The Ultimate Guide to Gecko Health

Geckos are fascinating and resilient creatures, but just like any pet, they require attentive care to stay healthy and thrive. Whether you’re caring for a Leopard Gecko, Crested Gecko, or any of the many gecko species, understanding their health needs is essential to providing a safe, comfortable, and enriching environment.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your gecko in top condition—from signs of illness and nutrition tips to ideal habitat setup and vet care.

🧠 Understanding Gecko Biology

Before diving into care, it helps to understand what makes geckos unique:

Ectothermic: Geckos rely on external heat sources to regulate body temperature.
Insectivores: Most geckos eat live insects as their primary food source.
Tail Storage: Their tails store fat and nutrients, which can be a sign of overall health.

🏡 Habitat: The Foundation of Health

✔️ Ideal Enclosure Conditions

A well-maintained habitat helps prevent stress and disease.

Tank Size: Minimum 10–20 gallons per gecko (species-dependent)
Substrate: Use safe options like reptile carpet, tile, or paper towels. Avoid loose substrates like sand that can cause impaction.
Temperature Gradient: Provide a warm side (88–92°F) and a cool side (72–75°F)
Humidity: Varies by species; Leopard Geckos (30–40%), Crested Geckos (50–70%)
Lighting: Not all geckos need UVB, but a light cycle (12 hours light/dark) helps regulate behavior and metabolism

🍽️ Nutrition: Feeding for Vitality

🦗 Recommended Foods

Staples: Crickets, mealworms, dubia roaches
Treats: Waxworms, hornworms, silkworms
For Frugivores (like Crested Geckos): Commercial fruit-based gecko diets + occasional fruit puree

💊 Supplementation

Calcium: Dust insects 3–4 times/week
Vitamin D3: 1–2 times/week (especially important if UVB light is absent)
Multivitamin: Once a week to fill dietary gaps

🕓 Feeding Schedule

Juveniles: Daily
Adults: 3–4 times a week
Always remove uneaten food after feeding

🩺 Common Gecko Health Issues

⚠️ Signs of Illness

Lethargy or unresponsiveness
Refusing food for more than a week
Rapid weight loss or thin tail
Labored breathing or wheezing
Retained shed (especially on toes or eyes)
Cloudy or sunken eyes
Discoloration or swelling of the mouth or belly

🧪 Common Conditions

Condition	Cause	Prevention
Impaction	Ingested substrate	Use safe flooring, avoid loose sand
Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)	Calcium/Vitamin D3 deficiency	Regular supplementation
Respiratory Infection	Cold/humid conditions	Proper temperature & humidity
Parasites	Contaminated food or poor hygiene	Quarantine new pets, clean enclosure regularly
Mouth Rot	Bacterial infection	Clean tank, vet care if symptoms appear

🧼 Hygiene and Maintenance

Spot Clean Daily: Remove waste and uneaten food
Full Clean Weekly: Replace substrate, sanitize tank decor
Water: Always provide clean, fresh water (even if they rarely drink)

👩‍⚕️ When to See a Vet

You should consult a reptile-experienced veterinarian if:

Your gecko refuses food for 10+ days
There’s visible swelling, bleeding, or abnormal shedding
You suspect parasites or MBD
They experience a sudden change in behavior or weight

Annual check-ups can also help catch issues early.

🧍 Handling and Behavior

💡 Tips for Healthy Interaction

Always handle gently, especially around the tail
Let them walk across your hand rather than grabbing them
Limit handling to 5–10 minutes, especially for new or young geckos
Signs of stress: squeaking, tail twitching, or trying to flee

✅ Gecko Health Checklist

📝 Final Thoughts

Geckos may be low-maintenance compared to some pets, but they are not no-maintenance. Proper habitat, diet, and regular observation are key to a long, healthy life. With good care, many gecko species can live 10 to 20 years, becoming loyal companions and fascinating creatures to watch.

Invest time in understanding your gecko’s needs—it’s the best way to ensure a vibrant, happy reptile and peace of mind for you as an owner.