Crested Gecko Health Problems You Should Know: Symptoms, Causes, and Prevention

Up to 40% of captive crested geckos develop preventable health problems due to suboptimal diet, humidity, or lighting. This professional guide explains how to recognize common crested gecko health problems, understand their underlying causes, and apply prevention strategies—highlighting nutritional support with calcium-rich freeze-dried treats from Talis-Us as part of a balanced regimen. You will discover an overview of frequent conditions, in-depth coverage of metabolic bone disease and impaction, shedding and parasite management, respiratory infection control, broader nutritional deficiencies, ideal enclosure setup, vet consultation guidelines, and the key owner concerns to watch. You can learn more about what can crested geckos eat.

What Are the Most Common Health Problems in Crested Geckos?

Metabolic Bone Disease, impaction, shedding disorders, parasites, respiratory infections, and vitamin imbalances are the most frequent health challenges for captive crested geckos. These conditions arise when nutritional intake, environmental factors, or husbandry protocols are misaligned with the species’ natural physiology and habitat needs. For more information, visit crested gecko care.

Below is a list of primary health issues and their relative prevalence in pet populations:

• Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) – Bone softening and deformities due to calcium and UVB deficiency
• Impaction – Blockage of the digestive tract from substrate or indigestible material
• Shedding Problems (Dysecdysis) – Incomplete or retained skin caused by low humidity or poor nutrition
• Parasites – Internal (nematodes, coccidia) or external (mites) organisms causing weight loss and irritation
• Respiratory Infections – Pneumonia or bronchitis triggered by improper temperature and humidity
• Nutritional Deficiencies – Beyond MBD, such as Vitamin A or trace mineral shortages

Each of these issues stems from gaps in diet, habitat control, or early detection—factors that we will explore in detail.

Which Symptoms Indicate a Sick Crested Gecko?

Signs of illness in a crested gecko include lethargy, appetite loss, abnormal feces, discolored or retained shed, and respiratory noises. Early recognition of these symptoms allows for prompt intervention and better outcomes.

Common warning signs:

• Lethargy and Reduced Activity – Gecko remains inactive during normal awake periods
• Weight Loss or Muscle Wasting – Visible spine or pelvic bones due to poor nutrient absorption
• Unusual Droppings – Diarrhea, hard pellets, or absence of feces indicating digestive distress
• Skin or Eye Issues – Retained shed around toes, flaking, or sunken eyes
• Labored Breathing – Wheezing or clicking sounds suggesting respiratory compromise

Identifying these red flags early prevents escalation into severe conditions and leads directly to examining environmental triggers.

How Do Environmental Factors Affect Crested Gecko Health?

Environmental stressors such as temperature swings, improper humidity, and lack of UVB lighting can weaken immune function, disrupt shedding, and impair nutrient metabolism.

Optimal husbandry removes these environmental barriers, supporting your gecko’s resilience and nutrient utilization.

Why Is Early Detection Important for Crested Gecko Diseases?

Early detection of crested gecko illnesses reduces treatment complexity, lowers veterinary costs, and enhances recovery probability. Prompt response halts disease progression and prevents complications.

Key benefits of early detection:

• Enables less invasive interventions before chronic damage
• Increases likelihood of full anatomical and behavioral recovery
• Minimizes the need for long-term medication or surgeries

Recognizing the link between symptoms and causative factors sets the stage for focused disease prevention—starting with the most critical condition, Metabolic Bone Disease.

How Does Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) Affect Crested Geckos?

Metabolic Bone Disease is a debilitating disorder in which insufficient calcium intake, inadequate UVB exposure, or vitamin D₃ deficiency leads to weakened skeletal structure and deformities. Addressing MBD is essential for maintaining mobility and overall well-being.

Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)

Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) is a debilitating disorder in which insufficient calcium intake, inadequate UVB exposure, or vitamin D₃ deficiency leads to weakened skeletal structure and deformities [8, 23, 31, 34]. Addressing MBD is essential for maintaining mobility and overall well-being.

The Environmental Literacy Council, What is metabolic bone disease crested gecko? (2025-06-09)

Affected geckos often exhibit: crested gecko care

• Soft, pliable bones and spinal curvature
• Lethargy and reluctance to climb
• Fractures or swelling at limb joints

What Are the Key Symptoms of MBD in Crested Geckos?

