Can Crested Geckos Benefit from a Vegetable Diet? A Guide for Owners

Crested geckos, also known as eyelash geckos, are native to New Caledonia and were once thought to be extinct. However, they were rediscovered in the early 1990s and have since become a popular pet due to their unique appearance and docile nature. Crested geckos are arboreal and primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night and prefer to climb and hide in trees during the day.

What Do Crested Geckos Normally Eat?

In the wild, crested geckos primarily feed on insects and fruit. In captivity, owners typically feed their crested geckos commercially produced diets made from a combination of fruits and insects. These diets are formulated to provide a balanced diet for crested geckos and are widely available at pet stores and online.

Insect-Based Diets

Insect-based diets are an important part of a crested gecko’s diet. Insects provide a source of protein and other essential nutrients that cannot be obtained from fruits and vegetables alone. Common insects fed to crested geckos include crickets, mealworms, and waxworms.

Fruit-Based Diets

Fruit-based diets are also an important part of a crested gecko’s diet. Fruits provide a source of vitamins and minerals that are essential for a healthy diet. Common fruits fed to crested geckos include papaya, mango, and banana.

How Much Should Crested Geckos Be Fed?

The amount of food a crested gecko should be fed depends on its age, size, and activity level. Generally, adult crested geckos should be fed every other day, while juveniles should be fed daily. Owners should monitor their crested geckos’ weight and adjust their feeding accordingly.

The Benefits of Incorporating Vegetables in Crested Gecko Diets

While crested geckos primarily feed on insects and fruit, some owners have begun incorporating vegetables into their crested gecko’s diet. There are several benefits to incorporating vegetables into a crested gecko’s diet.

Nutritional Benefits

Vegetables provide a source of vitamins and minerals that are essential for a healthy diet. By incorporating vegetables into a crested gecko’s diet, owners can ensure that their pet is receiving a well-balanced diet.

Health Benefits

Incorporating vegetables into a crested gecko’s diet can also provide health benefits. Vegetables are high in fiber, which can promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation. Additionally, some vegetables have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.

What Vegetables Should Be Fed to Crested Geckos?

While vegetables can be a healthy addition to a crested gecko’s diet, not all vegetables are safe for them to eat. Some vegetables may contain harmful compounds that can be toxic to crested geckos. Owners should research which vegetables are safe for their crested geckos to eat before incorporating them into their diet.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are a good source of vitamins and minerals for crested geckos. Some safe leafy greens to feed to crested geckos include kale, collard greens, and dandelion greens.

Other Vegetables

Other safe vegetables to feed to crested geckos include squash, sweet potato, and green beans. Owners should avoid feeding their crested geckos vegetables that are high in oxalates, such as spinach and beet greens.

How to Feed Crested Geckos a Vegetable Diet

If owners decide to incorporate vegetables into their crested gecko’s diet, it is important to do so properly.

How to Properly Prepare Vegetables

Vegetables should be chopped into small, bite-sized pieces to make them easier for crested geckos to eat. Owners should also wash vegetables thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides.

How Often Should Vegetables be Fed?

Vegetables should be fed in moderation and should not make up the majority of a crested gecko’s diet. Owners should start by feeding their crested gecko a small amount of vegetables and gradually increase the amount over time.

Potential Risks of Feeding Vegetables to Crested Geckos

While incorporating vegetables into a crested gecko’s diet can provide several benefits, there are also potential risks to be aware of.

Oxalates

Some vegetables, such as spinach and beet greens, are high in oxalates, which can bind to calcium and prevent it from being absorbed by the body. This can lead to metabolic bone disease in crested geckos.

Pesticides

Vegetables that are not washed thoroughly can contain harmful pesticides that can be toxic to crested geckos. Owners should always wash vegetables thoroughly before feeding them to their pets.

Conclusion

Incorporating vegetables into a crested gecko’s diet can provide several benefits, including nutritional and health benefits. However, owners should be aware of the potential risks and should research which vegetables are safe for their crested geckos to eat before incorporating them into their diet. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, owners can ensure that their crested geckos are receiving a well-balanced diet that includes vegetables.

ThePetFaq Team