Leopard Gecko Food and Diet Advice

Leopard Geckos are known for their big appetites and will eagerly eat any insect that moves in front of them. However, it is important to provide them with the right type and amount of food to ensure their health and well-being. In this article, we will discuss the best diet for Leopard Geckos and provide advice on feeding frequency, portion size, and potential hazards to avoid.

What do Leopard Geckos eat?

The foundation of a Leopard Gecko’s diet consists of insects. The recommended insects to feed your Leopard Gecko include crickets and mealworms. These insects provide the necessary nutrients for Leopard Geckos and are widely available. Other suitable options include waxworms, butterworms, silkworms, tomato hornworms, beetles, sow bugs, and cockroaches.

It is important to note that waxworms and superworms should be fed sparingly as they are high in fat. Too many of these treats may lead to obesity in your gecko, so offering them once a week should be sufficient. Butterworms should also be given infrequently as they contain bad calcium and some geckos can become addicted to them, refusing all other food options.

Ensure that the insects you feed your Leopard Gecko are live and not dead or dried. Live insects provide more nutritional value and stimulate the hunting instincts of your gecko. Avoid feeding your gecko any fruits or vegetables, as their digestive systems are not designed to process plant matter.

Size of food for Leopard Geckos

The size of the food you offer your Leopard Gecko should be appropriate for its size. Hatchlings and younger geckos can be fed smaller insects, such as pinhead crickets or small mealworms. As they grow, you can gradually increase the size of the insects to match their appetite and abilities. Adult Leopard Geckos can consume larger insects, but always ensure they are not too big to pose a choking hazard.

How often do Leopard Geckos eat?

Leopard Geckos are nocturnal creatures, which means they are most active during the night. In the wild, they typically hunt and eat once every two to three days. Therefore, feeding them every other day or every third day is a good feeding schedule to follow.

However, it is important to observe your gecko’s appetite and adjust the feeding frequency accordingly. Some geckos may have a more voracious appetite and can be fed slightly more often, while others may eat less frequently. It is essential to strike a balance and avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to obesity and other health issues.

How much do Leopard Geckos eat?

The amount of food you provide for your Leopard Gecko should also be carefully monitored. The general rule of thumb is to offer as much food as your gecko can consume in about 15 to 20 minutes. This ensures that they are adequately nourished without overeating.

If you notice that your gecko consistently leaves food uneaten or seems disinterested in eating, reduce the amount of food offered. On the other hand, if your gecko quickly devours its food and appears hungry, you can slightly increase the portion size. Regularly assessing the appetite and body condition of your leopard gecko will help you determine the appropriate amount of food to offer.

Can Leopard Geckos eat fruit and vegetables?

Leopard Geckos are carnivores and their digestive systems are designed to process a diet primarily composed of insects. They do not require fruits or vegetables in their diet, and feeding them plant matter can cause digestive problems. Stick to providing a variety of live insects as the main source of nutrition for your gecko.

What food is toxic to Leopard Geckos?

As with any pet, there are certain foods that are toxic or harmful to Leopard Geckos and should be avoided at all costs. Some common examples include:

– Insects exposed to pesticides or chemicals: These can be toxic to your gecko, so it is important to source live insects from reliable suppliers and avoid spraying them with any harmful substances.
– Toxic plants: Certain plants, such as ivy or lilies, can be toxic to Leopard Geckos if ingested. Ensure that there are no toxic plants in their enclosure or surroundings.
– Wild-caught insects: Insects collected from the wild may carry parasites or diseases that can harm your gecko. It is safer to purchase captive-bred insects from reputable suppliers.

My Leopard Gecko is not eating

If your Leopard Gecko is not eating, it may be an indication of an underlying health issue or stress. There are several factors that could cause a loss of appetite in geckos, including improper husbandry, temperature fluctuations, or a recent change in environment.

Assess the conditions in your gecko’s enclosure to ensure they are optimal. Check the temperature gradient, humidity levels, and ensure they have a hiding place and well-balanced lighting. If the problem persists, it is recommended to seek veterinary advice to rule out any underlying health issues.

Gut loading insects

Gut loading refers to the process of feeding the insects you offer to your Leopard Gecko a nutritious diet before feeding them to your gecko. This ensures that the insects are packed with beneficial nutrients that are then transferred to your gecko when they consume them.

To gut load insects, feed them high-quality, nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables, fruits, and specialized commercial gut loading diets. This improves the nutritional value of the insects and subsequently enhances the health of your gecko.

Dusting Leopard Gecko food with vitamins and minerals

In addition to gut loading, dusting your Leopard Gecko’s food with a calcium and vitamin supplement is important to ensure they receive essential nutrients. Calcium is crucial for the development and maintenance of strong bones and proper muscle function in geckos.

There are various reptile-specific calcium and vitamin supplements available on the market. These supplements can be lightly dusted onto the insects before feeding them to your gecko. Follow the recommended dosage instructions on the supplement packaging to ensure you are providing the correct amount of nutrients.

Conclusion

Providing a balanced diet is essential for maintaining the health and longevity of your Leopard Gecko. Remember to offer a variety of live insects, appropriately sized for your gecko’s age and size. Avoid feeding fruit, vegetables, and toxic foods, and monitor your gecko’s appetite and body condition to adjust feeding frequency and portion sizes accordingly. Additionally, gut loading insects and dusting food with supplements will help ensure your gecko receives the necessary vitamins and minerals for optimal health. By following these guidelines, you can provide the best diet for your Leopard Gecko and help them thrive in captivity.