How Often to Feed a Crested Gecko: A Complete Guide

How Often to Feed a Crested Gecko: A Complete Guide

How Often to Feed a Crested Gecko: A Complete Guide

Wondering how often to feed your crested gecko? You’re not alone. Proper feeding is one of the most important parts of gecko care — and it can vary depending on their age and health. This guide will show you how often to feed your crested gecko, what foods to offer, and how to avoid common mistakes.

What Do Crested Geckos Eat?

Crested geckos are omnivores. Their diet includes:

  • Commercial gecko diet (CGD): A powdered fruit/protein blend designed for geckos.
  • Feeder insects: Dubia roaches, crickets, or black soldier fly larvae.
  • Occasional fruit: Mashed banana, mango, or papaya (treat only).

Pro tip: Dubia roaches are ideal for crested geckos. They’re protein-rich, clean, and easy to digest. Shop dubia roaches here.

Feeding Schedule by Age

Hatchlings (0–6 months)

  • Feed daily with commercial gecko diet.
  • Offer small feeder insects 2–3 times per week.
  • Feed in the evening when they’re most active.

Juveniles (6–12 months)

  • Feed 4–5 times per week.
  • Alternate between CGD and insects.

Adults (12+ months)

  • Feed every other day (around 3 times per week).
  • Insects 1–2 times weekly for variety.

Signs You’re Feeding the Right Amount

  • Healthy weight with a slightly plump tail.
  • Active and alert at night.
  • Regular droppings and consistent appetite.
  • Normal shedding every 4–6 weeks.

Temporary loss of appetite is common during shedding or in cooler temperatures.

Common Feeding Mistakes

  • Overfeeding insects – leads to obesity and picky eating.
  • Underfeeding young geckos – can stunt growth and weaken the immune system.
  • Using wild-caught insects – risk of parasites or pesticides.
  • Not misting enough – crested geckos prefer to lick water droplets, not drink from bowls.

Best Insects for Crested Geckos

Dubia roaches are one of the best feeder insects for crested geckos:

  • High in protein and nutrients
  • Low in fat
  • Quiet and odorless
  • Can’t escape or fly like crickets

Learn more about why dubia roaches are the ideal feeder here.

Final Feeding Tips

  • Use shallow dishes for gecko diet.
  • Remove uneaten food within 24 hours to avoid mold.
  • Dust insects with calcium + D3 once per week.
  • Observe your gecko’s appetite and energy levels.

Conclusion

Feeding your crested gecko isn’t one-size-fits-all. Young geckos need daily food to grow, while adults do best on a consistent 3-day-per-week routine. Use a high-quality CGD and supplement with nutritious insects like dubia roaches to keep your gecko healthy and active.

🛒 Need high-quality feeders? Shop dubia roaches here at HealthyDubia.com

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