How to Care for Your Pet Gecko

Geckos are captivating reptiles that make excellent pets for both novice and experienced herpetologists. Their manageable size, diverse species, and intriguing behaviors contribute to their popularity. However, providing proper care is essential to ensure their health and longevity. This guide offers comprehensive information on caring for your pet gecko, focusing on habitat setup, diet, handling, and health considerations.

Choosing the Right Gecko Species

Before bringing a gecko home, it’s crucial to select a species that aligns with your experience level and care capabilities. Common pet gecko species include:

Leopard Gecko: Ideal for beginners due to their docile nature and straightforward care requirements.
Crested Gecko: Known for their unique appearance and ease of care; they thrive in moderate humidity.
Tokay Gecko: Vibrant and larger in size, but can be aggressive; better suited for experienced keepers.
House Gecko: Small and active, requiring a vertical space to accommodate their climbing habits.

Each species has specific needs, so research thoroughly to ensure you can meet their requirements.

Setting Up the Ideal Habitat

Creating a suitable environment is crucial for your gecko’s well-being.

Enclosure

Size: A 20-gallon tank is sufficient for a single adult leopard gecko. For arboreal species like crested or tokay geckos, a taller enclosure is preferable.
Substrate: Use reptile carpet, paper towels, or tile for leopard geckos to prevent impaction. Avoid loose substrates like sand. For species requiring higher humidity, coconut fiber or sphagnum moss can be appropriate.
Hides: Provide at least two hiding spots—one on the warm side and one on the cool side of the tank. A moist hide is also essential to aid in shedding.

Temperature and Lighting

Temperature Gradient: Maintain a gradient with a warm side at 88–92°F and a cool side at 75–85°F.
Heating: Use an under-tank heater or heat lamp to achieve the desired temperatures. Avoid heat rocks as they can cause burns.
Lighting: While leopard geckos are nocturnal and don’t require UVB lighting, providing a light cycle of 12 hours light and 12 hours dark helps regulate their natural rhythms.

Humidity

Leopard Geckos: Require low humidity levels, around 30–40%. A moist hide will suffice for their shedding needs.
Crested and Tokay Geckos: Need higher humidity levels, between 60–80%. Mist the enclosure daily to maintain appropriate humidity.

Feeding Your Gecko

A balanced diet is vital for your gecko’s health.

Diet

Leopard Geckos: Insectivores that thrive on a diet of crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches. Offer waxworms and superworms sparingly due to their high-fat content.
Crested Geckos: Omnivores that enjoy a mix of insects and fruit-based diets. Commercial crested gecko diets are available and should be supplemented with occasional live insects.
Tokay Geckos: Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of insects and occasionally small rodents.

For more detailed information on gecko diets, refer to our article: What Do Geckos Eat?

Feeding Schedule

Juveniles: Feed daily.
Adults: Feed every other day or 3–4 times a week, depending on the species and individual needs.

Supplements

Dust insects with calcium powder at every feeding and a multivitamin supplement once a week to prevent nutritional deficiencies.

Handling and Socialization

Leopard Geckos: Generally tolerant of handling. Start with short sessions to build trust.
Crested Geckos: Can be handled gently but may be jumpy. Handle over a soft surface to prevent injury from falls.
Tokay Geckos: Typically not recommended for handling due to their aggressive nature.

Always wash your hands before and after handling to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Health and Maintenance

Regular maintenance and observation are key to a healthy gecko.

Cleaning: Spot-clean the enclosure daily and perform a thorough cleaning monthly.
Shedding: Ensure your gecko has a moist hide to aid in shedding. Retained shed, especially around toes, can lead to complications.
Health Checks: Monitor for signs of illness, such as lethargy, lack of appetite, or abnormal feces. Consult a reptile veterinarian if any issues arise.

Common Health Issues

Metabolic Bone Disease: Caused by calcium deficiency; preventable with proper supplementation.
Impaction: Resulting from ingesting loose substrate or oversized prey; use appropriate substrate and prey size.
Respiratory Infections: Often due to incorrect humidity or temperature; maintain proper environmental conditions.

Final Thoughts

Caring for a pet gecko can be a rewarding experience when their specific needs are met. By providing an appropriate habitat, balanced diet, and regular health monitoring, you can ensure your gecko thrives in its new home. Always continue learning and consult reputable sources or professionals to stay informed about best practices in gecko care.