I have a crested gecko and he has been very lethargic lately. He's not eating, not climbing, and spending most of his time on the ground.

Updated On January 31st, 2017

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

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Anytime a reptile becomes excessively lethargic, you must check the ambient and basking temperatures. Low temps can dramatically affect activity and appetite. Set daytime temps between 78 F and 82 F . Night temps can drop into the low 70s F. A small basking area set at around 80 F should be provided. They are nocturnal, so don't expect a lot of daytime activity. Offer a variety of appropriately sized prey (crickets, dubia roaches, etc.) as well as a commercial gecko diet. You may need to hold prey in front of him or tap his nose to elicit a strike. Do not attempt to force feed him. Soak him in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte. Gently stroking his abdomen during the soak may produce a bowel movement if he hasn't been defecating. The soak will treat or prevent mild dehydration. If he continues to exhibit this behavior or does not start eating, have him examined by an experienced herp veterinarian. Submit a stool sample to diagnose intestinal parasites.

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