Crested Gecko Feeding Schedule

Crested Gecko Feeding Schedule

One of the most common questions new crested gecko keepers ask is how often to feed. The good news is that crested geckos are easy to feed and forgiving — but a consistent schedule keeps them healthy and makes it easier to spot any changes in appetite.

Back to the Crested Gecko Diet guide | Crested Gecko Care Sheet | Gecko Care Hub

Feeding Schedule by Age

Juveniles (0–6 months)

  • CGD: Fresh mix every day — juveniles are growing fast and need consistent nutrition
  • Live insects: 2–3 times per week, appropriately sized (no wider than the space between the eyes)
  • Supplements: Dust insects with calcium at every live feeding; multivitamin once per week

Sub-adults (6–12 months)

  • CGD: Fresh mix every 1–2 days
  • Live insects: 2 times per week
  • Supplements: Calcium at every live feeding; multivitamin every 1–2 weeks

Adults (12 months+)

  • CGD: Fresh mix every 2–3 days
  • Live insects: 1–2 times per week
  • Supplements: Calcium at every live feeding; multivitamin every 1–2 weeks

Breeding Females

  • CGD: Fresh mix every day or every other day — egg production is nutritionally demanding
  • Live insects: 2–3 times per week for extra protein
  • Supplements: Calcium at every live feeding; additional calcium supplementation is important to prevent metabolic bone disease

Practical Feeding Tips

  • Always offer CGD in the evening when your gecko is naturally active — they are more likely to eat at dusk and overnight
  • Remove and replace any uneaten CGD after 24–48 hours to prevent spoilage and bacterial growth
  • Use a magnetic feeding ledge to present CGD at height where crested geckos naturally forage
  • Track how much your gecko is eating — a sudden drop in appetite can be an early sign of illness, stress or shedding
  • Always provide fresh water in a shallow dish, changed every 1–2 days

Seasonal Appetite Changes

It is normal for crested geckos to eat less during cooler months, particularly in winter. As long as your gecko maintains a healthy weight and body condition, a reduced appetite in winter is not usually a cause for concern. Weigh your gecko monthly to monitor condition — a healthy adult should feel firm and not show prominent hip or shoulder bones.

What If My Gecko Won't Eat?

A short-term refusal to eat (a few days to a week) is common and usually not serious. Possible causes include:

  • Shedding — geckos often go off food just before a shed
  • Temperature too high or too low
  • Stress from handling, enclosure changes or environmental disturbances
  • Disliking a new CGD flavour — try switching brands or flavours

If your gecko refuses food for more than 2–3 weeks or shows signs of weight loss, consult a reptile vet.

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