Symptoms of MBD include softened jawbones, tremors, swollen limbs, and difficulties in righting after flips. Early identification through careful observation can avert irreversible bone damage.

Key symptoms:

• Jaw Softness – Palpable flexibility when feeding
• Spinal Deformities – Noticeable curvature along the back
• Limb Swelling – Enlarged joints from microfractures
• Tremors – Minor shaking in legs when perching

Monitoring these signs guides immediate dietary and husbandry adjustments to halt disease progression.

What Causes Metabolic Bone Disease in Crested Geckos?

MBD arises from three primary factors: inadequate dietary calcium, insufficient UVB lighting for Vitamin D₃ synthesis, and unbalanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratios. Each element disrupts the mineralization process in bone tissue.

• Dietary Calcium Deficit → Lack of raw mineral substrate
• UVB Deficiency → Impaired Vitamin D₃ production in skin
• Phosphorus Excess → Interference with calcium absorption

Recognizing these root causes is the first step toward crafting a preventive nutrition and lighting plan.

How Can Diet and Supplements Prevent MBD?

A balanced feeding regimen rich in calcium and Vitamin D₃ prevents MBD by supporting bone mineralization. Incorporating targeted supplements and high-quality feeder insects ensures optimal nutrient intake.

• Offer dusted insects with calcium-to-phosphorus ratios at least 2:1
• Introduce gut-loaded feeder insects raised on calcium-rich diets
• Provide UVB lighting for 10–12 hours daily to facilitate Vitamin D₃ synthesis
• Include occasional calcium-rich freeze-dried treats to reinforce dietary minerals

These combined measures maintain structural integrity of your crested gecko’s skeleton and complement proper husbandry.

When Should You Consult a Veterinarian for MBD?

Veterinary evaluation is essential when you observe persistent limb swelling, severe spinal deformities, or failure to thrive despite nutritional improvements. Advanced diagnostic tools like X-rays confirm bone density loss and guide treatment plans.

Seek professional care if:

• Dietary adjustments and lighting changes fail to improve symptoms
• Your gecko shows new fractures or extreme mobility issues
• Appetite remains poor and weight continues to decline

Timely veterinary intervention can restore bone health through calcium injections, UVB recalibration, and tailored therapy.

What Are the Best Practices to Prevent MBD in Crested Geckos?

Prevent MBD by combining precise nutrition, consistent UVB exposure, and routine health monitoring. These core husbandry practices create a stable environment for bone strength and growth.

• Maintain daily UVB exposure using reptile-grade bulbs
• Dust live insects with reptile calcium supplement at every feeding
• Rotate feeder insect species to ensure varied nutrient profiles
• Monitor weight and posture weekly to detect early irregularities

Implementing these steps prevents MBD and establishes a foundation for overall reptile health—paralleling prevention tactics for other conditions like impaction.

What Causes Impaction in Crested Geckos and How Can It Be Treated?

Impaction occurs when a gecko ingests substrate or indigestible matter that lodges in the digestive tract, leading to blockage, dehydration, and organ strain. Proper diet hydration and substrate choice eliminate most impaction risks.

What Are the Signs of Impaction in Crested Geckos?

Early signs of impaction include lack of defecation, bloating, and reduced appetite. Detecting these indicators promptly avoids life-threatening blockage.

Symptoms:

• Absence of Feces – No droppings for 5+ days
• Abdominal Swelling – Noticeable ballooning around midsection
• Lethargy – Unwillingness to climb or explore habitat
• Loss of Appetite – Refusal to eat even favorite prey

Observation of these signs calls for immediate hydration and dietary adjustments to alleviate obstruction.

How Do Substrate and Dehydration Contribute to Impaction?

Loose substrates like sand or wood chips present ingestion hazards, while dehydration limits intestinal motility and exacerbates blockage. Both factors compound the risk of impaction in captive geckos.

• Substrate Ingestion → Geckos accidentally swallow loose granules
• Low Hydration → Reduced peristalsis slows digestion

Eliminating loose substrates and ensuring constant access to moist hides prevents most impaction cases.

