9 Common Diseases and Health Problems in Gargoyle Geckos

As the pet owner of a gargoyle gecko, it is crucial to know and understand the symptoms, treatments, and precautions of the common diseases that gargoyle geckos are prone to suffer from.

In this article, we have made such lists of the symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention of some of the diseases that a gargoyle gecko may suffer from in its lifetime.

Common Diseases and Health Problems in Gargoyle Geckos

As wild creatures, gargoyle geckos are prone to a lot of infections or diseases that may happen in the wild.

In captivity, the scope of such illnesses reduces substantially. However, there are still some common health issues that affect pet gargoyle geckos as well. Some of them have been listed below.

Dehydration

Dehydration is a serious condition that can affect gargoyle geckos of all ages.

It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of dehydration so that you can seek treatment for your gecko as soon as possible.

Symptoms

Symptoms of dehydration in gargoyle geckos:

• Sunken eyes
• Dry skin
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty shedding
• Constipation
• Weight loss

Causes

Causes of dehydration in gargoyle geckos:

• Lack of access to water
• Hot and dry environment
• Illness
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Parasites

Treatment

If you suspect that your gargoyle gecko is dehydrated, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.

The veterinarian will be able to assess the severity of the dehydration and provide the necessary treatment.

Treatment for dehydration in gargoyle geckos typically involves administering fluids subcutaneously (under the skin). This helps to rehydrate the gecko quickly and safely.

In some cases, the veterinarian may also prescribe medication to treat the underlying cause of the dehydration, such as parasites or an infection.

Prevention

The best way to prevent dehydration in gargoyle geckos is to provide them with access to fresh water at all times. The water bowl should be cleaned and refilled daily.

It is also important to maintain a humid environment in the gecko’s enclosure. This can be done by misting the enclosure regularly or by using a humidifier.

Finally, it is important to monitor your gargoyle gecko’s health and well-being closely. If you notice any signs or symptoms of dehydration, be sure to seek veterinary care immediately.

Floppy Tail Syndrome

Floppy tail syndrome (FTS) is a condition that can affect gargoyle geckos, as well as other species of geckos.

It is characterized by a weakening of the tail muscles, which causes the tail to droop or hang limp.

Symptoms

The most obvious symptom of FTS is a floppy or drooping tail. In severe cases, the tail may even become paralyzed.

Other symptoms of FTS may include difficulty climbing, difficulty defecating, and difficulty laying eggs.

Causes

The exact cause of FTS is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Genetics: Some gargoyle geckos are simply more genetically predisposed to developing FTS than others.
• Diet: A poor diet can also contribute to FTS. Make sure to feed your gargoyle gecko a variety of insects and fruits.
• Environment: A poor environment can also lead to FTS. This includes things like a terrarium that is too small, too cold, or too dry.

Treatment

There is no cure for FTS, but there are some things that can be done to manage the condition and improve the gecko’s quality of life.

• Diet: Feed your gecko a healthy diet and make sure that it has access to fresh water at all times.
• Environment: Make sure that your gecko’s terrarium is the appropriate size and that it is properly heated and humidified.
• Supplements: You can also give your gecko supplements, such as calcium and vitamin D3, to help support its bone and muscle health.

Prevention

The best way to prevent FTS is to provide your gargoyle gecko with a healthy diet and a proper environment.

You should also avoid handling your gecko too often, as this can stress it out and make it more susceptible to illness.

If you notice that your gargoyle gecko has a floppy or drooping tail, it is important to see a veterinarian right away.

The veterinarian will be able to rule out any other underlying medical conditions and develop a treatment plan for your gecko.

Mites

Mites are tiny parasites that can live on the skin and in the ears, nose, and mouth of reptiles.

They can cause a variety of health problems, including skin irritation, anemia, and even death.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of mites in gargoyle geckos is excessive scratching. Other symptoms may include:

• Weight loss
• Lethargy
• Anemia
• Pale gums
• Black pepper-like specks on the skin
• Hair loss
• Crusty scabs on the skin
• Ear infections
• Nosebleeds

Causes

Mites can be introduced into a gargoyle gecko’s enclosure from a variety of sources, including:

• Live food
• New reptiles
• Substrate
• Decorations
• Other animals in the home

Treatment

If you suspect that your gargoyle gecko has mites, it is important to see a veterinarian right away. The veterinarian will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment.

