How Long Can Crested Geckos Safely Go Without Eating?

Last Updated: January 25, 2023

Sometimes, a crested gecko stops eating. It is not unusual for this to happen, but you might be worried about when this becomes dangerous. How long can a crested gecko go without eating safely?

Crested geckos can go without eating food for up to 3 weeks. Consult with a vet after the second week. A crested gecko can only go without water for three days. There are many reasons why a crested gecko might not eat, but a stressful environment is the most common cause.

Crested geckos do not need to eat daily.

Living In The Wild

In the wild, crested geckos would look for food every day. Some days they would find plenty to eat, while food may be scarce on others. Their bodies can endure the feast and famine of fending for themselves.

Why does this matter to us?

It tells us that periods of not eating are natural for crested geckos. And knowing that may offer some keepers a bit of relief.

Water is a constant in the humid rainforests they call home. Even when they can’t find food, they get plenty to drink.

A white spotted crested gecko hangs on a stick over a glass food bowl. Its body points down toward the meal but its head is pointed up and away.

Living With Us

A tiny crested gecko walks on the edge of a ceramic food bowl. A tiny amount of food is blurry in the bowl.

Not eating is a typical occurrence with pet lizards as well.

It is common for a crested gecko to refrain from eating for as many as two weeks while they adjust to a new home. 

If you just brought your crestie home, don’t worry if they don’t seem to have an appetite. Your best course of action is to feed them a healthy diet of CGD on schedule. 

Also, mist their enclosure regularly so they can stay hydrated. If they have the right size tank for their size, plenty of hides, and time without being handled to adjust to their new home, they should begin eating. But, if they aren’t eating after two weeks, get help from your vet.

Sometimes it can be difficult to tell whether or not a crested gecko has eaten. If your pet’s weight is stable or increasing, chances are they are getting enough to eat. 

If you notice rapid weight loss, reach out for help right away. Your veterinarian can do an exam and guide you on the next steps.

Conclusion

Crested geckos can go three weeks without food and three days without water. 

Skipping a meal or two is common, but consult a vet after two weeks or if your pet is losing weight.

Further reading: What are some simple things to do if your crested gecko won’t eat?

A frog butt crestie turns his head away from a pair of tongs holding a black soldier fly larvae up to his mouth. How long can a crested go without eating such tasty treats?
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