What Home Remedies and Veterinary Treatments Are Available for Impaction?

Gentle hydration, warm baths, and dietary fiber support can clear mild impactions at home, while severe cases require veterinary intervention with fluid therapy or surgical removal.

Home care steps:

• Offer shallow warm water baths for 15 minutes to stimulate gut movement
• Provide soft foods like mashed fruit or gecko-safe baby food
• Ensure constant access to water bowl for ad libitum drinking

Veterinary options:

• Subcutaneous fluids to rehydrate and soften blockage
• Radiographs to locate impacted material
• Manual extraction or surgery under anesthesia

Early management prevents escalation into more invasive procedures and integrates seamlessly with hydration-focused preventive care.

How Can Proper Hydration and Diet Prevent Impaction?

Impaction Prevention

Consistent hydration and a balanced diet promote regular bowel movements and reduce the chance of substrate ingestion [11, 33, 38]. Incorporate moisture-rich foods and rehydrated treats to bolster hydration levels.

Pet Engineers, 4 Ways On How To Prevent Crested Gecko Impaction 2025 (2023-12-02)

Maintaining high humidity and offering rehydrated nutritious freeze-dried insects encourages fluid balance and keeps digestion moving smoothly.

How to Identify and Manage Shedding Problems (Dysecdysis) in Crested Geckos?

Dysecdysis refers to incomplete or problematic shedding caused by low humidity levels, poor nutrition, or lack of abrasive surfaces in the enclosure. Proper care prevents retained sheds and related infections.

Shedding Problems

Dysecdysis refers to incomplete or problematic shedding caused by low humidity levels, poor nutrition, or lack of abrasive surfaces in the enclosure [6, 7, 10, 12]. Proper care prevents retained sheds and related infections.

Zen Habitats, Crested Gecko Shedding and How To Help Your Gecko Shed! (2024)

What Are the Symptoms of Shedding Difficulties?

Retained skin patches, especially around toes and eye slits, signal shedding issues. These stuck layers can constrict circulation and lead to tissue necrosis if untreated.

Key symptoms:

• Skin Patches – White flakes adhering to toes or tail
• Swollen Digits – Circulation compromised by retained sheath
• Irritated Skin – Redness or small lesions under stuck shed

Early assistance ensures full renewal of skin without complications.

How Do Humidity and Nutrition Affect Shedding?

Optimal humidity (60–80%) and a diet rich in essential fatty acids support healthy skin turnover. Both factors lubricate new skin growth and facilitate smooth shedding.

• Low Humidity → Dry skin that tears unevenly
• Poor Diet → Inadequate lipids for skin elasticity

Balancing humidity in the habitat and offering nutrient-dense prey or supplements reduces dysecdysis occurrences. Crested gecko care is crucial for preventing such issues.

What Are Effective Ways to Assist Your Gecko During Shedding?

Providing moist hides, gentle baths, and safe shedding aids accelerates skin removal without stress. Hands-off approaches allow the gecko to slough old skin naturally.

Assistance techniques:

• Add a moist hide box with damp sphagnum moss for 24 hours
• Offer a shallow lukewarm bath to soften retained patches
• Use a soft brush or cotton swab to gently lift stuck layers

These steps support complete sheds and transition directly into prevention practices.

How Can You Prevent Shedding Problems?

Maintaining stable humidity, incorporating shedding aids, and providing balanced nutrition keeps skin health optimal. Consistency prevents the buildup of stuck layers and associated infections.

• Set up a humidity gradient with daily misting
• Include rough branches and bark for mechanical shed removal
• Offer occasional fatty-acid supplements or lipid-rich prey

Preventive measures ensure smooth skin renewal and reduce stress on delicate tissues.

What Are the Common Parasites Affecting Crested Geckos and How Are They Treated?

Parasites such as nematodes, flagellates, and mites compromise crested gecko health by causing weight loss, irritation, and organ damage. Identifying parasite types enables targeted treatment and hygiene protocols.

Which Internal and External Parasites Affect Crested Geckos?

Internal parasites include nematodes and protozoa in the digestive tract, while external parasites consist of mites that burrow around eyelids and skin folds. Each category requires different diagnostic and treatment approaches.

