Health & Hygiene

A healthy, happy Gecko will be bright and active, but there are few things that as a Gecko keeper you need to be aware of to your pet's ongoing health.

Shedding is normal for Gecko and they will shed a lot of skin while they are growing, stabilizing when they reach adulthood to once a month. Once shed, skin should be removed from your Gecko's habitat daily.

However, if you notice discolouration or paleness in your Gecko's skin, it may indicate insufficient calcium or vitamin D3 in his diet.

Tail Loss

Geckos are fragile creatures, and as a method of defense and distraction when threatened or frightened, they will lose their tail. This is a sign of severe stress, and while your Gecko's tail will regrow [this takes up to four months], you need to try and prevent it from happening. Always handle your Gecko with care and if you notice signs of distress, try to calm them by separating him from other Geckos, or removing the distressor.

Impactation / Constipation

Vomiting, loss of appetite or a 'lumpy' stomach, are all indications that your Gecko is suffering from impactation which can lead to severe health problems. Caused by a number of different reasons, poor diet, lack of calcium, dehydration or over feeding. If you notice any of these symptoms, a change in diet or care routine may be what is necessary, although medical attention may also be recommended. If you have any questions or concerns about your Gecko's health, speak with your Petmania Pet Care Advisor and we can help you determine the best course of action. 

Cleaning the Habitat

Like any pet, regular cleaning of your pet's home will be required to maintain its ongoing health. Establishing a regular routine will help you to keep your Gecko's vivarium clean and disease free.

Daily

• Remove waste, debris, dead feeder insects, and shed skin from the vivarium
• Change water, providing clean fresh water for your Gecko
• Remove and clean any objects that have fecal matter on them

Weekly

• Clean and disinfect enclosure thoroughly
• Clean and disinfect interior items such as decorations, feeding and watering items
• Replace soiled substrate.

As Leopard Geckos are nocturnal, the best time to clean the enclosure is at dusk or during the early morning hours. This will prevent you from disturbing their natural sleep cycles and causing unnecessary stress.

Hygiene

Hand washing is very important when owning any reptile. Washing your hands before and after handling your Gecko will help keep you and your pet healthy. If you wash your hands before handling you reduce the risk of passing anything on to your Gecko.

Salmonella

As with all reptiles, Geckos have the potential to carry pathogens such as salmonella so children under five should not handle them and hands should be thoroughly washed before and after handling.

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