African fat-tailed geckos are often confused with leopard geckos, but they are actually a different type of gecko. African fat-tailed geckos are almost as popular as leopard geckos due to their increased availability and ease of care. If youre interested in these small lizards, knowing what they need to thrive as a pet is of the utmost importance.
Adult Size Usually 7-9 inches in length but may be as small as 4 inches or as large as 11 inches
The African fat-tailed gecko is a popular pet reptile known for its docile nature, easy care requirements, and distinctive body shape. However, these geckos can sometimes develop problems with their appetite and stop eating. As an owner, it’s important to understand the possible reasons for lack of appetite and how to get your gecko eating again.
Why Your African Fat-Tailed Gecko Isn’t Eating
There are several potential causes for a loss of appetite in the African fat-tailed gecko
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Incorrect temperatures – African fat-tails require a warm side of 90-95°F and a cool side around 80°F. If temperatures are too low, digestion slows and appetite decreases Check temperatures with a digital thermometer
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Impaction – Impaction occurs when substrate is ingested and causes intestinal blockage. Provide loose, ingestible substrate. Give warm soaks to encourage passing blockage.
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Respiratory infection – Symptoms include wheezing, mouth gaping, and loss of appetite Caused by bacteria, stress, improper humidity Seek veterinary treatment.
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Mouth rot – Mouth bacteria can overgrow if immune system weakens. Causes mouth inflammation, dead tissue, puss. Get urgent vet care.
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Discomfort from injury – Injuries like eye problems, abscesses, or toe issues cause discomfort and appetite loss. Treat injuries to resolve.
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Eye problems – Vision issues from retained eye caps or corneal ulcers make hunting difficult. Ensure proper humidity for sheds.
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Parasites – Heavy parasite loads cause appetite loss and lethargy. Seek vet treatment for medication.
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Metabolic bone disease – Improper calcium and D3 levels affect appetite. Provide proper supplementation.
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Shedding – Appetite often decreases before a shed. Maintain 50-60% humidity during sheds.
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Gravid female – Appetite changes are common in pregnant/egg-laying females. Offer food even if uneaten.
Getting Your African Fat-Tail to Eat Again
If your gecko is still active but not eating, try the following at home first before going to the vet:
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Check temperatures and adjust if needed – proper temperatures are critical.
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Make sure heat sources are working properly and are on a thermostat.
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Rule out impaction by providing a soak to pass blockage. Gentle massage can help too.
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Increase humidity and provide a humid hide if going into a shed.
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Ensure UVB bulbs are effective and replaced every 6 months.
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Remove eye caps gently if retained. Apply eyedrops if eye problems exist.
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Check for signs of injury or infection in the mouth. Antibiotics may be needed.
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Have fecal test done by vet to check for parasites. Treat if found.
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Use calcium + D3 supplement on all feeders to prevent deficiency.
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Try different feeder insects to stimulate appetite – dubia roaches often work.
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Limit handling and maintain proper day/night cycles to reduce stress.
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If female, provide additional calcium for developing eggs.
Be patient and keep offering food even if uneaten at first. Appetite often returns within 1-2 weeks using these methods. Seek vet assistance if weight loss or lethargy develop. With proper care, most cases of geckos not eating resolve on their own.
Pros and Cons of Keeping an African Fat-Tailed Gecko as a Pet
African fat-tailed geckos are nocturnal so they will be most active when most people are sleeping. If you want a pet that will be active during the day, a diurnal species may be a better option. If being nocturnal doesnt bother you though, African-fat tailed geckos are hardy pets for beginner reptile enthusiasts. They dont require fresh veggies be chopped everyday, take up minimal space, and are usually docile. Alternatively, they are fragile lizards due to their small size and have the ability to drop their tail, so adult supervision and careful handling is necessary to keep them safe.
