My gecko lost its tail. How to care for an injured gecko and tank?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Reptile | Gecko
I bought a wounded baby gecko, I mean wounded because it's tail is gone. I'm not sure how old or what gender it is yet because of it missing its tail. My questions are I put a piece of clean dried drift wood & some dried out lemons & oranges in its aquarium is that ok or harmful? I also added moisture to its substrate & shallow dish of calcium powder & crickets sprinkled with it. Its tail don't seem to growing. Its only 3+half inches long,any suggestions would be great. Please & thank you
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on March 3rd, 2019
Remove the citrus fruit. It won't do anything but perhaps attract pests. Remove any loose substrate as well. Use reptile carpet or paper towels until the tail regenerates. If Skully is a crested gecko, the tail will not regenerate. If the stump is "open" clean it gently using a cotton swab and diluted Betadine. After it is dry, dab a thin layer of triple antibiotic ointment on it. Do this daily until it is healed. The tail should regenerate in about 4 weeks. Continue to provide proper environmental parameters and an appropriate diet to promote healing and overall health.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on May 9th, 2018
if you can keep the area clean, then leave him there. Losing a tail is stressful enough without dealing with a new environment. Change the paper towels daily or every second day. Have food and water available at all times. Monitor for redness, swelling or discharge. See your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet if necessary. Given a clean environment, the stump should heal on its own. Crested geckos do not regrow their tails.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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