Why is my house gecko dragging legs, constipated, and not eating?

Question

My Mediterranean house gecko is not able to move his rear legs and I haven't seen feces in more than a week. He moves by dragging himself on his front legs and has been eating very little. I believe this is due to nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism, as I have (regrettably but realistically) been failing to provide him with a lot of calcium, D3, and UV exposure. What steps can be taken to help him gain back his health and regain his ability to move his rear legs and tail? Thank you.

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

Most house geckos are nocturnal and do not require UVA/UVB lighting, but it won't harm them. Ideally, Dartzilla should be examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles to diagnose illness or injury. The paralysis may be compounded by constipation, especially since there has been no stool recently. Soak Dartzilla in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored Pedialyte for 15-20 minutes. This will provide warmth and hydration. Both can aid in digestion and promote GI motility. A gentle abdominal massage, front to back, during the soak may stimulate defecation. Offer appropriately sized prey, no bigger than the space between his eyes. Gut load them for 24 hours prior to offering to maximize nutritional value. You can use a quality fish flake or high protein baby cereal for this. Rep-Cal Herptivite and Rep-Cal Calcium with Vitamin D3 are the gold standards for vitamin and mineral supplementation. You can find them online or in the local Petco. Follow label directions for dusting prey.

Why is my house gecko dragging legs, constipated, and not eating?

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