Specific Substrate Needs
Since African fat-tailed geckos are native to Africa, these lizards are found in dry habitats naturally. They dont burrow or climb, so all you need alongside the hide to make them happy is some basic substrate. Paper towels, newspaper, butcher paper, etc. are popular choices, but if you want a more natural look, there are a variety of reptile soils that can also be used. Repticarpet is a great option for safe substrate that is easy to clean and not able to be digested by the lizard when eating its prey. It is recommended to avoid sand though to avoid the opportunity for an impaction to occur.
Gecko Won’t Eat? Try these 2 Tips!!
FAQ
How long can a fat-tailed gecko go without eating?
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Fat Storage:The African fat-tailed gecko stores fat in its tail, which serves as an important energy reserve.
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Feeding Frequency:
- Juveniles: Should be fed daily.
- Young Adults: Can be fed every other day or every three days.
- Adults: If their tail is fatter than their neck, they can be fed every five days.
- Juveniles: Should be fed daily.
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Longer Fasting:ReptiFiles states that if a gecko hasn’t eaten by the time the 2 weeks are over, do not handle and make an appointment with an experienced reptile vet.
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Extreme Cases:Some Leopard Geckos (a similar species) have been known to survive for several months without food in extreme cases, though this is not ideal.
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Importance of Water:Leopard Geckos, like African fat-tailed geckos, should always have access to clean, fresh drinking water, as they cannot survive for long when dehydrated.
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Signs of Concern:If your gecko stops eating for an extended period, especially if it also appears lethargic or thin, it’s crucial to consult with a reptile veterinarian.
What to do if your gecko is not eating?
- Temperature: Ensure the enclosure has a temperature gradient with a warm side (88-95°F) and a cool side (75-85°F).
- Humidity: Maintain appropriate humidity levels, especially during shedding.
- Enclosure Setup: Provide adequate hiding spots, a clean substrate, and a water bowl.
- Lighting: While not always necessary, some geckos benefit from a UVB light for vitamin D synthesis.
- Substrate: Use a substrate that is easy to clean and doesn’t pose a risk of impaction.
Do African fat-tailed geckos need a heat lamp?
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Temperature Gradient:African fat-tailed geckos thrive with a temperature gradient, meaning they need both a warm and a cool side to their enclosure.
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Basking Area:A basking area, created with a heat lamp or a basking spot, is crucial for them to regulate their body temperature.
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Heat Lamp Considerations:
- Halogen heat bulbs: These are a good option for providing basking temperatures, with a 50w bulb often being sufficient.
- Thermostat: A thermostat can help regulate the temperature and prevent overheating.
- Placement: The heat lamp should be placed on one side of the enclosure, creating a warm basking spot.
- Halogen heat bulbs: These are a good option for providing basking temperatures, with a 50w bulb often being sufficient.
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Nighttime Temperatures:While heat lamps can be turned off at night, the enclosure should still maintain a minimum temperature of around 65°F (18°C).
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Other Heating Options:
- Under Tank Heaters (UTHs): UTHs can be used to heat the bottom of the enclosure, but they require careful placement and monitoring to avoid overheating.
- Ceramic Heat Emitters (CHEs): CHEs provide heat without emitting light, which can be beneficial for nocturnal animals.
- Under Tank Heaters (UTHs): UTHs can be used to heat the bottom of the enclosure, but they require careful placement and monitoring to avoid overheating.
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Humidity:While they are native to arid environments, African fat-tailed geckos also need a source of humidity, which can be achieved through a humid hide or by misting the enclosure.
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UVB Lighting:While not essential, UVB lighting can be beneficial for their overall health and well-being.
Do African fat-tailed geckos like to be held?
- Docile and Tolerant: African fat-tailed geckos are known for their calm and laid-back demeanor, making them relatively easy to handle.
- Not Known to Bite: They are not typically aggressive and are unlikely to bite or scratch.
- Can Become Tame: With consistent handling and positive interactions, they can become comfortable and even approach their owners.
- Start Slowly: When first introducing yourself to a new gecko, start with short handling sessions to allow them to adjust to your presence.
- Handle with Care: Always support their bodies and avoid gripping their tails, as they can detach them if stressed.
- Juveniles may be more skittish
- Always monitor their behavior
- Some geckos may just be “not in the mood”