How to Hand Feed a Blind Leopard Gecko

Blind leopard geckos require lots of extra care since they cannot eat on their own. Because they cannot see to hunt or drink, a responsible owner must hand-feed them personally. Hand-feeding a leopard gecko is not a difficult task but it does require patience and a steady, gentle hand.

Things You'll Need

  • Eyedropper
  • Mealworms or crickets
  • Latex and powder-free rubber gloves
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill an eyedropper full of cool purified water.

    • 2

      Put on your pair of rubber gloves.

    • 3

      Gently grab your gecko out of his terrarium. Be aware that he will run if he is not used to being held.

    • 4

      Hold your gecko gently and speak to him in a soft voice in order to calm him down.

    • 5

      Place the eyedropper of water in directly in front of your gecko's mouth so that it gently touches his mouth. Squeeze out a small amount. Your gecko should lick his lips. Continue doing this until the eyedropper is empty. If he does not drink it all, do not force him. If he does, fill the eyedropper up again and set it aside.

    • 6

      Grab a mealworm or a cricket.

    • 7

      Hold it directly in front of your gecko's mouth so that it slightly brushes against his mouth. Allow him to taste it and smell it (using his tongue). He will eventually try to grab it if he's hungry. Be aware that he may bite you while trying to catch it (it usually doesn't hurt).

    • 8

      Feed him until he refuses to eat any more.

    • 9

      Try to see if your gecko will drink more water. If he will not, try to give him more water later.