Leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) are one of the most popular reptiles to keep as pets. Their calm personalities, low-maintenance care, and unique appearance make them a great choice for reptile enthusiasts of all experience levels. But even though they’re relatively hardy, these little creatures still require proper care and attention when it comes to their health.
Medical treatment isn’t something most people think about until a problem arises. But just like any other pet, regular check-ups, proper feeding, and being aware of common health issues are essential to keeping your gecko in tip-top shape. This guide will help you understand the medical care leopard geckos need, from prevention to treatment, so you can provide the best possible care for your pet.
1. Why is Health Care Important for Leopard Geckos?
Leopard geckos are generally known for being tough reptiles, but they still face a variety of health challenges. Just because they don’t require constant attention like dogs or cats doesn’t mean they can be left to their own devices. The most common medical issues that affect them—such as metabolic bone disease (MBD), impaction, parasites, and infections—are often preventable with good care and regular maintenance.
By taking the right steps early on, you can prevent serious health issues before they develop and catch problems quickly if they do occur. Keeping your leopard gecko healthy isn’t just about feeding them the right food—it’s about providing the right environment, monitoring their behavior, and knowing when to call in a vet.
2. Common Health Issues in Leopard Geckos
While leopard geckos are generally low-maintenance, they can experience a number of health problems. Some of the most common issues include:
a. Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)
Metabolic Bone Disease is one of the most prevalent health issues in pet geckos. It’s caused by a deficiency in calcium or vitamin D3, which results in weakened bones and improper bone growth. Without proper calcium and UVB exposure, your gecko’s bones can become soft, brittle, and deformed.
Symptoms of MBD:
- Lethargy or weakness
- Difficulty moving or walking
- Swollen limbs or jaw
- Twitching or tremors
- Curved spine or deformed limbs
How to Prevent It:
- Ensure your gecko has access to UVB lighting for 10-12 hours a day. UVB light is essential for calcium absorption.
- Dust food items with calcium powder regularly, especially for younger geckos.
- Make sure the gecko has a proper calcium source—if needed, supplement their food with calcium without vitamin D3.
Treatment:
- If caught early, increasing UVB exposure and providing calcium supplements can help reverse early stages of MBD.
- In severe cases, a vet may administer calcium injections or oral calcium to help the gecko recover.
b. Impaction
Impaction occurs when a gecko ingests something that blocks its digestive system, often due to eating unsuitable substrates like sand, large food items, or other non-food materials. It’s a serious condition that can lead to long-term health issues or even death if not treated.
Symptoms of Impaction:
- Loss of appetite
- Swelling or bloating of the abdomen
- Difficulty moving or sluggishness
- Straining to defecate
How to Prevent It:
- Avoid using loose substrates (like sand) that your gecko might accidentally ingest.
- Offer appropriately-sized food—avoid feeding insects that are too large for your gecko to manage.
Treatment:
- If you notice signs of impaction, hydration is key—give your gecko a warm soak to help loosen up the blockage.
- In severe cases, your gecko may need to see a vet for more intensive treatment, including the possibility of surgery.
c. Parasites
Parasites, both internal (like worms) and external (like mites), can be common in geckos, especially if they’re not properly cared for or if their food source isn’t well-maintained.
Symptoms of Parasites:
- Weight loss despite eating
- Diarrhea or abnormal stools
- Visible mites or ticks on the skin
- Lethargy or lack of energy
How to Prevent It:
- Ensure you’re feeding your gecko clean, gut-loaded insects from a reputable source.
- Regularly clean the gecko’s habitat to prevent the buildup of parasites or bacteria.
- Consider quarantining new animals or feeder insects for a period before introducing them to your gecko’s environment.
Treatment:
- Internal parasites are treated with medications prescribed by a reptile veterinarian.
- External parasites like mites are usually treated with topical treatments or bath solutions that kill the parasites.
d. Respiratory Infections
Respiratory infections in leopard geckos are often caused by poor humidity, inadequate temperature control, or exposure to drafty areas. These infections can become serious quickly if left untreated.
Symptoms of Respiratory Infections:
- Wheezing, wheezing, or labored breathing
- Mucus discharge from the nose or mouth
- Open-mouth breathing or nasal discharge
- Lethargy and loss of appetite
How to Prevent It:
- Ensure the enclosure temperature is warm enough and that humidity is kept at appropriate levels (around 30-40%).
- Avoid drafts in your gecko’s habitat.
Treatment:
- Mild infections can sometimes be treated by adjusting the humidity and temperature in the tank.
- For more serious cases, antibiotics prescribed by a vet may be necessary.
e. Retained Shed
Leopard geckos periodically shed their skin, but sometimes they can have issues shedding, especially if their environment is too dry. Retained skin around the toes, eyes, or tail can cause discomfort and lead to infection if left untreated.
Symptoms of Retained Shed:
- Patches of shed skin still clinging to the gecko’s body (usually around toes, eyes, or tail)
- Dry, cracked skin
How to Prevent It:
- Keep the humidity in the enclosure at the right level (30-40%) and provide a humid hide for shedding.
- Offer water dishes large enough for your gecko to soak in if needed.
Treatment:
- Gently soak your gecko in warm water to help loosen the shed. After soaking, carefully remove any retained skin with a cotton swab or soft cloth.
- If skin remains stuck, consult a vet for assistance.
f. Obesity
Obesity is becoming more common in captive leopard geckos, often due to overfeeding or a diet high in fatty foods like waxworms.
Symptoms of Obesity:
- Enlarged abdomen or fat deposits around the tail
- Difficulty moving or climbing
- Sluggishness
How to Prevent It:
- Feed your gecko appropriately sized insects and limit high-fat foods like waxworms to occasional treats.
- Keep track of how much food you offer and adjust it based on your gecko’s age, size, and activity level.
Treatment:
- Reduce the number of feedings and focus on offering lower-fat insects like crickets or dubia roaches.
- Consult a vet if your gecko is severely overweight for additional treatment options.
3. When to Call the Vet: Recognizing the Signs
Knowing when to take your leopard gecko to the vet is key to managing their health. If your gecko shows any of the following symptoms, it’s time to consult a reptile-savvy veterinarian:
- Sudden weight loss or loss of appetite
- Difficulty shedding or retained skin
- Difficulty breathing or labored breathing
- Swelling, bloating, or other unusual physical signs
- Persistent lethargy or inability to move normally
- Any other significant changes in behavior
4. Preventative Care: Keeping Your Gecko Healthy
While it’s important to be prepared to treat your gecko when necessary, preventing problems before they start is the best way to ensure your pet stays healthy. Here are a few steps to help:
- Proper Habitat Setup: Keep the temperature and humidity levels appropriate, provide UVB lighting, and ensure your gecko has access to clean, safe bedding.
- Regular Diet: Feed a variety of insects (crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms), and dust them with calcium and multivitamin supplements as needed.
- Hydration: Make sure fresh water is always available and offer a humid hide to aid shedding.
Conclusion: Be the Best Gecko Parent You Can Be
Taking care of a leopard gecko is a rewarding experience, and it’s up to you to ensure that your pet remains healthy and happy. By staying proactive about their health, offering the right diet, and addressing medical issues early, you’ll give your gecko the best chance for a long, fulfilling life.
Don’t be afraid to consult a reptile vet when necessary, as they are the best resource for your gecko’s health needs. With the right care, your leopard gecko will thrive for years to come.
