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What UVB bulb is right for my crested gecko, and how old is he?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Reptile | Gecko | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 29 days old

Hi there. So I am looking into getting a heat dome for my crested gecko. I know they don’t have to have a heat lam but I want him to have a UVB bulb Because it’s good for them. But I am not quite sure that type to get. Any suggestions? I was looking at petco’s tropical combo pack. He lives in a 10 g. With live plant. (I will upgrade when he is bigger) also do you know an age on him? I got him 3 months ago from petsmart. I could tell he was a male a week after I got him. (Pic from yesterday)

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on December 7th, 2018

A heat lamp isn't necessary unless the room where the cage is located is cold. Cresties do just fine at room temperature. A UVB light source isn't necessary either as long as you feed a diet containing adequate levels of Vitamon D3. That said, either won't harm him and it is a matter of personal preference. Be sure to monitor cage temps to make sure they don't go too high. There was no image attached to this question. Age can be difficult to determine if you don't have a hatch date. The reason being that growth can be dramatically affected by diet and environment. Contact the PetSmart where he was purchased. They should have records from the source/breeder which should include a hatch date or age.

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    Answered By Todd Cecil

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Thanks for reaching out about Oakley, but don't have access to pictures from yesterday. As you stated, exposure to UVB is important, for calcium metabolism in the body. As to the size of the bulb, purchasing a bulb and then installing a rheostat or dimmer switch in line will allow control of intensity. This is also useful of rhea support, as seasonal environmental temperatures will alter the wattage necessary for heat. Adding a timer will bypass remembering to turn on or off. Good luck.

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