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My leopard gecko isn't eating mealworms. What can I do to help?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Reptile | Gecko | Female | unspayed | 11 months and 18 days old

My leopard gecko wont eat mealworms. What should I do?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Angel Alvarado, LVT

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on September 1, 2019

Check temps in the cage. Low temps can affect appetite in reptiles. If temps are normal, make sure the mealworms are appropriately sized, no bigger than the space between the eyes. You can also offer freshly molted mealworms which have less chitin and are easier to digest.
Other options include crickets, dubia roaches and phoenix worms.
Vote Icon3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on February 20, 2019

    Make sure the enclosure is at proper temperature. Low temps can affect appetite in reptile. Also, make sure the mealworms are of an appropriate size, nothing bigger than the space between Blu's eyes. This goes for all prey offered. Use freshly molted mealworms. They have less chitin and are easier to digest.
    You can also try crickets, dubia roaches or phoenix worms. Waxworms are good for an occasional treat. They should not be a staple since they are high in fat.
    You can review dragon care at the link below.
    When feeding, wait about an hour or two after the heat lamp turns on in the morning. offer some greens or veggies, then offer prey. You can place them in a shallow cup to make it easier for Blu to get them.

    http://www.anapsid.org/bearded.html

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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