Do Lizards Eat Their Shedded Skin

When Geckos Shed, Does It Affect Their Appetite?

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Like other reptiles, your gecko will shed his skin on a regular footing. Different many other reptiles' shed peel, nonetheless, the expressionless pare comes off the gecko in strips and pieces rather than every bit i large section. Monitor your gecko closely during this time to make sure that no pieces of one-time skin are left, especially on the toes where it can restrict blood flow.

Normal Shedding Behavior

It is normal for a gecko to stop eating entirely or eat very little when he is shedding. Nearly geckos swallow only once every two to four days, then information technology may accept some time to realize that he has stopped eating. For his wellness, remove whatever leftover food from the enclosure when he is shedding. Alive food, such every bit crickets, may irritate his sensitive skin; while dead food is a breeding ground for bacteria. Resume your gecko's normal feeding schedule every bit soon equally he is washed shedding.

Shedding Frequency

A gecko's shedding cycle is tied to growth rather than to a schedule or flavor. This ways that young geckos who are growing rapidly will shed much more frequently than adults. You tin tell that your gecko is most to shed, considering his skin will get boring and the colors will be muted. Just prior to shedding, he may appear to have a white veil or coating over his skin.

How Yous Can Help

Since this is a stressful time for your gecko, requite him a dark, quiet place to shed where he feels safety and secure. It may be necessary to put a screen or barrier in forepart of his enclosure if it is located in a decorated room. He besides needs plenty of moisture to continue the dead, shedding peel from drying besides quickly and adhering to his trunk. Increase the humidity in his enclosure or give him a "moist box, a container with moisture newspaper towels inside, where he can spend fourth dimension while shedding.

Other Problems

A few other circumstances could cause a captive gecko to stop eating. If he is stressed due to a change in habitat or the addition of other geckos, for example, he may not eat for a few days. If the temperature of his enclosure is also low, his body function may slow down and his appetite will drop. Utilize a high-quality thermometer to monitor the temperature, and increase the amount of heat every bit needed. Internal parasites can crusade a gecko to lose his appetite. Check with your veterinary if you suspect parasites.

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