• Internal: Roundworms (Ascarids), Coccidia, Protozoa
• External: Tropical reptile mites, Skin burrowing arachnids

Understanding parasite life cycles guides effective eradication strategies.

What Symptoms Indicate Parasite Infestation?

Symptoms include weight loss, lethargy, visible mites on skin, and abnormal droppings. Detecting these signs early stops reinfestation and prevents secondary infections.

Infestation indicators:

• Weight Decline – Ongoing emaciation despite adequate feeding
• Skin Itching or Rubbing – Gecko scratches against cage décor
• Mite Sightings – Tiny moving specks on skin or substrate
• Diarrhea – Loose stools from intestinal irritation

Once identified, treatment can proceed without delay.

How Are Parasites Diagnosed and Treated?

Parasite Treatment

Veterinarians perform fecal flotation tests for internal parasites and skin scrapings for mites, then prescribe targeted anthelmintics or acaricides [9, 20, 25, 28]. Treatment success relies on strict follow-up and environmental decontamination.

Pet Engineers, How To Treat and Get Rid of Crested Gecko Parasites Guide 2025 (2024-03-12)

Diagnostic and treatment steps:

• Collect fresh fecal sample for laboratory analysis
• Prescribe oral or injectable antiparasitic medication
• Clean and disinfect enclosure with reptile-safe products

Effective treatment stops parasite life cycles and restores gecko health.

How Can Good Hygiene Prevent Parasite Problems?

Regular cleaning of hides, substrate, and water dishes eliminates parasite eggs and mites from the environment. Strict quarantine for new geckos prevents introduction of novel parasites.

Hygiene best practices:

• Replace substrate weekly and sterilize decor monthly
• Disinfect water bowls and feeding dishes after each use
• Quarantine new or returning reptiles for at least 30 days

Enforcing these protocols maintains an infestation-free habitat and supports long-term well-being.

How Do Respiratory Infections Impact Crested Gecko Health?

Respiratory infections, including bacterial pneumonia, arise when humidity and temperature are misaligned. These diseases compromise oxygen exchange and can become fatal if neglected.

What Are the Symptoms and Causes of Respiratory Infections?

Symptoms of Respiratory Infections

Symptoms of respiratory infections include wheezing, mucus around nostrils, open-mouth breathing, and lethargy. Low daytime temperatures or excessively high humidity create pathogen-friendly conditions [15, 19, 35, 36].

Pets in the Classroom, Our Gecko is Sick (2024)

• Wheezing or Clicking Sounds – Fluid in airways
• Sticky Nasal Discharge – Mucus accumulation at snout
• Gasping – Open-mouth breathing to compensate for poor airflow
• Appetite Loss – Reduced feeding due to respiratory distress

Identifying these signs leads to targeted treatment and environmental correction.

What Treatment Options Are Available for Respiratory Issues?

Treatment combines antibiotic therapy with optimized husbandry: stable temperature gradients, moderate humidity (50–70%), and increased ventilation. Supportive care such as hydration and steam therapy accelerates recovery.

Treatment steps:

• Veterinary prescription of broad-spectrum antibiotics
• Maintain day temperatures of 72–80°F and nights above 65°F
• Provide brief steam sessions to clear airways

This integrated approach restores respiratory function and prevents relapse.

How Can You Prevent Respiratory Infections in Your Gecko?

Consistent monitoring of enclosure climate and avoiding extremes prevents pathogen overgrowth. Proper ventilation and regular cleaning reduce airborne contaminants that trigger infections.

• Install a thermostat-controlled heat source for stable temperatures
• Keep ambient humidity within species-recommended range
• Clean cage air vents and replace substrate routinely

Preventive measures protect the respiratory tract and complement overall disease avoidance strategies.

What Nutritional Deficiencies Beyond MBD Affect Crested Geckos?

While MBD highlights calcium and Vitamin D₃ deficits, other nutrient shortages—such as Vitamin A and trace minerals—can impair vision, immune response, and tissue repair. A holistic diet prevents multiple deficiency-related disorders.

How Does Vitamin A Deficiency Affect Crested Geckos?

Vitamin A deficiency leads to eye swelling, respiratory mucus buildup, and poor skin health. This fat-soluble vitamin supports epithelial integrity across multiple organ systems.

