Help! My Crested or Gargoyle Gecko Isn’t Eating

Welcome to the enchanting world of crested and gargoyle geckos! As new reptile keepers, you may encounter the common concern of your gecko not eating as expected. Don't worry! In this guide, we'll address this issue and provide valuable insights on gecko care including settling in time, gecko size, frequency of feeding, gecko diet options, and when to be concerned. Let's ensure the well-being of your gecko and make your journey as a responsible pet owner a rewarding one!

Settling in Time

When bringing home a new crested or gargoyle gecko, it's important to give them some settling in time. Relocating to a new environment can be stressful for these little creatures, and they might take a little while to adjust. Be patient and create a calm, secure enclosure to help your gecko feel comfortable. Let them explore and get accustomed to their new home at their own pace. 

Be patient and persistent when offering food to your gecko on a regular basis. Don't be alarmed if they don't eat right away; crested geckos typically take a week or two to settle in, while gargoyle geckos may need up to a month. Minimize handling during this period to help them adjust faster. Keep in mind that moving them to a new enclosure can trigger another settling in time, possibly leading to a temporary loss of appetite. Rest assured, with time and a stress-free environment, your gecko will eventually start eating again.

Size Matters - Baby and Juvie Gecko Tips

The size of your gecko is a crucial factor to consider, as it directly influences their dietary needs. Smaller geckos require less food compared to larger ones. This might make it challenging to determine if your baby or juvenile gecko is eating, especially if they don't leave noticeable marks in their food. To address this, consider changing the consistency of their diet; thicker food is more likely to show marks when eaten. Additionally, installing a night vision, motion-activated camera in their enclosure can help you observe their nocturnal activities and, hopefully, catch them in the act of eating at night. These measures will assist you in ensuring that your gecko is getting the nourishment they need for proper growth and well-being.

Crested Gecko and Gargoyle Gecko Feeding Frequency

Feeding your crested or gargoyle gecko depends on its age and development stage. For young geckos, like babies or juveniles, they are more active and need small, frequent meals. Feed them daily or every other day for the necessary nutrients. For adults, their metabolism slows down, so feed them two to three times a week. Monitor their weight and health to ensure the right feeding frequency. Complete crested gecko diets can be left for 48 hours before going bad, making it fine to provide fresh food every other day. Remember, each gecko may have individual preferences, so observing their behavior and appetite will help you establish the ideal feeding schedule tailored to their specific needs.

Crested Gecko and Gargoyle Gecko Diet Options

For crested and gargoyle geckos, a high-quality, trusted gecko diet is essential. Repashy and Pangea are two reputable brands that offer complete diets with a variety of flavors, providing all the essential nutrients your gecko needs. While wild geckos don't eat commercially available diets, these formulas are specially designed to ensure your pet receives proper nutrition.

Supplementing their diet with gut-loaded bugs once a week is beneficial. Calcium-dusted bugs help maintain the calcium-phosphorus ratio, preventing calcium deficiency. If bugs aren't an option, consider offering a higher protein gecko diet like Pangea Growth and Breeder Blend or Repashy's Grubs n Fruit.

While geckos eat fruit in the wild, it's essential to maintain a balanced diet. You can offer ripe fruit as a treat in moderation to avoid an imbalanced nutritional intake.

Avoid using baby food to feed your gecko, as it lacks the necessary nutrients and can lead to metabolic bone disease (MBD). Instead, opt for commercially available gecko diets from reputable brands.

While some cheaper brands may tempt you, prioritize quality over cost. Brands like ZooMed and Flukers may not offer the same nutritional value as Repashy or Pangea. Research other brands that may not be as widely available in the United States to find suitable alternatives. When choosing a different brand, ensure it is trustworthy and provides the right nutrients for your gecko's health.

Additional Feeding Tips

To encourage your gargoyle or crested gecko to eat, consider these helpful tips:

1. Offer a Variety of Flavors: Both Pangea and Repashy provide a wide range of flavors. Trying different options can stimulate your gecko's appetite and cater to their preferences.

2. Multiple Feeding Locations: Place food in various spots within the enclosure, ensuring easy access for your gecko. Providing ledges or accessible feeding areas is particularly important for gargoyle geckos, as they may not climb the glass as often.

3. Optimal Temperature: While these geckos can tolerate room temperatures, slightly warming their environment can boost their appetite and encourage more eating.

4. Limit Handling: If your gecko isn't eating, avoid handling them for enjoyment, except for essential maintenance tasks.

5. Patience and Observation: Be patient and observant with your gecko. Give them time to acclimate to their new surroundings, and try different tactics to entice them to eat.

By following these tips, you can create an environment that encourages your gecko to eat and thrive happily. Remember, every gecko is unique, so finding the best approach may take some time and experimentation. Your dedication to their well-being will contribute to a healthy and contented gecko.

When to Be Concerned

If you find your crested or gargoyle gecko not eating, don't worry too much. Instead, focus on key indicators of their well-being, such as regular production of feces, maintaining a healthy weight, and observing their activity levels. These signs can help you identify any health concerns. If you notice any unusual behaviors or are unsure about their health, seeking professional veterinary assistance is essential. A reptile veterinarian experienced in treating geckos can conduct a thorough examination and provide a proper diagnosis to ensure your gecko's health and happiness.

In conclusion, remember to offer a variety of high-quality gecko diets, respect their preferences, and provide a suitable environment. Be patient during the settling-in period and observe their behavior closely. If any concerns arise, seek professional veterinary assistance promptly. Your dedication ensures a healthy and fulfilling life for your crested or gargoyle gecko. Happy gecko keeping!