Care for a Pet Gecko

About 800 different species of geckos exist. This means that you will have a variety to choose from when pet hunting. Most pet stores sell the reptiles, with prices of up to several hundred dollars. Aside from choosing the gecko you want as a pet, you must learn about what it takes to care for one. Find out how to house it, feed it and keep it sufficiently warm.

Things You'll Need

  • Vivarium
  • Housing accessories
  • Heat mat
  • Food
  • Water
  • Vitamins
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase and set up a vivarium, which is the tank you will use to house your gecko, at least two weeks before buying your new pet. This will give you time to warm it to the appropriate temperature and fill it with everything you need. A standard aquarium tank makes a suitable vivarium, or you can buy a specially made gecko enclosure.

    • 2

      Warm the tank using a special heat mat, which you will place either under the tank or beneath the substrate, which is the bedding you will use inside of the tank. The mat should cover between one-half and three-fourths of the vivarium. Let the temperature stabilize at between 84 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • 3

      Give your gecko a place to hide. Geckos like small areas in which to curl up, such as a miniature cave or even the shell of a coconut. Your pet supply store should offer several choices.

    • 4

      Provide water for your gecko in a small, shallow bowl. The water should not be too deep because the reptiles could drown in it. Make sure to offer your gecko fresh water daily.

    • 5

      Feed your gecko bugs, such as crickets. The pet shop where you purchase your gecko also will sell a fresh supply of critters to feed him. You can also purchase a vitamin powder in which to dip the insects. This will help your new pet stay happy and healthy.