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Leopard Gecko Not Eating

Leopard Gecko Eating Problems

One very common problem amongst Leopard geckos are eating problems. This can range from total anorexia (unwillingness or inability to eat), to poor appetite with chronic weight loss. The most common reason for Leopard gecko eating problems are most certainly husbandry related. Before attempting to go on the journey of venturing into diseases and other related problems, make sure to correct these first. The less common causes problems will be discussed on this page in some detail.

Leopard Gecko Not Eating

This is the most severe end of the not eating scale for Leopard geckos. Total anorexia can be very serious and should always be regarded as such. The most serious causes of anorexia are Leopard gecko diseases and Leopard gecko injuries. These might range from less serious disease i.e. Leopard gecko parasites to more serious conditions such as fall injuries, Cryptosporidium, impactions or bacterial infections.

Leopard Gecko Eating Difficulties

This group can be divided into two categories namely Leopard geckos eating very little (i.e. compared to its cage mate) and Leopard geckos eating various amounts of food, but performing poorly (i.e. not picking up weight).

Leopard geckos that eat poorly can be anything from mild diseases to various stress causing conditions. Common problems with poor eaters include incorrect sized crickets, mild Leopard gecko injuries with or without infections, normal or abnormal shedding, or incorrect supplementation. Make sure that all these aspects are ruled out before looking at more serious causes.

Leopard geckos that are eating, but are unable to pick up weight (mostly seen on their overall body condition score, especially on the tail) usually infested by Leopard gecko parasites.

Baby Leopard Gecko Eating Problems

When it comes to baby Leopard geckos there are a few important pointers to remember. Firstly, buy healthy, strong babies to prevent eating problems later on. Secondly, husbandry, husbandry, husbandry! When it comes to baby Leopard gecko eating problems, try to house babies individually, and never house adults / juveniles and babies together. Another important thing is to prevent handling as much as possible. Only handle these geckos when it is absolutely necessary! Last thing is to give the correct size prey. Only try to feed small sized crickets.

Leopard Gecko Eating Problem Stimulation

The correct husbandry, especially temperatures, can't be stressed enough. Other means of stimulation includes using the correct sized crickets (perfect size is the distance of the space between the eyes of the gecko), by giving plenty of crickets at feeding time (instead of one at a time), or sometimes by not giving a lot of crickets at feeding. Some Leopard geckos will be stimulated by plenty of crickets running around, while others can be stressed out by this. Less serious eating difficulties might also be stimulated by using a Leopard gecko food rock. or by feeding crickets using a set of foreceps.

Leopard Gecko Not Eating Treatment

First of all, always separate a sick Leopard gecko from healthy ones. It is important not to wait until its too late when it comes to Leopard gecko eating problems. Correct what needs to be corrected, but if the problem is not solved rather organize a consult with an experienced Leopard gecko veterinarian sooner than later. Total anorexia can be serious and should be dealt with ASAP.

Leopard gecko eating problems are treated by finding the underlying cause, which can sometimes be very difficult. Remember to include a fresh sealed stool sample with the vet visit. A lot of the cases will be treated for parasites. Stool might need to be send off to the laboratory to diagnose Cryptosporidium. Severe cases might need hospitalization. Supportive treatment includes parenteral fluids (drips) and force feeding.

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