Why Is My Leopard Gecko Not Eating? Causes and Solutions

Leopard geckos have relatively simple dietary needs. They primarily feed on insects such as crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches. However, it's not uncommon for new geckos to take some time to adjust to their new environment before they feel comfortable enough to eat. Established Leopard Geckos can also stop eating due to stress, illness, or normal hormonal cycles.

Common Reasons Why Leopard Geckos May Not Be Eating

Stress: Changes in environment or handling can cause stress, leading to decreased appetite.

Illness: Health issues such as parasites or infections can affect a gecko's appetite.

Shedding: Leopard geckos may eat less or refuse food altogether during shedding periods.

Temperature and Humidity: Incorrect temperature or humidity levels can impact a gecko's appetite and overall health.

Breeding Season: From early spring to late summer, geckos of both sexes will often go off food. For more information, see this blog post.

Brumation: Over the colder months of the year, some Leopard Geckos will slow down and stop eating for a few weeks.

How to Get Your Gecko to Eat

Check Your Husbandry: The first step in addressing a leopard gecko's reluctance to eat is to ensure that their habitat meets their needs. Double-check the temperature and humidity levels to ensure they are within the appropriate range. Refer to reputable care sheets, such as ours or resources like Reptifiles, to ensure your husbandry aligns with best practices.

Add Clutter to the Enclosure: Leopard geckos are naturally cautious creatures, and they feel more secure in an enclosure that provides plenty of hiding spots and clutter. Consider adding cork bark, hides, and branches to their habitat to create a more comfortable environment. More on clutter in this blog post.

Learn About Their Previous Feeding Habits: Understanding how your leopard gecko was fed in their previous home can provide valuable insights into their dietary preferences. Some geckos may be accustomed to being hand-fed, while others may prefer hunting for insects on their own. Tailoring their feeding method to their previous habits can help ease the transition to their new home.

Try the "Gross" Method: While it may seem unappealing, sometimes a little trick can go a long way in stimulating a leopard gecko's appetite. Try cutting open an insect, such as a dubia roach, and gently bopping your gecko on the nose with the insect's guts. This can help associate you with food and encourage them to eat.

Seek Veterinary Advice if Necessary: If you've tried all of the above methods and your leopard gecko still isn't eating, it may be time to seek veterinary advice. A reptile veterinarian can assess your gecko's overall health and offer tailored recommendations to address any underlying issues that may be affecting their appetite.

For a list of vets, see here.

Encouraging a new leopard gecko to eat can be a gradual process that requires patience and experimentation. By providing a comfortable environment, offering a variety of food options, and employing techniques such as hand feeding and using scent and movement, you can help your gecko feel more comfortable and confident about eating. Remember to be patient, observe for signs of stress or illness, and consult with a reptile veterinarian if you have concerns about your gecko's eating habits. With time and care, your leopard gecko will likely settle in and start enjoying their meals.