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Gecko Care Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Keeping Geckos as Pets

August 22, 2025  ,  No comments

 



Geckos as Pets: A Complete Care Guide

Geckos are one of the most fascinating reptiles kept as pets worldwide. With their unique appearance, calm demeanor, and relatively easy care requirements, they are a popular choice among reptile enthusiasts and beginners alike. From Leopard Geckos to Crested Geckos, these little lizards bring exotic charm to your home. However, like any pet, geckos need proper care, housing, and attention to thrive.

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about keeping geckos as pets.

Why Choose a Gecko as a Pet?

Geckos make excellent pets for many reasons:

  • Low Maintenance: Compared to many reptiles, geckos have simpler care needs.

  • Small Size: Most pet geckos stay under 10 inches, making them easy to house.

  • Gentle Nature: They are generally calm and rarely aggressive if handled properly.

  • Unique Appearance: From bright patterns to sticky toe pads, geckos are truly fascinating creatures.

  • Variety: Different species offer different personalities and care levels.

Popular species include:

  • Leopard Gecko (beginner-friendly, hardy, terrestrial)

  • Crested Gecko (arboreal, easy to handle, requires moderate humidity)

  • Tokay Gecko (colorful but more aggressive, better for experienced keepers)

  • Gargoyle Gecko (calm and interesting climbers)

Housing Requirements for Geckos

Enclosure Size

  • Leopard Geckos: A 20-gallon tank is sufficient for one adult.

  • Crested Geckos & Arboreal Species: Vertical terrariums (18x18x24 inches) work best.

Substrate

  • Safe Choices: Paper towels, reptile carpet, coconut fiber, or tile.

  • Avoid: Sand or loose substrates (risk of impaction).

Temperature & Lighting

  • Leopard Geckos: Require a temperature gradient (warm side: 88–92°F, cool side: 75–80°F). Use an under-tank heater.

  • Crested Geckos: Room temperature (72–78°F) is sufficient; avoid overheating.

  • Lighting: Geckos are nocturnal, so UVB is optional but beneficial for overall health.

Humidity

  • Leopard Geckos: Low humidity (30–40%) with a moist hide for shedding.

  • Crested & Gargoyle Geckos: Higher humidity (50–70%). Mist their enclosure daily.

Hides & Decor

  • Provide at least 2–3 hides: one warm, one cool, and one moist.

  • Add climbing branches, vines, and plants for arboreal species.

Diet and Nutrition

Geckos are insectivores (except for some like Crested Geckos, which also eat fruit-based diets).

Feeding Guidelines

  • Leopard Geckos: Crickets, mealworms, dubia roaches, and occasional waxworms.

  • Crested Geckos: Commercial crested gecko diet (CGD) mixed with water, plus occasional feeder insects.

  • Tokay & Gargoyle Geckos: Similar to crested, with more insects.

Supplements

  • Calcium & Vitamin D3: Dust insects with calcium powder 3–4 times a week.

  • Multivitamins: Use once a week for balanced nutrition.

Handling and Temperament

  • Leopard Geckos & Crested Geckos: Generally docile and tolerate handling well.

  • Tokay Geckos: Can be defensive and bite; better as display pets.

  • Tips for Handling:

    • Always handle gently and support their body.

    • Avoid grabbing their tail (they can drop it when threatened).

    • Limit handling to short sessions until they become comfortable.

Common Health Concerns

  1. Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): Caused by calcium deficiency—prevent with supplements.

  2. Respiratory Infections: Often from poor humidity or cold temperatures.

  3. Shedding Problems: Ensure proper humidity and a moist hide.

  4. Parasites: Can occur from wild-caught insects—use captive-bred feeders.

Regular check-ups with a reptile vet can help prevent serious health issues.

Pros and Cons of Keeping a Gecko

✅ Pros

  • Small and easy to house

  • Low noise and odor

  • Fascinating behaviors

  • Long lifespan (Leopard Geckos can live 15–20 years with proper care)

❌ Cons

  • Not cuddly pets

  • Require live insects (some owners may find this difficult)

  • Sensitive to improper temperature or humidity

Final Thoughts

Geckos are an incredible choice for reptile lovers—whether you want a hardy Leopard Gecko, a colorful Tokay, or a quirky Crested Gecko. With proper housing, diet, and care, these reptiles can be long-term companions that bring joy and curiosity into your home.

If you’re ready for a low-maintenance yet fascinating pet, a gecko might be the perfect match.

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