Leopard Gecko Shedding
Normal Leopard gecko shedding (synonyms Leopard gecko molting
and Leopard gecko ecdysis), is a physiological process where the
old skin is removed to give way for newer, usually larger one.
The process of normal Leopard gecko ecdysis is dependant on a
combination of environmental factors including the
Leopard gecko humidity, hydration and
It is normal to see
Leopard gecko eating problems during the
shedding process. Some leopard geckos will also show
which is also completely normal.
Leopard Gecko Shedding Problems
Leopard gecko shedding problems, or so-called dysecdysis, is
defined by abnormal shedding. A healthy, well looked after
Leopard geckos are supposed to shed in one large piece. Normal
shedding is age dependant and should take place periodically.
Abnormal shedding is seen where the skin comes off in pieces or
not at all, or when the Leopard gecko shows
Leopard gecko dysecdysis can be due to various factors. Most
shedding problems occur when there is a deviation in the main
environmental factors. Other contributing factors include age,
Leopard gecko parasites, stress, some
Leopard gecko injuries and excessive
Leopard gecko handling
during the shedding period.
Leopard Gecko Dysecdysis Contributing Factors
gecko temperatures can lead to chronic stress, retarded
growth and possible
Leopard gecko disease. All this prevent a Leopard gecko from
getting bigger in size which will cause shedding problems.
The humidity is
probably the single factor leading to most Leopard gecko
shedding problems. A low humidity, or a too dry environment
prevents old skin from loosening properly. A
Leopard gecko hide box
with a suitable moist substrate should be part of the cage
Leopard Gecko Shedding Problem Complications
The main abnormal shedding complication is certainly the
formation of constricting bands around the toes, legs and tail.
This serves as a tourniquet which prevent the blood flow to the
distal areas leading to necrosis and possible permanent loss of
Other Leopard gecko shedding problem complications include
secondary skin infections and mouth infections where the retained
skin serves as growing sites for various bacteria.
Leopard Gecko Shedding Problem Treatment
Dysecdysis is not a primary disease, but rather a symptom of an
underlying cause. Leopard gecko shedding problems must
preferable be treated under the instructions of an experienced
veterinarian. It is important to keep thorough records of
your Leopard gecko sheddings to serve as history for the vet. The treatment of Leopard gecko shedding
problems is threefold namely to treat the clinical signs of dysecdysis, to treat the underlying cause and to treat the
The physical nature of the condition, i.e. the pieces of skin
that are not sloughed naturally are treated with short, lukewarm
water baths. A soapy disinfectant can also be used to aid in the
process. The pieces of constricted skin around the extremities
must be GENTLY removed by hand.
The most common underlying causes are incorrect Leopard gecko
humidity and Leopard gecko temperatures. These two environmental
factors must be corrected promptly. A less common problem is
Leopard gecko mites.
Leopard gecko shedding problem complications are treated with
any or a combination of the following: Parenteral fluids (drip),
antibiotics, antiparasitics. Sometimes amputation of toes, legs
or the tail is advised where necrotic constrictions took place.