Feeding Schedule for Leopard Geckos of Different Ages

Keeping your leopard gecko healthy starts with understanding its diet—and the right feeding schedule can make all the difference. But did you know that what works for a baby gecko isn’t the same for an adult? Let’s break down the best feeding schedule by age so your gecko can thrive at every stage.

Why Age Matters in Feeding

Geckos are like us in one big way: their needs change as they grow. Baby geckos need constant fuel to help them grow fast, while adults are more laid-back with their meals. If you feed a baby the way you’d feed an adult, they might miss out on the nutrients they need. So, let’s look at how often and how much to feed based on age.

Feeding Baby Leopard Geckos (0-4 Months)

Babies are voracious eaters. With rapid growth, they need food daily to build strength and stay active. At this age, leopard geckos should be eating small insects, like crickets or mealworms, at least once a day. Aim for 5-7 small insects per feeding.

Tip: Baby geckos may be a bit clumsy with food. Use a shallow dish to keep the insects contained, making it easier for them to snack away. Also, check out How to Choose the Best Insects for Leopard Gecko Feeding for guidance on selecting their diet.

Feeding Juvenile Leopard Geckos (4-12 Months)

As they start to mature, leopard geckos don’t need quite as much fuel. Juveniles still require food regularly, but you can ease back a bit. Feed them every other day with around 7-10 medium-sized insects per feeding.

If you’ve noticed they’re eating slower, that’s okay! Their growth is slowing, so they might be getting picky or need a bit less. It’s a good stage to try out a variety of insects like dubia roaches or waxworms. Just remember, treats like waxworms should be occasional due to their high fat content.

Feeding Adult Leopard Geckos (12+ Months)

Fully grown geckos have simpler needs. Adults are often content with eating just two to three times a week, with around 5-8 large insects per feeding. Since they’re done growing, they don’t need the same constant intake.

However, don’t forget the essentials like calcium powder. Dust their insects with calcium about once a week for adults. If you’re new to supplementing, check out Which Vitamins and Minerals Do Leopard Geckos Need? for more on keeping their bones strong and healthy.

Making Feeding Easier: Tips and Tricks

1. Gut-Load Your Insects: Ensure the insects your gecko eats are gut-loaded 24 hours before feeding. Gut-loading is easy—just feed the insects nutrient-rich foods like carrots and leafy greens. Your gecko will get a nutritional boost with every bite.
2. Keep a Routine: Geckos love a routine. Try to feed them around the same time each day or week. They’ll become more comfortable and even look forward to meal times.
3. Observe Their Appetite: Some geckos eat more during certain times of the year. During the winter, it’s normal for them to slow down due to cooler temps. If they’re skipping meals or eating less, don’t panic—it’s just part of their cycle.

Common Questions About Gecko Feeding

What if my gecko refuses to eat?
Adult geckos may skip a meal occasionally. However, if a baby or juvenile isn’t eating, it’s worth a closer look. Sometimes, they’re just being picky, but other times, it could be stress or tank conditions. Read our guide on Why Isn’t My Leopard Gecko Eating? to troubleshoot.

How do I know if I’m feeding too much or too little?
Healthy geckos have a plump tail that stores fat. If you notice their tail getting thinner, it may be a sign they’re not eating enough. On the flip side, an overweight gecko might need fewer feedings or a more balanced diet.

Wrapping It Up

Adjusting their diet and feeding schedule to match their age keeps your leopard gecko healthy and happy. Babies need daily meals, juveniles can go a bit longer, and adults settle comfortably into a twice-a-week routine. Remember to observe their appetite, keep their diet balanced, and sprinkle a little calcium now and then.

Stick to these age-based guidelines, and you’ll help your gecko live a vibrant, well-fed life!