As a proud gecko parent, there’s nothing more concerning than watching your crested gecko refuse food. These little reptiles are usually avid eaters, so when they start ignoring their meals, it can be a cause for worry. But don’t panic just yet! There are several reasons why your gecko might not be eating, and most of them are fixable with a little attention and care.

In this blog, we’ll explore common causes of appetite loss in crested geckos, how to identify and resolve the issue, and how you can keep your gecko healthy and happy with the right environment and nutrition. Plus, we'll introduce some must-have products that can help you improve your gecko’s quality of life. Let’s dive in!

Why Is My Crested Gecko Not Eating?

Before we get into the solutions, let’s break down some common reasons why your crested gecko may not be eating. Keep in mind that a healthy gecko should have a hearty appetite, so if this issue persists, it might be a sign that something’s off.

1. Temperature Issues

One of the most common reasons your crested gecko might not be eating is improper temperature in their enclosure. Crested geckos thrive in temperatures between 72-78°F during the day and slightly cooler at night. If their environment is too hot or too cold, it can affect their metabolism and appetite.

Solution:

• Make sure you’re using a reliable thermometer and check the temperature regularly.
• If it’s too hot, try lowering the heat by adjusting the lamp or repositioning the heat source.
• If it's too cold, consider adding a heat pad or ceramic heat emitter to maintain a steady temperature.

Pro Tip:
Ensure that the temperature gradient in your gecko's enclosure allows them to choose their preferred spot. A flexible, reliable solution like the Flex Bridge can provide a safe way for your gecko to navigate temperature zones, keeping them comfortable and happy.

2. Humidity Levels Are Off

Crested geckos need humidity levels between 50-70% for optimal health. Low humidity can lead to dehydration, making your gecko disinterested in food. Too much humidity, on the other hand, can promote bacterial growth, leading to potential health problems.

Solution:

• Use a hygrometer to monitor the humidity levels in the tank.
• If it’s too low, mist the tank daily and consider using a humidifier.
• If the humidity is too high, reduce misting and ensure proper ventilation.

3. Stress Factors

Stress is a major appetite killer for crested geckos. Many stressors can cause your gecko to stop eating, such as:

• A noisy environment
• Overhandling
• Tank mates (some geckos don’t like sharing their space)
• Poor tank setup

Solution:

• Keep your gecko’s enclosure in a quiet, low-traffic area of your home.
• Avoid handling your geckos too frequently, especially when they’re not feeling well.
• Ensure their tank is the right size and provides plenty of hiding spaces. A Flex Bridge can help create natural hiding spots and additional climbing areas to reduce stress.

Pro Tip:
Adding some decor that mimics your gecko’s natural habitat can be a great way to make them feel more secure and less stressed.

4. Inadequate Diet

Sometimes, the problem isn’t with the environment but with the food itself. Crested geckos are primarily insectivores but also enjoy a variety of fruits and nectar in their diet. If you’re only offering one type of food, your gecko might grow bored or not get the nutrition it needs.

Solution:

• Offer a variety of foods to keep your gecko interested. You can provide a mix of crested gecko diet powder, fresh fruits like mango or papaya, and live insects like crickets or mealworms.
• Make sure the food is appropriately sized, fresh, and easy for your gecko to consume.

Geckopia Solution:
If you’re struggling with offering food the right way, check out Geckopia Bowl (3 Pack). This bowl is perfect for offering multiple food types at once, keeping your gecko entertained and ensuring they have access to the nutrition they need.

5. Shedding Problems

Crested geckos shed their skin regularly, but sometimes they can get into a shedding cycle that affects their eating habits. When a gecko is in the middle of shedding or having trouble shedding, they may not want to eat.

Solution:

• Make sure your gecko has enough humidity to aid in shedding.
• Provide a shedding box with moist paper towels or moss to help them shed more easily.
• If shedding problems persist, consult a veterinarian to check for any underlying health issues.

6. Health Issues

If none of the above solutions seem to work, it might be time to consider a health issue. Common problems that affect appetite in crested geckos include:

• Parasites
• Mouth infections
• Metabolic bone disease (MBD)

Solution:

• If you notice unusual behavior (like lethargy or changes in appearance), or if your gecko stops eating for an extended period (more than a week), it's best to consult a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles. They can perform a thorough examination and help rule out medical issues.

Creating a Happy and Healthy Environment for Your Crested Gecko

Crested geckos are fairly low-maintenance pets, but they do require proper care to thrive. By making small changes to their environment and diet, you can encourage your gecko to eat regularly and stay healthy.

If you haven’t already, consider investing in products that can help provide a safer and more comfortable habitat:

• Geckopia Flex Bridge: Provides a safe and customizable climbing environment that reduces stress.
• Geckopia Bowl: Perfect for offering multiple food types, so your gecko is always interested in mealtime.

Conclusion

Understanding why your crested gecko isn’t eating can be frustrating, but with the right approach, you can get them back on track. From ensuring proper temperature and humidity to providing a stress-free environment, the key is consistency and attention to detail.

What’s worked for your gecko? Have you encountered any other challenges with your crested gecko’s appetite? Let us know in the comments below – we’d love to hear your experiences!