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My leopard gecko isn't eating and his tail is too skinny. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I have a male leopard gecko, probably about a year old. Recently he's just stopped eating. Won't eat any worms or crickets. I've tried giving him a calorie supplement, nothing. Tried honey, calcium, he just wipes it off. His tail is way too skinny, but he's pooping. Brown with the white for urine. I don't have an exotic animal vet. His tank is warm, he's got an under the tank heater, a warm side and cool side and he's on paper towels. I'm at a loss

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on June 16th, 2018

Make sure any prey is of appropriate size, no bigger than the space between the eyes. Confirm again that temps are within normal ranges. Low temps will affect appetite in reptiles. Soak him in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte for 20 minutes daily. You can supplement with Fluker's Repta Boost. Find it in the local Petco. Look him over for any signs of injury or infection. This may include redness, swelling, discharge, bruising, bleeding or odd lumps/bumps. If he doesn't begin eating, you will need to have him physically examined by an experienced herp vet. I will include a link below to find one as well as a link to review leopard gecko care. http://www.anapsid.org/leopardgek.html https://arav.site-ym.com/search/custom.asp?id=3661

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on March 27th, 2018

    To diagnose stick tail, you would need to have April physically examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. A stool sample will be needed to diagnose the organism responsible. Weigh her every few days and keep track. Check temps to make sure she isn't cold. Low temps can affect appetite and activity in reptiles. Keep food available at all times, but do not leave live prey in her enclosure.

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