Treatment for mites in gargoyle geckos typically involves using a topical medication to kill the mites.

The veterinarian may also prescribe an oral medication to treat any secondary infections.

In addition to treating the gecko, it is also important to clean and disinfect the enclosure. This will help to prevent the mites from coming back.

Prevention

The best way to prevent mites in gargoyle geckos is to:

• Inspect all new reptiles and live food carefully before introducing them to your gecko’s enclosure.
• Freeze live food for at least 24 hours before feeding it to your gecko.
• Clean and disinfect the enclosure regularly.
• Avoid overcrowding the enclosure.
• Provide your gecko with a variety of hiding places.
• Quarantine new reptiles for at least 30 days before introducing them to your other reptiles.

Impaction

Impaction is a condition that occurs when a gargoyle gecko’s digestive system becomes blocked with undigested food or other material. It is a serious condition that can lead to death if not treated promptly.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of impaction in gargoyle geckos include:

• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Constipation
• Bloated abdomen
• Regurgitation
• Weight loss

Causes

The most common cause of impaction in gargoyle geckos is improper diet. Feeding the gecko too many large or hard-to-digest insects, or feeding it a diet that is too high in fiber, can all lead to impaction. Other causes of impaction include:

• Parasites
• Dehydration
• Low temperatures
• Stress

Treatment

If you suspect that your gargoyle gecko may be impacted, it is important to take it to a veterinarian immediately. The veterinarian will examine the gecko and may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

1. A warm soak to help soften the blockage
2. Administering a laxative or lubricant to help the blockage pass
3. Manually removing the blockage
4. Surgery

Prevention

The best way to prevent impaction in gargoyle geckos is to provide them with a healthy diet and proper care. This includes:

• Feeding the gecko a variety of insects, fruits, and vegetables
• Avoiding feeding the gecko large or hard-to-digest insects
• Providing the gecko with a clean and fresh water source
• Maintaining the gecko’s enclosure at a proper temperature and humidity
• Taking the gecko to the veterinarian for regular check-ups

Metabolic Bone Disease

Metabolic bone disease (MBD) is a common condition in reptiles, including gargoyle geckos.

It is caused by a lack of calcium and/or vitamin D3, which are essential for the development and maintenance of strong bones.

MBD can be prevented by providing a diet that is rich in calcium and vitamin D3, as well as by providing a basking spot where the gecko can absorb UVB light.

Symptoms

Symptoms of MBD in gargoyle geckos:

• Soft or rubbery bones
• Swollen jaw
• Lameness
• Difficulty walking or climbing
• Fractures
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite

Causes

Causes of MBD in gargoyle geckos:

• Diet that is low in calcium or vitamin D3
• Lack of UVB light
• Overfeeding of phosphorus
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease

Treatment

Treatment for MBD in gargoyle geckos depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, simply adjusting the diet and providing a basking spot may be sufficient.

In more severe cases, the gecko may need to be treated with injections of calcium or vitamin D3.

It is important to note that MBD can be a difficult condition to treat, and some geckos may never fully recover.

Prevention

The best way to prevent MBD in gargoyle geckos is to provide a diet that is rich in calcium and vitamin D3.

This can be done by feeding the gecko a variety of insects, such as crickets, roaches, and mealworms.

The insects should be dusted with a calcium powder supplement before being fed to the gecko.

It is also important to provide the gecko with a basking spot where it can absorb UVB light. UVB light helps the gecko to synthesize vitamin D3, which is essential for calcium absorption.

Finally, it is important to avoid overfeeding the gecko with phosphorus. Phosphorus can interfere with calcium absorption, so it is important to choose a diet that is low in phosphorus.

Problematic Shedding

Problematic shedding, or dysecdysis, is a common problem in many reptiles, including gargoyle geckos. It is caused when the gecko is unable to shed its old skin properly.

