Supplements

A gecko eating a complete powdered diet usually needs no extra supplements, because calcium, vitamin D3 and other nutrients are already in the formula. Adding more can do harm, since too much vitamin D3 and some minerals build up in the body.

Supplements matter mainly if you feed insects regularly:

• Dust insects lightly with a reptile calcium powder just before feeding
• Follow the product label on whether to use calcium with or without D3, since the right choice depends on whether the gecko has UVB and what the main diet contains
• Do not dust every feeding; a light coating a few times a month is typical for occasional insects

Never stack several supplements together without a reason, and never guess at doses. If you are unsure what your gecko needs, ask an exotic vet.

Signs of a calcium problem (metabolic bone disease) include trembling, a soft or rubbery jaw, a crooked spine, trouble climbing and a gecko that stays on the floor. Some geckos have a kinked tail from genetics alone, but any of these other signs together warrant a vet visit right away.

Good husbandry prevents most problems: a quality complete diet, correct temperatures and clean water do more for your gecko than additional powders.