Vitamins & minerals supplementation

Regular supplementation with calcium and other essential vitamins and minerals is crucial for the long-term health of geckos. It plays a key role in several important areas:

• Bone health: As an essential component of bone tissue, calcium ensures the strength and stability of bones. The demand for calcium is especially high in juvenile animals and pregnant females. A deficiency can lead to serious bone disorders, such as rickets (Metabolic Bone Disease - MBD), where the bones become soft, deformed, and brittle.
• Egg production in females: During egg-laying, female geckos require an increased amount of calcium, as this mineral is essential for the formation of eggshells.  A calcium deficiency can lead to issues such as egg binding, a potentially life-threatening condition in which the female is unable to lay her eggs.
• Muscle and nerve function: Calcium is crucial for proper muscle and nerve function. A deficiency can cause muscle cramps, tremors and weakness.

Calcium absorption and utilization are dependent on sufficient vitamin D3. In the wild, geckos produce vitamin D3 through UVB radiation exposure. In terrariums, especially without UVB lamps, vitamin D3 supplementation may be necessary to ensure proper calcium use.

Without adequate calcium intake and the right balance of vitamin D3, geckos may develop deficiencies that lead to long-term health issues.

Supplementation in practice

Calcium supplements can be mixed directly into the food or administered through feeder insects. Insects should be regularly dusted with calcium powder before being given to geckos. 

For geckos without UVB light, a calcium supplement with vitamin D3 may be beneficial based on their specific dietary needs.

This approach helps to promote gecko health and prevent potential deficiencies at an early stage.