• Symptom: Swollen eyelids or cloudy eyes
• Mechanism: Impaired mucus regulation in respiratory tract
• Consequence: Increased infection risk and shedding complications

Supplementing with vitamin A–rich feeder insects or specialized gut loads corrects these deficits.

What Other Vitamin and Mineral Imbalances Are Common?

Common imbalances include shortages of phosphorus-bound trace minerals (e.g., magnesium, zinc) and Vitamin E, which affect muscle function, immunity, and antioxidant defense.

How Does a Balanced Diet Support Overall Gecko Health?

A balanced diet rich in gut-loaded insects, occasional fruit, and safe nutrient supplements creates robust immune function, healthy skin, and efficient digestion. This holistic approach prevents multiple disorders simultaneously.

• Varied Insect Rotation → Diverse micro-nutrient profiles
• Controlled Fruit Snacks → Supplemental vitamins and hydration
• Occasional Freeze-Dried Treats → Concentrated nutrition boost

Combining these elements sustains vitality and reduces the incidence of both common and obscure health problems.

How Do Talis-Us Freeze-Dried Treats Support Nutritional Health?

Talis-Us Freeze-Dried Treats offer a convenient source of protein, calcium, and essential vitamins that complement live feeders. Their low moisture and high nutrient density make them ideal for supplementation and appetite stimulation.

• High Protein Content – Supports muscle development and repair
• Enhanced Calcium Levels – Maintains bone mineralization
• Long Shelf Life – Ensures consistent nutrient availability

Incorporating these treats into your gecko’s feeding rotation enhances dietary balance and prevents subtle deficiencies that can undermine long-term health.

How Should You Set Up the Ideal Enclosure to Prevent Health Problems?

Proper enclosure design—covering temperature, humidity, substrate, lighting, and hygiene—is the cornerstone of preventing all common crested gecko diseases. An optimized habitat mirrors the species’ native conditions and promotes natural behaviors.

Optimal Enclosure Setup

Proper enclosure design, including temperature, humidity, substrate, lighting, and hygiene, is crucial for preventing common crested gecko diseases. An optimized habitat mimics the species' natural environment and encourages natural behaviors [1, 2, 3, 5, 16, 21, 27].

ExoticDirect, Crested Gecko enclosure: what type and what size? (2019-11-13)

What Are the Optimal Temperature and Humidity Levels for Crested Geckos?

Maintaining 72–80°F during the day and 65–72°F at night with humidity between 60–80% ensures metabolic efficiency and healthy shedding. Temperature gradients allow thermoregulation and support immune resilience.

• Day Temperature: 72–80°F
• Night Temperature: 65–72°F
• Humidity: 60–80% with daily misting

These parameters reduce stress, support digestion, and facilitate smooth skin renewal.

Which Substrates Are Safe to Prevent Impaction and Other Issues?

Safe substrates such as coconut fiber, reptile carpet, or paper towels prevent ingestion and blockages. Avoid loose substrates like sand, bark chips, or gravel that present impaction hazards.

Selecting the right substrate reduces digestive risks and maintains a clean environment for your gecko.

How Does Proper UVB Lighting Support Health?

UVB lighting enables skin synthesis of Vitamin D₃, which is essential for calcium metabolism and bone health. A 5–7% UVB bulb positioned 6–12 inches from the basking area provides sufficient exposure.

• UVB Output: 5–7% reptile-grade bulb
• Duration: 10–12 hours daily
• Placement: Above mesh top, unobstructed by glass

Consistent UVB exposure prevents MBD and enhances overall vitality by supporting nutrient assimilation.

How Can Enclosure Hygiene Reduce Disease Risks?

Regular cleaning of hides, water dishes, and substrate removal eliminates pathogens and parasite eggs. A sanitized habitat lowers infection rates and improves respiratory health.

• Remove waste daily and replace substrate weekly
• Disinfect décor and water bowls with reptile-safe cleaners
• Check cages for mold or bacterial growth

Strict hygiene protocols complement other preventive measures to maintain a disease-free environment.

When Should You Seek Veterinary Care for Your Crested Gecko?

