By Leopard geckos are fascinating creatures, known for their unique appearance and captivating personalities. As insectivores, their diet consists primarily of insects, which can make feeding them a bit of a challenge for some pet owners. However, providing a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for the health and well-being of these reptiles. In this comprehensive feeding guide, we will explore the various aspects of a leopard gecko’s diet, from the types of insects they eat, to the importance of supplements and gut loading. We will also discuss feeding schedules, water requirements, and potential dangers associated with certain foods.
Table of Contents
What Do Leopard Geckos Eat?
Leopard geckos are insectivores, which means they primarily eat live insects. Unlike other common pet reptiles like iguanas or bearded dragons, leopard geckos do not consume vegetables, fruit, or plants. Their digestive systems are not built to process plant matter. Instead, they rely on insects for all of their nutritional needs. Some of the most common insects fed to leopard geckos include:
- Mealworms
- Crickets
- Dubia roaches
- Waxworms
Each insect offers different nutritional benefits, so it’s important to provide a variety of insects to ensure your gecko receives a well-rounded diet.
Selecting the Right Insects for Your Leopard Gecko
Mealworms
Mealworms are a popular choice for leopard geckos, as they are relatively easy to find and provide a good source of protein. They are the larval stage of the darkling beetle and come in various sizes, making them suitable for geckos of all ages. However, mealworms are relatively high in fat and have a lower calcium-to-phosphorus ratio, which means they should not be the sole source of food for your gecko. It’s essential to supplement mealworms with other insects and calcium powder to ensure a balanced diet.
Crickets
Crickets are another common feeder insect for leopard geckos. They are a good source of protein and are relatively low in fat. However, they can be more challenging to keep alive and may produce noise and odor if not properly cared for. When feeding crickets to your gecko, it’s important to choose appropriately sized insects – they should be no larger than the space between the gecko’s eyes.
Dubia Roaches
Dubia roaches are gaining popularity among reptile owners due to their high nutritional value and ease of care. They are an excellent source of protein and have a better calcium-to-phosphorus ratio than mealworms or crickets. Additionally, they are relatively odorless and do not produce noise, making them a more appealing option for some pet owners. As with other insects, it’s important to choose appropriately sized roaches for your gecko.
Waxworms
Waxworms are considered a treat for leopard geckos due to their high fat content. While they are a favorite among geckos, they should not be fed regularly, as they can lead to obesity and other health issues. Instead, offer waxworms as an occasional treat or to encourage eating during times of stress or illness.
Avoiding Unsafe Insects
While leopard geckos enjoy a variety of insects, there are certain types that should be avoided. Insects caught in the wild may carry diseases, parasites, or pesticides, which can be harmful to your gecko. Additionally, certain insects, such as fireflies or other luminescent insects, are toxic to leopard geckos and should never be offered as food.
The Importance of Gut Loading and Supplements
Gut Loading
Gut loading involves feeding your insects a nutritious diet for 12 to 24 hours before offering them to your gecko. This process ensures that the insects are a rich source of nutrition for your pet. You can gut load insects with commercial gut loading formulas or by providing them with vegetable scraps, such as carrots, potatoes, and apples.
Supplements
Even with gut loading, your leopard gecko may not receive all the nutrients it needs from its diet. Calcium and multivitamin supplements are essential for preventing nutrient deficiencies and promoting overall health. Calcium is particularly important for young geckos to prevent Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) and for breeding females to support egg production.
When using supplements, it’s crucial to choose the appropriate type based on whether your gecko has access to UVB lighting. Geckos without UVB lighting will require a calcium supplement with added vitamin D3, while those with UVB lighting can use a plain calcium supplement. Multivitamins should be offered once a week for young geckos and once every other week for adults.
Feeding Schedules and Portion Sizes
Leopard geckos’ feeding schedules and portion sizes should vary based on their age and size. As a general guideline:
- Hatchlings (0-6 months): Feed every day, dust insects with calcium 5 days per week
- Juveniles (6-12 months): Feed every other day, dust insects every 3rd feed
- Adults (1 year or older): Feed every 2-3 days, dust insects every 3rd-4th feed
Offer 2 appropriately-sized insects per 1 inch of your leopard gecko’s length, or as much as they can eat in 15 minutes.
Best Time to Feed Your Leopard Gecko
Leopard geckos are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during the twilight hours around dawn and dusk. To mimic their natural feeding habits, offer food during these times.
Providing Water for Your Leopard Gecko
Leopard geckos require access to fresh water at all times. Use a shallow, heavy dish to prevent spills and ensure your gecko can easily reach the water. Clean the dish regularly to prevent buildup and bacteria growth.
Additional Feeding Considerations
Hand Feeding
Hand feeding your leopard gecko with soft-tipped feeding tweezers can be a great way to bond with your pet and monitor its eating habits. This method can also make it easier to administer supplements, as you can directly dust the insects before offering them to your gecko.
Seasonal Appetite Changes
It’s not uncommon for leopard geckos to experience changes in their appetite during different seasons. They may eat less during the winter months, which is a normal response to changes in temperature and light.
Feeding Geckos with Special Needs
Leopard geckos with special needs, such as those recovering from illness or injury, may require additional care when it comes to feeding. Offer high-fat insects, such as waxworms, to help promote weight gain and healing. Consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations based on your gecko’s individual needs.
In Summary
Feeding your leopard gecko a balanced and varied diet is essential for its health and well-being. By offering a range of insects, gut loading, and providing appropriate supplements, you can ensure your gecko receives all the nutrients it needs to thrive. Regularly monitor your gecko’s appetite and adjust its feeding schedule as needed, always keeping fresh water available. With proper care and attention, your leopard gecko can enjoy a long, healthy life.