Crested Gecko Common Health Issues: Prevention & Treatment

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more

You're a dedicated crested gecko keeper, and you want to ensure your gecko stays healthy and happy. But sometimes, even the best care can lead to health issues. Here's how to identify and address them.

Quick Answer: Common health issues in crested geckos include weak bones, respiratory infections, and tummy problems. Prevent these by maintaining proper humidity, nutrition, and temperature, and seek vet care if symptoms persist.

What Are the Most Common Health Issues in Crested Geckos?

The most common health issues in crested geckos are weak bones, respiratory infections, and tummy problems. These can be caused by improper care, poor nutrition, or environmental factors. Understanding the causes and symptoms will help you keep your gecko healthy.

Weak Bones (MBD)

Weak bones, or metabolic bone disease (MBD), are serious conditions caused by a lack of calcium and vitamin D3. Symptoms include swollen limbs, a kinked tail, and trouble moving. Prevention is key and involves proper UVB lighting and a balanced diet.

• UVB Lighting: Crested geckos need 10-12 hours of UVB exposure daily to make vitamin D3, which helps absorb calcium.
• Calcium Supplements: Dust their food with calcium powder at least twice a week to make sure they get enough calcium.

Pro Tip: Use a UVB bulb with a 5-10% intensity to mimic natural sunlight. The Exo Terra Reptile UVB 100 is a great choice for this.

Respiratory Infections

Respiratory infections can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. They are often caused by high humidity or cold temperatures. Symptoms include sneezing, wheezing, and discharge from the nose or mouth.

• Humidity Control: Keep the humidity in the enclosure at 50-70%. Use a hygrometer to monitor and a digital thermometer to check temperatures of 72-82°F.
• Heating Solutions: If your house is cold in winter, consider a ceramic heat emitter or a heat mat to keep the enclosure warm.

Pro Tip: A ReptiGuard Ceramic Heat Emitter can help maintain the right temperature without light, which is ideal for night-time heating.

Tummy Problems

Tummy issues can range from mild indigestion to severe blockages. These are often caused by overfeeding, feeding the wrong foods, or parasites. Symptoms include loss of appetite, lethargy, and abnormal droppings.

• Feeding: Feed your gecko a mix of commercial gecko food and insects. Crested Gecko Diet (CGD) is a staple and should be supplemented with crickets and mealworms.
• Parasite Control: Regularly check for parasites by examining droppings and scheduling routine vet check-ups.

Pro Tip: Repashy Crested Gecko Diet (CGD) is a reliable choice for commercial food, and Zoo Med Mealworms are a good insect option.

How to Identify Health Issues in Your Crested Gecko

Early identification is crucial for effective treatment. Here are some signs to watch for that may indicate a health problem in your crested gecko.

Physical Changes

Look for any unusual physical changes. Swollen limbs, a kinked tail, or difficulty moving can indicate weak bones. Abnormal swelling in the belly may suggest a blockage or reproductive issues.

• Swollen Limbs: Overgrown or swollen limbs are a clear sign of weak bones. Immediate action is needed.
• Kinked Tail: A tail that's bent or kinked is another symptom of weak bones.
• Belly Swelling: This can indicate impaction or egg-binding. See a vet immediately.

Behavioral Changes

Behavioral changes can also signal health issues. A gecko that’s less active, won’t eat, or has trouble breathing needs attention.

• Lethargy: If your gecko is less active than usual, it could be due to infection or stress.
• Not Eating: This can be a sign of tummy issues or stress. Monitor closely and consult a vet if it persists.
• Difficulty Breathing: Wheezing or labored breathing often indicates a respiratory infection.

Tips for Preventing Common Health Issues in Crested Geckos

Prevention is better than cure. By providing the right environment and diet, you can significantly reduce the risk of health problems in your gecko.

Maintain Proper Humidity and Temperature

Crested geckos need a specific range of humidity and temperature to thrive. Here’s how to get it right.

1. Humidity: Keep the enclosure at 50-70% humidity. Use a hygrometer to monitor.
2. Temperature: Ensure the temperature is between 72-82°F. Use a digital thermometer to check.

Proper Diet

A balanced diet is essential to prevent health issues. Feed your gecko the right mix of commercial and live food.

• Commercial Food: Crested Gecko Diet (CGD) is a staple. It's easy to prepare and provides balanced nutrition.
• Live Food: Supplement with crickets and mealworms to give your gecko variety and live prey.

Regular Vet Check-Ups

Regular vet visits can catch health issues early. Schedule check-ups at least once a year.

• Parasite Testing: Ask your vet to check for parasites during routine visits.
• Health Assessments: Blood tests can help identify nutritional deficiencies and other health concerns.

Keeping Your Crested Gecko Healthy

By following these tips, you can ensure your gecko stays healthy and happy. Remember, early detection and proper care are key.

More Resources

For more detailed information, check out our guide on setting up a crested gecko enclosure and tips for feeding your crested gecko.

Ready to shop for the best supplies for your crested gecko? Shop now for UVB bulbs, calcium supplements, and insects and keep your gecko healthy and happy!