Knowing when to consult a reptile veterinarian ensures timely diagnosis and professional treatment of complex health issues. Veterinary input achieves accurate disease identification and customized care plans.

What Are Warning Signs That Require Immediate Vet Attention?

Certain symptoms represent emergencies and demand prompt professional evaluation to prevent irreversible damage or death.

• Sudden paralysis or inability to move limbs
• Severe bleeding or open wounds
• Persistent inability to right itself when flipped
• Gasping for air or continuous wheezing

Early transport to a vet equipped for exotic pet care increases survival odds and minimizes distress.

How Do Veterinarians Diagnose and Treat Common Health Problems?

Reptile veterinarians use physical exams, fecal flotations, blood tests, and imaging to diagnose conditions like MBD, impaction, and infections. Treatment may involve medication, fluid therapy, dietary plans, or minor surgeries.

• Diagnostic Tools: X-rays, endoscopy, blood panels
• Therapies: Antibiotics, anthelmintics, calcium injections
• Supportive Care: Fluid therapy, thermal rehabilitation

Professional intervention restores health faster than at-home remedies alone, especially for advanced cases.

How Can Regular Vet Checkups Prevent Serious Health Issues?

Biannual or annual wellness exams detect subtle changes in weight, posture, and bloodwork before clinical signs emerge. Routine screening for parasites, nutritional imbalances, and organ function supports proactive care.

• Scheduled examinations every 6–12 months
• Fecal screening for parasite burdens
• Assessment of bone density and overall condition

Preventive veterinary care complements good husbandry and strengthens long-term health outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my crested gecko is not eating?

If your crested gecko is refusing food, it may be a sign of stress, illness, or environmental issues. First, check the enclosure's temperature and humidity levels, ensuring they are within the recommended ranges. Offer a variety of food options, including live insects and nutritious treats. If the refusal persists for more than a few days, consult a veterinarian to rule out underlying health problems, such as parasites or metabolic disorders.

How can I tell if my crested gecko is dehydrated?

Signs of dehydration in crested geckos include sunken eyes, lethargy, and dry or wrinkled skin. You may also notice a decrease in appetite and less frequent droppings. To prevent dehydration, ensure your gecko has constant access to fresh water and consider misting the enclosure to maintain humidity. If dehydration is suspected, provide a shallow warm bath to encourage fluid absorption and consult a veterinarian for further advice.

What is the best way to handle a sick crested gecko?

When handling a sick crested gecko, minimize stress by keeping handling to a minimum. Observe its behavior and symptoms closely, and avoid unnecessary movement. If you need to transport it to a veterinarian, use a secure, well-ventilated container. Ensure the environment is calm and quiet during this time. Always consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your gecko's specific health issues.

How often should I clean my crested gecko's enclosure?

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining a healthy environment for your crested gecko. Spot clean daily by removing waste and uneaten food. A thorough cleaning, including substrate replacement and disinfecting decor, should be done weekly. This routine helps prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria and parasites, ensuring your gecko remains healthy and stress-free in its habitat.

Can crested geckos get stressed, and what are the signs?

Yes, crested geckos can experience stress due to environmental changes, handling, or inadequate care. Signs of stress include hiding more than usual, loss of appetite, lethargy, and aggressive behavior. To reduce stress, maintain a stable environment, avoid excessive handling, and provide hiding spots. If stress persists, evaluate the enclosure setup and consult a veterinarian for further guidance.

What should I do if my crested gecko has retained shed?

If your crested gecko has retained shed, particularly around the toes or eyes, it’s important to act quickly. Provide a shallow, warm bath to help loosen the stuck skin. You can also create a moist hide using damp sphagnum moss to encourage shedding. If the problem persists or if you notice swelling or irritation, consult a veterinarian for assistance to prevent tissue damage.

How can I ensure my crested gecko gets a balanced diet?

To provide a balanced diet for your crested gecko, offer a variety of foods, including gut-loaded insects, fruits, and specialized gecko diets. Dust insects with calcium and vitamin supplements to ensure proper nutrition. Incorporate high-quality freeze-dried treats occasionally to enhance dietary diversity. Regularly monitor your gecko's weight and health to adjust its diet as needed, and consult a veterinarian for personalized dietary recommendations.