Do Crested Geckos Shed? The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Geckos

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Crested geckos, also known as eyelash geckos, are a species of geckos native to New Caledonia, a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean. They are tree-dwelling creatures that can grow to be around 8 inches long and live up to 20 years in captivity. Crested geckos are omnivorous, which means they eat both insects and fruits. They are also nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night.

Why Shedding is Important

Shedding is an essential process for all reptiles, including crested geckos. It helps them get rid of old skin and grow new skin. As they grow, their skin stretches, and the outer layer becomes too tight for their body. Shedding is a natural process that allows them to get rid of the old skin and replace it with new, healthy skin. If your crested gecko doesn’t shed correctly, it can lead to serious health problems, including infections, skin damage, and even death.

Understanding Crested Gecko Shedding

When Do Crested Geckos Shed?

Crested geckos shed their skin every four to eight weeks. However, the frequency of shedding may vary depending on their age, size, environment, and overall health. Younger geckos tend to shed more frequently than older ones. You can tell if your crested gecko is about to shed by looking for signs such as cloudy eyes, dull skin, and decreased appetite.

What Happens During Shedding?

During shedding, your crested gecko’s skin will become dull and cloudy. Their eyes may also appear cloudy or bluish. This is because they are secreting a fluid from the skin that will help them shed. After a few days, the old skin will start to peel off, starting from the head and working its way down the body. Once the shedding process is complete, your gecko will have shiny, new skin.

Common Shedding Issues

While shedding is a natural process for crested geckos, there are some common issues that you may encounter. One of the most common issues is incomplete shedding. If your gecko doesn’t shed its skin correctly, it can cause skin damage, infections, and other health problems. Another issue that you may encounter is retained eye caps. This occurs when the gecko’s eye caps don’t shed off with the rest of the skin. If this happens, you need to seek medical attention from a veterinarian.

How to Help Your Crested Gecko Shed

Creating the Right Environment

Creating the right environment for your crested gecko is crucial for their shedding process. Make sure the temperature and humidity levels in their enclosure are appropriate. The ideal temperature for crested geckos is between 72 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit, while the humidity levels should be around 50 to 70 percent. You can achieve the right humidity levels by misting their enclosure regularly and providing a water dish.

Feeding and Hydration

Proper feeding and hydration are also important for your gecko’s shedding process. Make sure to provide a balanced diet that includes both insects and fruits. You can feed them crickets, mealworms, and waxworms, as well as mashed fruits such as bananas and papayas. Make sure to provide fresh water every day and mist their enclosure regularly to keep them hydrated.

Handling and Stress Management

Handling and stress management are also crucial for your gecko’s shedding process. Avoid handling them when they are shedding, as it can cause them stress and disrupt the shedding process. Make sure their enclosure is in a quiet and stress-free area, and avoid sudden movements or loud noises that can startle them.

Crested Gecko Shedding FAQs

How Often Should Crested Geckos Shed?

Crested geckos shed their skin every four to eight weeks, but the frequency may vary depending on their age, size, and overall health.

What Happens if a Crested Gecko Doesn’t Shed?

If your crested gecko doesn’t shed correctly, it can cause health problems such as skin damage, infections, and even death. If you notice any signs of incomplete shedding, seek medical attention from a veterinarian.

Can You Help a Crested Gecko with Shedding?

Yes, you can help your crested gecko with shedding. Make sure to provide the right environment, feeding, hydration, and stress management to help them shed properly. You can also provide a humid hide to help them shed their skin more easily.

Conclusion

Crested gecko shedding is a natural process that is crucial for their health and well-being. As a responsible pet owner, it’s essential to understand their shedding process and provide them with the right environment, feeding, hydration, and stress management. By following the tips in this ultimate guide, you can ensure that your crested gecko sheds properly and stays healthy. Remember, if you notice any signs of incomplete shedding or other health problems, seek medical attention from a veterinarian.

ThePetFaq Team
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