Leopard geckos are low-maintenance and resilient reptiles, making them popular pets for both beginners and seasoned herpetology enthusiasts. However, like all animals, they are susceptible to specific health issues. Understanding the common ailments that affect leopard geckos and their symptoms is key to ensuring your pet lives a healthy, happy life.
1. Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)
Metabolic Bone Disease is one of the most common and serious health issues in leopard geckos. It is primarily caused by deficiencies in calcium, vitamin D3, or improper UV lighting.
Symptoms:
- Weak or deformed bones
- Lethargy
- Difficulty walking or climbing
- Loss of appetite
Prevention and Treatment:
- Provide a calcium supplement with vitamin D3.
- Ensure they receive proper UVB lighting in their habitat.
- Maintain a balanced diet of gut-loaded insects.
- Consult a veterinarian if symptoms occur to prevent further complications.
2. Impaction
Impaction occurs when a leopard gecko ingests something that causes a blockage in their digestive system. This could be substrate material, undigested food, or other foreign objects.
Symptoms:
- Lack of appetite
- Swollen abdomen
- Inactivity
- Difficulty passing stool
Prevention and Treatment:
- Use safe substrates such as reptile carpet or paper towels instead of loose substrates like sand.
- Feed appropriately sized insects to avoid choking hazards.
- Provide regular access to warm temperatures, facilitating proper digestion.
- If you suspect impaction, consult a reptile-savvy vet immediately.
3. Respiratory Infections
Respiratory infections are often caused by a habitat that is too cold or has high humidity levels. These infections can become severe if not addressed promptly.
Symptoms:
- Wheezing or clicking sounds
- Mucus around the nose or mouth
- Difficulty breathing
- Lethargy
Prevention and Treatment:
- Maintain proper enclosure temperatures (85–90°F in the warm area) and keep the humidity between 30–40%.
- Provide a basking spot to allow your gecko to regulate its body temperature.
- Take your gecko to a veterinarian if you notice any respiratory symptoms, as antibiotics may be required.
4. Parasites
Leopard geckos can become infected with internal parasites, such as pinworms, or external parasites, like mites, which can affect their health.
Symptoms:
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss despite eating
- Visible mites or unusual skin shedding
- Abnormal stool consistency
Prevention and Treatment:
- Keep their habitat clean and disinfected.
- Quarantine any new geckos before introducing them to the enclosure.
- Regularly monitor their health and take stool samples to a vet for analysis.
- Antiparasitic medications may be necessary if parasites are confirmed.
5. Dysecdysis (Shedding Problems)
Dysecdysis refers to difficulties in shedding skin, which can be caused by improper humidity or inadequate nutrition.
Symptoms:
- Retained skin around the toes, eyes, and tail
- Skin cracking or injuries during shedding
Prevention and Treatment:
- Provide a moist hide filled with damp sphagnum moss to aid in shedding.
- Keep the enclosure humidity levels at 30–40% but ensure a moist hide is available.
- Gently remove retained skin with a damp cotton swab if required.
- Monitor your gecko’s diet to ensure proper hydration and nutrition.
6. Obesity and Nutritional Deficiency
While feeding your leopard gecko is one of the joys of ownership, an imbalanced diet can lead to obesity or nutritional deficiencies.
Symptoms:
- Fat pockets around the armpits or tail
- Lethargy due to excess weight
- Dull coloration from poor nutrition
- Reduced activity
Prevention and Treatment:
- Feed a varied diet of insects (e.g., crickets, mealworms, dubia roaches) and avoid overfeeding.
- Use calcium and vitamin dusting on feeder insects.
- Monitor your gecko’s weight and adjust feeding routines accordingly.
- Consult with a veterinarian for dietary adjustments if nutritional concerns arise.
7. Mouth Rot (Stomatitis)
Mouth rot is a bacterial infection that commonly occurs due to injuries or poor hygiene within the enclosure.
Symptoms:
- Swollen or discolored gums
- Pus or discharge near the mouth
- Difficulty eating
- Unpleasant odor
Prevention and Treatment:
- Keep the enclosure clean and disinfect food and water dishes regularly.
- Ensure there are no sharp or rough surfaces in the habitat that could injure your gecko.
- Consult a veterinarian immediately if symptoms occur, as antibiotics and thorough cleaning may be necessary.
Final Thoughts
Providing the proper care for your leopard gecko will significantly reduce the risk of these common health issues. Regular observation, a clean habitat, and a nutritious diet are key components of a healthy gecko’s life. Additionally, schedule annual check-ups with a reptile-savvy veterinarian to preemptively address any lingering or underlying health conditions. Being an informed and attentive leopard gecko owner is the best way to ensure your pet thrives for many years to come.
