Feed Crested Geckos Daily or Every Other Day
Crested geckos, especially juveniles and those experiencing growth spurts, benefit from daily feeding to ensure adequate nutrient intake. Adult crested geckos can be fed every other day, as their metabolic rate slows down. Offer fresh food each night, and remove any uneaten food the following morning to prevent spoilage and maintain hygiene.
Juvenile Feeding Schedule
- Young Juveniles (under 6 months): Feed daily.
- Older Juveniles (6 months to 1 year): Feed daily to every other day.
Adult Feeding Schedule
- Adult crested geckos (over 1 year) typically thrive on a feeding schedule of every other day.
- Monitor your gecko's weight and activity level; adjust feeding frequency as needed.
What to Feed
A commercially available crested gecko diet (CGD) is the staple food. Supplement with small, gut-loaded insects a few times a week. Ensure all food items are appropriately sized for your gecko.
Feeding Methods Comparison
| Feeding Method | Frequency | Best For | Preparation Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Diet Mix | Daily (juveniles), Every Other Day (adults) | All life stages | Low (mix with water) |
| Live Insect Supplementation | 2-3 times per week | Nutrient variety, enrichment | Medium (source, gut-load, offer) |
| Occasional Fruit Puree | Once a week (small amount) | Treat, moisture source | Low (mash or puree) |
Monitoring and Adjustments
- Observe your gecko's body condition. A healthy gecko will have a plump tail.
- If your gecko appears underweight, increase feeding frequency or portion size slightly.
- If your gecko is overweight, reduce feeding frequency or portion size.
- Always provide fresh, clean water in a shallow dish or via dripping.