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My African fat-tailed gecko is losing weight, wobbly. How to help?

Updated on September 23, 2025

You I have an african fat-tailed gecko. Recently hes lost a lot of weight, his spine is showing, his tail is very thin and he is very wobbly when walking around. He is only around 8 years old. How can I help.him??

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on March 6, 2020

Submit a stool sample to your veterinarian to diagnose intestinal parasites or bacterial overgrowth. Confirm proper environmental parameters, especially temperature. Low temps can affect appetite, digestion and activity in reptiles. Be sure to supplement adequately with calcium as well as other minerals and a multivitamin powder. If symptoms persist, considering an exam with your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Todd Cecil
Veterinarian
Published on May 22, 2020
Thanks for reaching out about Gexter and including photos. Review diet to include a wide variety of insects, all being gut loaded with fresh vegetables. He does appear overweight with a fat tail and legs. These are only the external signs of obesity, what can not be seen is the internal damage to the liver (hepatic lipidosis) and possible heart disease. The red area/rash could be due to a compromised immune system and secondary infection, metabolic disorder (liver, kidney) or other problem. A veterinary visit is needed to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Remove any substrate (soil, bark) that could irritate the lesion and replace with clean cloth or towels. Review and correct diet and husbandry. Try offering water and then a moistened food via a syringe.
Good luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on August 5, 2017
Have him examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles to diagnose illness or injury. Submit a stool sample to diagnose intestinal parasites.
Confirm proper environmental parameters which may be affecting his appetite and digestion. If he will eat more, offer more prey. Gut load them for 24 hours to maximize nutritional value. Dust several times weekly with appropriate calcium and vitamin supplements. . Soak in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte. Do this daily for 10-15 minutes to prevent or treat mild dehydration. Do not hesitate to post additional questions or request a consultation for more detailed information.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on December 27, 2018
Continue to feed appropriately sized and gut loaded prey. Weigh him every few days to confirm gains of losses. If his tail continues to shrink, have him physically examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. Submit a stool sample to diagnose intestinal parasites. If you have other reptiles, wash your hands before and after handling Alex. If he has cage mates, remove them (or him) in case he is infectious.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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