Crested geckos are one of the most popular pet lizards. They are generally easy to care for and make great pets for both beginners and experienced reptile owners. However, one common problem that Crested Gecko owners face is their sneezing. It can be quite concerning to watch your crestie sneezing nonstop. This article will address the common causes and solutions to this problem.
As a beginner reptile keeper, a crested gecko is one of the first types of animals you may consider keeping. These skittish little lizards are native to New Caledonia and make great starter pets for those just getting into the hobby. In addition, crested geckos are easy to care for and can be housed in a small enclosure, making them an affordable option for those on a tight budget.
Like any other pet, they get sick from time to time. So if your crested gecko is sneezing, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Crested geckos are prone to sneezing, and there are a few things you can do to help stop it.
The first thing you’ll want to do when you notice your crested gecko is sneezing is trying to determine the cause. There are many potential causes of sneezing in crested geckos, from allergies to infections, and it’s important to treat the underlying cause as soon as possible.
This blog post will discuss the most common causes of sneezing in crested geckos and how to treat them. So, if your crested gecko has been sneezing lately, keep reading!
Table of Contents
Why Is My Gecko Sneezing So Much?
There are many potential causes of sneezing in Crested Geckos. The most common include:
Allergies
Crested geckos can be allergic to various things, including their food, bedding, and even the air they breathe. If you think your Crested gecko’s sneezing might be due to an allergy, try changing their diet or switching to a new brand of bedding.
Infections
Upper respiratory infections are common in Crested Geckos. If you think your Crested Gecko might have an infection, take them to the vet as soon as possible for treatment.
Irritants
Crested Geckos can also sneeze if they’re exposed to irritants, such as dust or smoke. If you think this might be the cause of your Crested gecko’s sneezing, try to keep their enclosure clean and free of dust. You may also want to consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
Ingesting Loose Substrate
Crested Geckos like to nibble on their substrate, and if they ingest too much, it can cause them to sneeze. If you think your Crested Gecko is sneezing because they’ve been ingesting substrate, try switching to a different type of substrate or feeding them in a separate enclosure.
Respiratory Infection
Crested geckos are prone to respiratory infections, which can cause them to sneeze. If you think your Crested Gecko has a respiratory infection, take them to the vet as soon as possible for treatment.
How Do You Tell If My Crested Gecko Has A Respiratory Infection?
There are a few signs that can indicate your Crested Gecko has a respiratory infection, including:
- Sneezing
- Wheezing
- Discharge from the nose or eyes
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
If you notice these signs in your Crested Gecko, take them to the vet as soon as possible for treatment.
Impaction
Another common cause of sneezing in Crested Geckos is impaction. This occurs when a Crested Gecko ingests too much substrate, which can block their digestive tract and cause them to sneeze.
Incorrect Temperature
If the temperature in your Crested Gecko’s enclosure is too high or too low, it can cause them to sneeze. Crested Geckos should be kept at room temperature (72-78 degrees Fahrenheit), so if you think the temperature is causing your crested gecko to sneeze, try adjusting it.
Low Humidity
Crested Geckos need a humid environment to stay healthy, and if the humidity in their enclosure is too low, it can cause them to sneeze. Crested Geckos should be kept at a humidity of 50-70%, so adjust it accordingly to see if the sneezing goes away.
Fungus And Mold In Tank
Another cause of sneezing in Crested Geckos is a fungus called Aspergillus (common mold). This fungus can be found in the Crested Gecko’s enclosure, and if inhaled, it can cause them to sneeze. If you think a fungus might cause your Crested gecko’s sneezing, take them to the vet as soon as possible for treatment. This fungus causes Aspergillosis in reptiles and can be fatal if left untreated. Mold thrives in humid environments, so if the humidity in your Crested Gecko’s enclosure is too high, it could cause mold.
Irritation From The Air
If your Crested Gecko is sneezing and there is no obvious cause, it could be because they’re irritated by the air. This can happen if the air in their enclosure is too dry or dusty.
Shedding
Crested Geckos shed their skin regularly, and during this time, they may sneeze more than usual. If your Crested Gecko is shedding, try to keep their enclosure humid to help with the shedding process.
Dusty Substrate
If your Crested Gecko’s enclosure has a lot of dust, it can irritate their respiratory system and cause them to sneeze. Try to keep their enclosure clean and dust-free to avoid this problem.
A Foreign Object Stuck In The Nose
Crested Geckos are curious creatures who investigate their environment with their mouths and nose. If they get a foreign object stuck in their nose, it can cause them to sneeze. Also, pay attention to skin getting stuck in the nose during their shedding phase. This can lead to continuous sneezing in your crested gecko.
How Do I Treat Crested Gecko Sneezing?
The best way to treat Crested Gecko sneezing is to identify and address the underlying cause. For example, if your Crested Gecko is sneezing due to an allergy, try changing their diet or bedding. If they’re sneezing due to an infection, take them to the vet for treatment. And if they’re sneezing due to an irritant, try to keep their enclosure clean and free of dust.
In most cases, treating a crested gecko’s sneezing is fairly straightforward. First, you can clear their enclosure of dust or debris and ensure they have access to fresh water. If they are suffering from an infection, your vet will prescribe antibiotics. These simple steps can help your crested gecko feel better and reduce its risk of further health complications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Crested Geckos are prone to sneezing. While most of the time, Crested Gecko sneezing is nothing to worry about, a few potential causes can be serious. Once you address the root cause of the sneezing, the symptoms should improve and eventually go away. Crested Geckos are delicate creatures, so it’s important to take good care of them and monitor their health closely. Thanks for reading, and be sure to check out our other blog posts on Crested Geckos for more information on these amazing reptiles!