Symptoms

Symptoms of problematic shedding in gargoyle geckos include:

• Retained shed: This is when the gecko is unable to shed its old skin completely. Retained shed can be seen as stuck skin on the gecko’s toes, tail, or other parts of its body.
• Difficulty shedding: The gecko may have difficulty shedding its old skin on its own. It may rub its body against objects in its enclosure to try to remove the old skin.
• Skin damage: If the gecko is unable to shed its old skin properly, it can damage its new skin. This can lead to infections and other health problems.

Causes

This problem can be caused due to a variety of factors, including:

• Improper humidity: Gargoyle geckos need a humid environment to shed properly. If the air is too dry, the skin will become dry and difficult to shed.
• Improper diet: A diet that is low in vitamin A can also lead to problematic shedding. Vitamin A is essential for healthy skin and shedding.
• Injury or illness: An injury or illness can also make it difficult for a gecko to shed.
• Parasites: Parasites can also cause problematic shedding.

Treatment

If your gargoyle gecko is experiencing problematic shedding, there are a few things you can do to help:

• Increase the humidity in the enclosure: This can be done by misting the enclosure regularly or using a humidifier.
• Provide a humid hide: This is a small shelter that the gecko can go into to raise the humidity around it.
• Give the gecko a warm bath: This can help to loosen the old skin and make it easier for the gecko to shed.
• Gently remove any stuck shed: Be careful not to damage the gecko’s new skin.

Prevention

The best way to prevent problematic shedding in gargoyle geckos is to provide them with a proper environment and diet.

Make sure that the enclosure is humid enough and that the gecko is getting enough vitamin A in its diet. You should also regularly inspect the gecko for any signs of injury or illness.

If you notice any problems with your gargoyle gecko’s shedding, be sure to consult with a veterinarian.

They can help you to determine the cause of the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Here are some additional tips for preventing problematic shedding in gargoyle geckos:

• Make sure that the gecko has plenty of rough surfaces to rub against. This will help to remove the old skin during shedding.
• Avoid handling the gecko too often during shedding. This can stress the gecko and make it more difficult for it to shed.
• If you live in a dry climate, you may need to mist the enclosure more often or use a humidifier.
• Offer the gecko a variety of foods to ensure that it is getting all of the nutrients it needs, including vitamin A.

Tail Rot

Tail rot is a common disease in gargoyle geckos, as well as other reptiles. It is a bacterial infection that causes the tail to turn black and necrotic.

Symptoms

Symptoms of tail rot:

• The tail may turn black or dark brown.
• The tail may become swollen and inflamed.
• The tail may become necrotic (dead tissue).
• The gecko may have difficulty moving its tail.

Causes

Tail rot can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Injury: An injury to the tail can create an entry point for bacteria.
• Unsanitary conditions: Living in unsanitary conditions can increase the risk of tail rot.
• Vitamin A deficiency: A vitamin A deficiency can weaken the immune system and make the gecko more susceptible to infection.
• Stress: Stress can also weaken the immune system and make the gecko more susceptible to infection.

Treatment

If you suspect that your gargoyle gecko has tail rot, it is important to take it to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

The veterinarian will likely prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. In severe cases, the veterinarian may need to amputate the tail.

Prevention

There are a number of things you can do to prevent tail rot in your gargoyle gecko, including:

• Provide your gecko with a clean and sanitary enclosure.
• Feed your gecko a balanced diet that includes a variety of insects and fruits.
• Monitor your gecko’s health closely and take it to the veterinarian if you notice any signs of illness.
• Avoid exposing your gecko to stress.

Mouth Rot

Mouth rot, also known as infectious stomatitis, is a common infection of the mouth that can affect gargoyle geckos. It is caused by a variety of bacteria, including Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Pseudomonas.

Mouth rot can be a serious condition, and it is important to seek veterinary care if you suspect that your gargoyle gecko has it.

