Leopard Gecko Complete Care Guide
Comprehensive leopard gecko care guide covering enclosure, heating, diet, shedding, common health issues, and morphs.
Housing and Enclosure
Leopard geckos need a minimum 20-gallon long terrarium for one adult. Provide a warm hide (88-92°F floor temperature using an under-tank heater with thermostat), a cool hide (75°F), and a moist hide with damp moss for shedding. Use paper towels, slate tile, or reptile carpet as substrate — avoid loose substrates for juveniles.
Diet and Nutrition
Feed gut-loaded insects including crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms, and occasional waxworms or hornworms as treats. Dust insects with calcium powder (with D3) at every feeding and a multivitamin once weekly. Feed juveniles daily, adults every other day. Always provide fresh water.
Health and Veterinary Care
Common leopard gecko health issues include metabolic bone disease, impaction, crypto (Cryptosporidiosis), stuck shed, and eye infections. Maintain proper temperatures and calcium supplementation to prevent most issues. Watch for weight loss, lethargy, retained shed on toes, or sunken eyes.
Common Health Issues
- Metabolic bone disease: Often caused by inadequate UVB lighting or calcium supplementation
- Respiratory infections: Usually linked to incorrect temperature or humidity
- Parasites: Both internal and external parasites can affect exotic pets
- Nutritional deficiencies: Result from improper or monotonous diets
- Stress-related illness: Caused by improper housing, handling, or environmental factors
Handling and Socialization
- Allow new pets to acclimate to their enclosure before handling
- Learn proper handling techniques specific to your pet's species
- Start with short handling sessions and gradually increase duration
- Wash hands before and after handling to prevent disease transmission
- Respect your pet's signals — not all exotic pets enjoy being handled
Are leopard geckos good for beginner reptile owners?
Some exotic pets are excellent for beginners (leopard geckos, corn snakes, budgies, betta fish) while others require advanced experience (chameleons, macaws, saltwater aquariums). Research thoroughly before committing.
How much do exotic pets cost to care for?
Initial setup costs (enclosure, lighting, heating) are usually the largest expense, ranging from $100-$1,000+. Ongoing costs for food, substrate, and veterinary care typically run $30-$100/month.
Your vet has context no article can replicate; confirm food choices with them directly, particularly when your pet already has medical conditions in the picture.