As gecko parents, you know how important it is to give your little reptile the best care possible, and that includes the treats you offer. But not all treats are created equal! Some might seem like a fun snack, but they can cause more harm than good. So, what should you feed your gecko? And what should you absolutely avoid? Let’s break down the healthy options, the dangerous ones, and everything in between.

What to Offer: Healthy Gecko Treats

When it comes to geckos, variety is key. A well-balanced diet of feeders and treats ensures they get the nutrients they need for strong bones, healthy skin, and plenty of energy. Here are some top options you can safely offer:

1. Live Feeder Insects

Live insects are a gecko's natural diet, making them a must-have for healthy snacking. Offer a variety of gut-loaded feeders such as:

• Crickets: Packed with protein and easy to digest.
• Dubia Roaches: High in calcium and low in fat.
• Mealworms: A great protein source but should be given in moderation as they are higher in fat.

2. Hornworms

Hornworms are another excellent treat. These soft-bodied worms are high in moisture and low in fat, providing your gecko with hydration and a good source of protein. Plus, they’re just plain fun to watch your gecko chase after!

3. Superworms Superworms are a great occasional treat, as they are rich in protein and calcium. However, be mindful to not overfeed them, as their fat content can be on the higher side.

4. Fruits (Occasional) While geckos are primarily insectivores, some species, like the crested gecko, enjoy an occasional sweet fruit treat. Safe options include:

• Bananas: Full of potassium.
• Mango: Packed with vitamins.
• Papaya: Rich in fiber and enzymes. Just make sure to remove the skin and offer fruits in small amounts, as too much sugar can lead to weight gain and digestive problems.

5. Vegetables (Only for Some Species) For those with species that are omnivores, veggies can be a great addition. Try offering finely chopped:

• Carrots
• Zucchini
• Collard greens These provide extra vitamins and minerals and support overall health.

What to Avoid: Harmful Treats for Your Gecko

While it’s tempting to share food with your gecko, there are some common treats that can cause serious health problems. Avoid feeding your gecko the following:

1. Insects Caught in the Wild Wild-caught insects may carry parasites, pesticides, or other contaminants that can make your gecko sick. Always use farmed, gut-loaded insects to ensure your gecko's safety.

2. Chocolate and Sugary Treats It might sound odd, but never give your gecko chocolate or any sweets. Chocolates contain theobromine, which is toxic to reptiles, and excessive sugar can lead to obesity and metabolic issues.

3. Dairy Products Many people assume reptiles can digest dairy, but this is a big no-no! Dairy can cause digestive issues and upset your gecko’s stomach. Stick to insects and fruits they are naturally adapted to digest.

4. Processed Foods Avoid feeding your gecko any processed or human foods, such as bread, chips, or anything with added preservatives. These can cause digestive issues and fail to provide the necessary nutrients.

5. Citrus Fruits While fruits can be a healthy snack, citrus fruits like oranges or lemons are too acidic for geckos. They can cause mouth sores and digestive discomfort.

Tips for Offering Healthy Treats

• Gut-load your feeders: Before feeding insects to your gecko, make sure they’ve been gut-loaded with nutritious food (like vegetables or fruit). This way, your gecko gets the added nutrients in the insects they consume.
• Dust with supplements: Use calcium or vitamin D3 powder to dust your feeders, especially for geckos that live in low-light environments or indoor enclosures.
• Portion control: Treats should never replace a gecko’s main diet of live insects or pellets. Offer them in moderation to keep your gecko happy and healthy.

The Best Feeders for Your Gecko: Why We Recommend Ours!

Looking for top-notch feeders for your gecko? Our premium live feeders, such as Dubia Roaches and Hornworms, are not only nutrient-rich but also farmed to ensure safety and quality. We carefully gut-load each feeder to provide the best nutrition possible for your gecko. Plus, all our feeders are delivered fresh and ready to delight your gecko.

Ready to treat your gecko to the healthiest snacks around? Explore our collection of live feeders and get your gecko the best treats they deserve. Check out our online store today!