Symptoms

The symptoms of mouth rot in gargoyle geckos can include:

• Redness and inflammation of the gums and mouth lining
• Ulcers or sores in the mouth
• Drooling
• Difficulty eating
• Weight loss
• Lethargy

Causes

There are a number of factors that can contribute to the development of mouth rot in gargoyle geckos, including:

• Poor hygiene
• Improper diet
• Stress
• Injury to the mouth
• Underlying health problems, such as respiratory infections and parasites

Treatment

The treatment for mouth rot in gargoyle geckos typically involves a combination of antibiotics and topical treatments.

The veterinarian may prescribe oral or injectable antibiotics, depending on the severity of the infection.

Topical treatments may include antiseptic rinses and ointments. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove dead or necrotic tissue.

Prevention

The best way to prevent mouth rot in gargoyle geckos is to provide them with a clean and healthy environment. This includes:

• Cleaning the enclosure regularly
• Feeding the gecko a nutritious diet
• Minimizing stress
• Providing hiding places and other enrichment opportunities
• Taking the gecko to the veterinarian for regular checkups

Parasites

Gargoyle geckos are susceptible to a variety of parasites, including internal parasites, such as roundworms, pinworms, and hookworms, and external parasites, such as mites, ticks, and lice.

Symptoms

Symptoms of parasites in gargoyle geckos:

• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Bloating
• Skin irritation
• Hair loss
• Anemia
• Difficulty breathing

Causes

Causes of parasites in gargoyle geckos:

• Contact with infected animals or their feces
• Eating contaminated food or water
• Living in unsanitary conditions

Treatment

Treatment of parasites in gargoyle geckos:

• The type of treatment will depend on the type of parasite.
• For internal parasites, the gecko may be given medication to kill the parasites.
• For external parasites, the gecko may be treated with a topical medication, such as a spray or ointment.
• In some cases, the gecko may need to be quarantined to prevent the spread of the parasites.

Prevention

Prevention of parasites in gargoyle geckos:

• Practice good hygiene by washing your hands thoroughly before and after handling your gecko and its enclosure.
• Clean your gecko’s enclosure regularly and remove any feces or uneaten food immediately.
• Feed your gecko a high-quality diet and provide it with fresh, clean water daily.
• Avoid feeding your gecko live insects, as they may carry parasites.
• If you suspect that your gecko has parasites, take it to a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

Here are some additional tips for preventing parasites in gargoyle geckos:

• Quarantine any new geckos for at least 30 days before introducing them to your existing geckos.
• Avoid bringing wild geckos into your home.
• Have your geckos examined by a veterinarian regularly for parasites.
• By following these tips, you can help to keep your gargoyle gecko healthy and parasite-free.

Common Symptoms Of Sick Gargoyle Gecko

Common symptoms of sick gargoyle geckos, regardless of the illness, may include:

• Lethargy: A sick gargoyle gecko may be less active than usual and may spend more time hiding.
• Loss of appetite: A sick gargoyle gecko may eat less than usual or may stop eating altogether.
• Weight loss: A sick gargoyle gecko may lose weight, even if it is still eating.
• Dehydration: A sick gargoyle gecko may become dehydrated, which can lead to sunken eyes, wrinkled skin, and difficulty moving.
• Discharge from the eyes or nose: A sick gargoyle gecko may have discharge from its eyes or nose, which may be clear, yellow, or green in color.
• Difficulty breathing: A sick gargoyle gecko may have difficulty breathing, which may be evidenced by open-mouthed breathing, wheezing, or gasping.
• Unusual behavior: A sick gargoyle gecko may exhibit unusual behavior, such as becoming aggressive, withdrawn, or hiding excessively.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your gargoyle gecko, it is important to take it to a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

Summary

In conclusion, while gargoyle geckos can make delightful and fascinating pets, it’s essential for their owners to be well-informed about common health issues and diseases that can affect them.

By recognizing the symptoms, understanding the causes, seeking timely treatment, and implementing preventive measures, you can ensure the well-being of your beloved gargoyle gecko.

Regular vet check-ups, maintaining a suitable environment, providing a balanced diet, and practicing good hygiene are crucial aspects of responsible gargoyle gecko ownership.

References

• https://www.webmd.com/pets/what-to-know-about-gargoyle-geckos
• https://www.myfamilyvets.co.uk/gecko-health-problems