What Breed of Geckos Make the Best Pets? A Complete Guide to Geckos as Pets.

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Geckos are small lizards that are found in warm climates all over the world. They are known for their unique ability to climb walls and ceilings due to their sticky toes, which are covered in small hairs that create a molecular attraction to surfaces. There are over 1,500 species of geckos, but only a handful of them are commonly kept as pets.

Why Geckos as Pets?

Geckos make great pets for several reasons. They are quiet, don’t require much space, and are relatively low maintenance compared to other pets. They are also fascinating to watch, with their unique ability to climb and their wide variety of colors and patterns. Unlike other reptiles, such as snakes, geckos are not typically aggressive and are relatively easy to handle.

Gecko Species

There are several breeds of geckos that make great pets. Here are some of the most popular:

Leopard Gecko

Leopard geckos are one of the most popular breeds of geckos kept as pets. They are native to the deserts of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of India. They come in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, and brown, and have distinctive black spots all over their bodies. They are docile and relatively easy to handle, making them a great pet for beginners.

Crested Gecko

Crested geckos are another popular breed of gecko kept as pets. They are native to New Caledonia, a small island in the Pacific Ocean. They are named for the crest of skin that runs from their eyes to their tail. They come in a variety of colors, including brown, orange, and green, and have a unique, spiky appearance. They are docile and relatively easy to care for, making them a great pet for beginners.

Tokay Gecko

Tokay geckos are named for the loud “to-kay” sound they make when they feel threatened. They are native to Southeast Asia and the western Pacific. They are known for their bright blue and orange coloring, and their distinctive red eyes. They can be aggressive and difficult to handle, making them better suited for experienced reptile owners.

Gargoyle Gecko

Gargoyle geckos are native to the island of New Caledonia, just like crested geckos. They are named for their unique appearance, which resembles a gargoyle statue. They come in a variety of colors, including brown, orange, and green, and have a bumpy, textured skin. They are relatively docile and easy to handle, making them a great pet for beginners.

African Fat-Tailed Gecko

African fat-tailed geckos are native to West Africa. They are named for their distinctive fat, fleshy tails. They come in a variety of colors, including brown, orange, and yellow, and have a unique, bumpy appearance. They are docile and easy to handle, making them a great pet for beginners.

House Gecko

House geckos are a small breed of gecko that are native to Southeast Asia. They are often kept as pets because of their small size and easy-to-care-for nature. They are typically light brown or grey in color and have a smooth, shiny appearance. They are docile and relatively easy to handle, making them a great pet for beginners.

Madagascar Day Gecko

Madagascar day geckos are native to the island of Madagascar. They are known for their bright green color and distinctive red markings around their eyes. They are active and curious, making them a great pet for those who want a more interactive experience with their pet gecko. They can be aggressive and difficult to handle, making them better suited for experienced reptile owners.

Choosing the Right Gecko

When choosing a gecko, there are several factors to consider.

Considerations Before Choosing a Gecko

Before choosing a gecko, consider the amount of space you have available, your budget, and your level of experience with reptiles. Some geckos require more space and more specialized care than others. Some geckos can be more expensive to purchase and care for than others. And some geckos are better suited for experienced reptile owners, while others are better suited for beginners.

Where to Buy a Gecko

Geckos can be purchased from pet stores or breeders. It’s important to choose a reputable breeder or pet store that specializes in reptiles and has a good reputation. Avoid purchasing geckos from pet stores that do not specialize in reptiles or from online retailers that do not have a good reputation.

Caring for Your Gecko

Caring for a gecko requires some basic knowledge of their needs.

Enclosure Setup

Geckos require a terrarium or enclosure that is specifically designed for their needs. The enclosure should include a secure lid, as geckos are known for their ability to escape. The enclosure should also include a hiding spot, such as a small cave or box, as well as a water dish and a food dish.

Temperature and Humidity

Geckos require a specific temperature range and humidity level in their enclosure. The temperature should be between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, and slightly cooler at night. The humidity level should be between 50 and 70 percent.

Feeding Your Gecko

Geckos are insectivores and require a diet of live insects, such as crickets and mealworms. They should be fed every other day or so, and their food should be dusted with a calcium supplement to ensure they are getting the proper nutrients.

Handling and Bonding with Your Gecko

Geckos can be handled and even trained to recognize their owners. However, it’s important to handle them gently and not to force them if they don’t want to be handled. Bonding with your gecko can take time and patience, but it can be a rewarding experience for both you and your pet.

Common Health Issues

Like all pets, geckos can experience health issues.

Mites and Parasites

Geckos can be prone to mites and other parasites, which can cause skin irritation and other health issues. It’s important to keep their enclosure clean and to take them to the vet if you suspect they have any health issues.

Metabolic Bone Disease

Metabolic bone disease is a common health issue in geckos that can be caused by improper diet and lack of exposure to UVB light. Symptoms include lethargy, loss of appetite, and weakness. It’s important to provide your gecko with a varied and balanced diet, as well as a UVB light source.

Respiratory Infections

Geckos can also experience respiratory infections, which can be caused by poor husbandry or exposure to other sick geckos. Symptoms include wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing. It’s important to take your gecko to the vet if you suspect they have a respiratory infection.

Conclusion

Geckos make great pets for those who are interested in reptiles. They are low-maintenance, come in a variety of unique colors and patterns, and are relatively easy to care for compared to other reptiles. When choosing a gecko, it’s important to consider your level of experience, the space you have available, and your budget. By following the proper care guidelines and being aware of common health issues, you can ensure that your gecko will be a happy and healthy pet for years to come.

ThePetFaq Team
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