Did you know that today, September 1st, is Gecko Day? These adorable lizards are winning lots of people over! However, these guys do have some pretty unique needs … especially when it comes to diet. A Crown Point, IN vet discusses feeding your tiny dinosaur in this article.
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Bugs are going to be the main course here. Some good options are crickets, hornworms, silkworms, black soldier fly larvae, discoid or Dubia roaches, and mealworms. You should always give your pet live bugs. Variety is also important. Do not offer wild bugs: these can be carrying parasites or diseases, and can make your gecko very sick. Also, be sure to remove any insects that your pet hasn’t eaten after about 15 minutes.
Portions
As far as portions go, you can generally offer 2 bugs per inch of gecko. However, portion sizes and feeding schedules will change as your reptilian buddy grows. Ask your vet for specific advice.
Supplements
Calcium and Vitamin D3 are crucial to leopard geckos: if your tiny dinosaur becomes deficient, they could develop MBD, or Metabolic Bone Disease, a debilitating bone disease. Your pet lizard will also need Vitamin A.
Gutloading
You’ll also need to feed the creepy-crawlies, and dust them with a nutritional powder. This is known as gutloading, and it should happen at least 24 hours before the bugs become dinner. Ask your vet for more information.
Water
Fresh water is a must. Use tap, spring, or filtered water. Avoid distilled and softened water. You can give your reptilian friend a bowl of water. Just make sure it’s shallow enough to negate the risk of drowning.
Treats
Like other pets, leopard geckos enjoy treats. Hand feeding (or tweezer feeding, technically) can be great for bonding. Use fatty worms, like waxworms, superworms, and butterworms, for special snacks. Just don’t go overboard. Not only can you end up with a fat lizard, your gecko may also decide he doesn’t want to eat anything else!
Note
It’s not uncommon for leopard geckos to stop eating. This may continue for weeks or even months. As long as your pet doesn’t lose much weight, it should be fine, but it’s a good idea to check with your vet. If you see other signs that could indicate illness, definitely give us a call!
As your Crown Point, IN pet clinic, we’re here for you. Call us anytime!
