Why Isn’t My Leopard Gecko Shedding

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Leopard geckos are known for their smooth and shiny skin, which they shed regularly as they grow. However, when your leopard gecko stops shedding, it can be a sign of a health issue or an underlying problem that needs to be addressed. In this article, we will explore the reasons why your leopard gecko may not be shedding and what you can do to help.

 

Understanding the Shedding Process in Leopard Geckos

Before we dive into the reasons why your leopard gecko may not be shedding, it’s important to understand the shedding process in these reptiles. Leopard geckos shed their skin in one piece, which is known as ecdysis. The process typically takes a few hours and is usually completed overnight. The old skin will peel away from the body, revealing a new, smooth layer of skin underneath.

 

During the shedding process, your leopard gecko may appear to be lethargic and have a dull appearance. This is normal and should only last a few days. If your leopard gecko does not shed for a prolonged period of time, it may be a sign of a health issue or an underlying problem.

 

Common Reasons Why Your Leopard Gecko Isn’t Shedding

Poor Environment: Leopard geckos require specific conditions to thrive, including proper temperature, humidity levels, and adequate space. If your leopard gecko is not shedding, it could be a sign that its environment is not suitable for shedding. Ensure that the temperature in your leopard gecko’s enclosure is between 80-90°F, with a basking spot of 95°F. The humidity levels should be between 40-60% and the enclosure should provide enough space for your leopard gecko to move around comfortably.

 

Dehydration: Leopard geckos need access to clean water at all times, and they also require proper humidity levels to shed their skin properly. If your leopard gecko is dehydrated, it may have trouble shedding its skin. Ensure that your leopard gecko has access to fresh water, and mist its skin with water regularly to increase the humidity levels.

 

Inadequate Diet: Leopard geckos need a balanced diet that provides them with the nutrients they need to maintain their health and shed their skin. If your leopard gecko is not getting the right nutrients, it may have trouble shedding. Feed your leopard gecko a diet of live insects, such as crickets and mealworms, and offer a calcium supplement regularly to ensure it is getting all the nutrients it needs.

 

Health Issues: If your leopard gecko is not shedding, it may have a health issue that is preventing it from shedding. Common health problems that can cause skin shedding issues include parasitic infections, skin infections, and skin irritation. If you suspect your leopard gecko has a health issue, consult with a veterinarian to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

 

Solutions for Helping Your Leopard Gecko Shed

Provide a humid hide box: A humid hide box is an area that provides a higher level of humidity, which helps to soften and loosen the skin, making it easier for the gecko to shed. You can create a humid hide box by adding moist sphagnum moss, coconut coir, or other substrate to a plastic container and keeping the lid slightly ajar.

 

Offer a shallow water dish: Keeping a shallow dish of water in the enclosure can help increase the humidity level, making it easier for the gecko to shed. Ensure the water is not too deep and the gecko can easily get in and out without drowning.

 

Bathe the gecko: Bathing the gecko in warm water can help to soften the skin and make it easier to shed. Use a shallow container, such as a plastic container, and fill it with warm water up to the gecko’s waist. Let the gecko soak for about 10-15 minutes, then gently rub the skin to help loosen any stuck pieces.

 

Provide a rough surface: A rough surface, such as a piece of sandpaper or a shedding rock, can help the gecko to naturally shed by rubbing against it. Ensure the surface is not too rough, as it can damage the gecko’s skin.

 

Offer a balanced diet: A balanced diet with the right vitamins and minerals can help ensure the gecko’s skin stays healthy and sheds properly. Offer a variety of insects, such as crickets and mealworms, and dust them with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements.

 

Avoid handling the gecko: Handling the gecko during shedding can cause stress and make it harder for the gecko to shed properly. Avoid handling the gecko during this time and provide a calm and stress-free environment.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several reasons why a leopard gecko may not be shedding properly. These include improper humidity levels, skin infections, improper diet, and stress. It is important to maintain the proper habitat and diet for your leopard gecko to ensure they shed properly and stay healthy. If you are having trouble getting your leopard gecko to shed, it is best to consult with a veterinarian who can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend a solution. Remember that a healthy leopard gecko is a happy leopard gecko, so take the time to ensure that your pet is getting the proper care and attention it needs.

Martin Rodriguez

Martin Rodriguez

Leopard Geckos are awesome!

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