🍽️ Introduction: When Gecko Feeding Stops

Geckos are known for their healthy appetites and insect-chomping excitement. So, if your pet suddenly refuses to eat, it’s natural to worry.

In this guide, we’ll explore why your gecko won’t eat, what it might mean, and how to fix it quickly and safely.

❓ Is It Normal for a Gecko to Skip Meals?

Yes—sometimes. Occasional meal skipping is common during:

• Shedding periods

• Seasonal changes (especially winter)

• Minor habitat adjustments

• Breeding cycles

But if your gecko hasn’t eaten in more than 5–7 days, it’s time to investigate.

🛑 Top 8 Reasons Why Your Gecko Won’t Eat

Here are the most common culprits:

1. Shedding Cycle

Geckos often lose their appetite 1–2 days before and after shedding. You may also notice:

• Cloudy or dull skin

• Hiding behavior

• Rubbing against objects

✅ What to do:

• Increase humidity slightly (60–70%)

• Provide moist hide

• Avoid handling during shedding

2. Improper Temperatures

If the enclosure is too cold or too hot, digestion slows down or stops.

✅ What to do:

• Check all zones with digital thermometers

• Adjust heat mat or basking lamp

• Avoid using heat rocks (can burn)

3. Stress From Environment Changes

Recent changes that cause stress:

• New tank setup

• Relocation or travel

• New pets or noise nearby

• Excessive handling

✅ What to do:

• Give 3–5 days of low-interaction rest

• Add more hides and foliage

• Maintain a consistent light/dark cycle

4. Incorrect Feeding Routine

Feeding issues may stem from:

• Offering the same food too often

• Feeding at the wrong time (too cold)

• Using oversized insects

✅ What to do:

• Feed during warm active hours

• Rotate feeders (crickets, dubia, worms)

• Size = no larger than the space between gecko’s eyes

5. Impaction (Digestive Blockage)

Caused by:

• Loose substrate (sand, bark)

• Ingesting hard-shelled bugs

• Low basking temps

Signs:

• No poop

• Bloated belly

• Lethargy

✅ What to do:

• Switch to paper towel or reptile carpet

• Give warm belly soaks (15 mins/day)

• Contact a reptile vet ASAP

6. Mouth or Tongue Injury

Injuries from hard prey or enclosure decor may make eating painful.

✅ Check for:

• Drooling

• Swollen jaw

• Refusal to open mouth

🔍 If you suspect injury, consult an exotic vet immediately.

7. Parasites or Illness

Common in wild-caught or poorly sourced geckos.

Symptoms:

• Runny stool

• Rapid weight loss

• Sunken tail base

✅ What to do:

• Bring a fecal sample to a reptile vet

• Isolate gecko from others

• Follow vet-prescribed deworming or medication

8. Old Age or Brumation (Seasonal Slowdown)

Older geckos or those in colder climates may eat less in winter.

✅ What to do:

• Keep temps stable

• Monitor weight

• Reduce feeding frequency slightly

📉 If weight drops dramatically, seek vet help.

🛠️ How to Troubleshoot Gecko Appetite Loss

1. Record temperature, humidity, and light cycle

2. List all recent changes (tank, location, feeding)

3. Weigh your gecko every few days

4. Try new feeder insects (dubia, phoenix worms)

5. Offer insects dusted with calcium + vitamins

🏥 When to See a Reptile Vet

Contact a vet if:

• Gecko hasn’t eaten in 10+ days

• Rapid weight loss

• Signs of infection, parasites, or trauma

• Refuses favorite foods or water

• Shows bloated or sunken appearance

🔗 Helpful Guide: How to Find the Best Exotic Pet Vets Near You

❓ FAQs

Q: How long can a gecko go without eating?

Adults can go up to 10–14 days. Hatchlings need food every 2–3 days.

Q: What do I do if my gecko is shedding and not eating?

Increase humidity, provide a moist hide, and wait 2–3 days post-shed.

Q: Can cold temperatures cause loss of appetite?

Yes! Temps below 70°F slow digestion and metabolism drastically.

Q: What’s the best food to tempt a picky gecko?

Try waxworms or silkworms (sparingly). Live movement encourages feeding.

✅ Conclusion: Monitor, Adjust, Act Early

If you’re wondering why your gecko won’t eat, know that occasional appetite dips are normal—but persistent refusal requires attention.

Check their environment, eliminate stress, and adjust feeding habits. And when in doubt, consult a reptile-savvy veterinarian to keep your gecko safe and healthy.

🐾 Keep reading more helpful reptile guides at Rare Pet Haven