🐾 Introduction: The Worry of a Gecko That Won’t Eat

Geckos are among the most popular reptiles kept as pets, especially species like the Leopard Gecko and Crested Gecko. But nothing causes concern faster than when your gecko suddenly stops eating. You’re left asking, “Why won’t my gecko eat?”

This guide explores the top reasons why your gecko won’t eat, offers actionable solutions, and helps you decide when it’s time to see a vet.

⏱️ Normal Feeding Patterns: What to Expect

Before you panic, ask yourself: Is your gecko truly refusing food, or just following a normal cycle?

Typical Gecko Feeding Schedule:

• Juveniles: Daily

• Adults: Every 2–3 days

• During shedding/brumation: May stop eating temporarily

Appetite naturally fluctuates, but long-term refusal (7+ days) is cause for concern.

❗ Common Causes: Why Your Gecko Won’t Eat

🧥 1. Shedding

Geckos often stop eating during shedding. Their energy is focused on skin renewal, and they may feel vulnerable or irritable.

What to do:

• Increase humidity slightly

• Do not handle during shedding

• Provide rough surfaces for skin removal

😰 2. Stress

Changes in environment, loud noises, frequent handling, or new tank mates can all stress your gecko.

Signs of stress:

• Hiding excessively

• Tail twitching

• Loss of color or dull skin

What to do:

• Keep the enclosure calm and quiet

• Limit handling

• Add more hides

🌡️ 3. Incorrect Temperatures

Geckos rely on external heat to digest food. If the enclosure is too cold, digestion slows and appetite drops.

Ideal Leopard Gecko Temps:

• Warm side: 88–92°F (31–33°C)

• Cool side: 75–80°F (24–27°C)

Fix it:

• Use an under-tank heater or ceramic bulb

• Check with a digital thermometer

💩 4. Impaction

Impaction occurs when your gecko ingests something it can’t pass—like sand, wood chips, or large insects.

Symptoms:

• No bowel movement

• Swollen belly

• Lethargy

Solutions:

• Soak in warm water

• Gently massage belly

• Switch to paper towel or tile substrate

🔗 Related: Safe Substrates for Reptiles – Avoiding Impaction

🦠 5. Illness or Parasites

Parasites like pinworms or cryptosporidium can cause appetite loss.

Signs:

• Runny or smelly poop

• Weight loss

• Weakness

What to do:

• Collect stool sample

• Visit an exotic vet

• Deworming treatment if needed

🍽️ 6. Poor Diet or Insect Variety

Geckos get bored or nutrient deficient if fed only one type of feeder insect.

Best Diet Mix:

• Gut-loaded crickets

• Dubia roaches

• Mealworms

• Waxworms (as treats only)

Dust all insects with calcium + D3 supplement at least 3x per week.

🏠 7. New Environment

Just brought your gecko home? It may need time to settle in.

• Give 5–7 days without handling

• Avoid enclosure changes

• Keep lights on a natural cycle

❄️ 8. Breeding Season or Brumation

Some adult geckos naturally reduce food intake during breeding or winter slowdown.

Breeding signs:

• Increased activity, digging, tail shaking

• Weight loss in males

Brumation signs:

• Lethargy

• Cooler ambient temps

🛠️ Step-by-Step Solutions to Try

📝 Keep a feeding and poop log to track changes.

🩺 When to See a Vet

• No eating for more than 10–14 days

• Rapid weight loss

• Black spots, discharge, or open wounds

• Bloody or runny stool

• Visible bones or “sunken” look

Find a certified exotic vet experienced with reptiles.

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

🛡️ Prevention Tips

• Maintain proper heat gradients

• Offer varied feeders with supplementation

• Clean enclosure weekly

• Handle only when relaxed

• Quarantine new pets

❓ FAQs – Why Your Gecko Won’t Eat

Is it normal for geckos to skip a few meals?

Yes, especially during shedding or brumation.

How long can a gecko go without eating?

Adults: up to 2 weeks. Juveniles: only a few days before needing intervention.

Can lighting affect appetite?

Yes! UVB exposure and light-dark cycles regulate feeding and activity.

Do female geckos stop eating before laying eggs?

Yes, gravid females may lose interest in food. Provide a lay box and reduce stress.

✅ Conclusion: Get Your Gecko Eating Again

If you’ve been wondering why your gecko won’t eat, you now have a clear roadmap to diagnose and fix the issue. Most problems are manageable with adjustments to heat, diet, and environment. Others may require a vet’s help—but knowing what to look for is your first defense.

🦎 For more reptile care tips and troubleshooting guides, visit Rare Pet Haven