If you're reading this, you're probably wondering, "How often should I feed my crested gecko?" It's a common question among gecko enthusiasts, especially for those who want to ensure their little reptile friends thrive. Feeding your crested gecko the right way is key to their health, happiness, and longevity. So, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of feeding schedules, portion sizes, and the best practices for your beloved crestie.

Why Feeding Frequency Matters

Feeding your crested gecko isn't just about tossing food in their enclosure—it's about providing a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, while underfeeding might cause malnutrition. Striking the right balance is essential for your gecko’s health.

How Often Should You Feed Your Crested Gecko?

Hatchlings (0-6 months)

Hatchlings are in a rapid growth phase and need to be fed more frequently. Here’s what you should do:

• Feeding Frequency: Daily
• What to Feed: A balanced diet of commercial gecko diet (like Pangea or Repashy) and occasional live insects such as small crickets or fruit flies.

Juveniles (6-18 months)

Juvenile crested geckos are still growing but at a slower rate.

• Feeding Frequency: Every other day
• What to Feed: Continue with a mix of commercial diet and live insects. This is the time to introduce variety in their diet, ensuring they get all the essential nutrients.

Adults (18 months and older)

Adult geckos require less frequent feeding as their growth slows.

• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times a week
• What to Feed: A well-rounded commercial diet with occasional insects for enrichment. Treats like mashed fruits can be offered but in moderation.

Feeding Tips for Happy, Healthy Geckos

1. Stick to a Schedule

Consistency is key. Feeding your gecko at the same time each day helps establish a routine, which can reduce stress.

2. Use the Right Tools

Feeding can get messy, but not with the Geckopia Bowl. It’s designed to separate different food types and keep things clean and organized. Plus, it's easy to clean and blends seamlessly into any enclosure setup.

3. Create an Enriching Environment

Enrichment is crucial for mental and physical health. The Flex Bridge not only provides an exercise spot but also encourages natural feeding behaviors.

4. Monitor Their Weight

Regularly weigh your gecko to ensure they’re growing at a healthy rate. Significant weight changes could signal a need for dietary adjustments.

Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overfeeding on Insects

While insects are a great source of protein, too many can cause obesity. Remember, a balanced diet is key.

2. Ignoring Hydration

Crested geckos get most of their hydration from their food, but you should also provide fresh water. A shallow dish works best.

3. Not Gut-Loading Insects

If you’re feeding live insects, make sure to gut-load them with nutritious foods 24 hours before feeding your gecko. This ensures your gecko gets the most out of their meal.

Meet Charlie the Crested Gecko

Charlie’s owner, Sarah, was struggling with feeding schedules. Charlie was either not eating enough or leaving too much food uneaten. After switching to the Geckopia Bowl and following a structured feeding schedule, Sarah noticed a significant improvement. Charlie now eats regularly, stays hydrated, and is more active!

Feeding your crested gecko the right way is a journey, and we're here to help you every step of the way. Remember, a happy gecko is a healthy gecko! 

How do you manage your gecko’s feeding schedule? Have any tips or tricks? Share them in the comments below!