Are you considering adopting a gecko? While there are other types of geckos, the most common is the leopard gecko, which is a really cute and friendly reptile that is very easy to raise. These animals, like any other reptile, require appropriate settings to survive. In reality, providing a suitable setting is half the battle in terms of care! A Lexington, KY vet shares some advice on this below.
Choosing Your Gecko’s Habitat
When selecting a cage, there are several factors to consider, but size is the most important.
Adult geckos require a habitat of at least 20 gallons. Juveniles’ tanks can be smaller. We recommend at least 10 gallons for a juvenile lizard. Of course, these are only estimations for one gecko. If you intend to have more than one, you will need a larger cage.
It’s ideal to obtain a habitat with glass walls. You may see habitats with open tops. These can be pretty appealing, but they will not be appropriate for every household. If you have additional pets and/or youngsters, choose a product with a screened lid. Leopard geckos cannot climb like other lizards, yet this provides protection from predators like cats.
In terms of form, choose a tank that allows for more horizontal than vertical area for a leopard gecko. Make sure the lid closes securely, especially if you have cats.
(Note that geckos come in a variety of sizes. We’re focusing on the leopard gecko in this article, so if you want a different type, you’ll need to do some study on that particular lizard. For example, if you’re getting an arboreal gecko, like a crested or tokay gecko, choose something tall enough to provide them some climbing space, so you can place miniature trees in there for them.
Lighting For Leopard Geckos
Most reptiles need UVB illumination to survive. If some reptiles do not receive enough UVB, they may develop MBD (metabolic bone disease), a painful and possibly lethal ailment. Leopard geckos do not share this trait. In fact, leopard geckos differ slightly from other reptiles in this regard. These guys are crepuscular. This implies they are most active at dusk and morning and sleep for the most of the day. Some studies demonstrate that geckos benefit from UVB rays, but not as much as other reptiles. It’s also not as important to them. Nonetheless, they require adequate lighting. A modest 12 watt bulb is appropriate for a leopard gecko. You’ll want to place this on a timer to mimic national light cycles.
Choosing a Substrate for Your Gecko
Choosing the appropriate substrate is also critical. These are typically classified into two types. Solid substrates include reptile carpet, butcher paper, paper towels, and newsprint, whereas loose substrates include substrate goods like quartz sand, excavator clay, and desert dirt.
Each form has its advantages and disadvantages. Solid substrates are more easily cleaned. They are also less in weight and generally less expensive. However, they do not allow your pet to dig and may provide little traction. They may also be unpleasant. Reptiles, like humans, may become painful after standing on a hard surface! Loose substrates facilitate digging and may be easier to clean. However, they are more expensive and heavier in weight. There is also a higher risk of impaction, parasite burden, and dehydration, especially if circumstances and other care needs are inadequate.
We would not recommend using sand on immature geckos. They may unintentionally consume it. This can result in bowel obstructions, which are extremely uncomfortable and dangerous. However, you can use a combination of sand and soil.
For further information on substrate, consult with your Lexington, KY veterinarian.
What Temperatures Do Geckos Require?
Leopard geckos naturally live in cooler climates than many other reptiles do. Leopard geckos, unlike many of their kin, do not enjoy extreme heat. However, it is critical to keep the cage within a specified range. In general, this should range between 23.89 and 26.67 degrees Celsius on the chilly side and 27 to 29 degrees Celsius on the warm side. You can lower the temperatures at night. You should also provide a space for basking. This should be hotter: around 32 to 35 degrees Celsius. Under-tank heaters or heated pads are a nice choice. Avoid using hot rocks since geckos frequently get burned on them.
Ask your Lexington, KY vet for particular advice on this, including tips on heating equipment.
What Types of Hides Do Geckos Require?
Everyone needs a place to relax and get away from it all. This also applies to reptiles! You’ll need to offer some form of hide. Geckos commonly hide in crevices and crevasses in the environment, therefore they have a strong need to retreat. Your pet’s cage should include something similar to this.
You may find fantastic hides at pet stores, but you can also be creative and use a plant pot, a plastic container with a ‘door’ cut into it, or anything similar.
You will need two. One should be on the end with the heat bulb, and the other on the other side. One of them will need to be set up in such a way that your lizard can shed. You can do this by including damp paper towels, moss, or other materials.
What Do Geckos Need in Terms of Entertainment?
Geckos don’t play, therefore you won’t need to provide any toys. However, there are ways of creating a fun environment for geckos. Like all other pets, they require stimulation and enrichment. For reptiles, this essentially includes climbing and exploring. You can incorporate safe plants, climbing rocks, logs, and other accessories. Small figurines or even works of art can give a playful touch. These elements can also make the habitat appear appealing and interesting!
What Else Should I Consider Before Purchasing A Gecko?
Before getting a leopard gecko or any other reptile, perform a thorough investigation. Consider factors like size, habitat requirements, temperament, lifespan, and care complexity. Diet is also a key consideration. Most of these guys eat real insects including crickets, Dubai roaches, and waxworms. Make sure you are comfortable purchasing, storing, and handling bugs.
Book an Appointment at Our Lexington, KY Animal Clinic
Are you looking for a great reptile vet in your area? Please contact us, your Lexington, KY pet hospital, today. We are dedicated to providing exceptional treatment!
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