Reptiles can be amazing pets, and one great example would be leopard geckos. If you are someone who is an exotic pet enthusiast and wants to keep a reptile as a pet, definitely go for leopard geckos. They have a lot of benefits, which makes them very easy to maintain.
But before we take a look at these benefits, let us take a look at a few things that you need to know before getting a leopard gecko.
You Need To Get The Pet From A Licensed Breeder
Leopard geckos are wild reptiles that are usually found in Asian countries. They are bred by licensed breeders who sell them to European and American buyers.
If you want to buy a leopard gecko, be sure to get it from a licensed breeder. Keeping wild geckos is illegal, and if you get caught, you will face some penalty.
The Price Of Leopard Geckos
Generally, leopard geckos are very cheap since they are small and very easy to breed. They cost about $20 to $40.
However, some morphed variants of leopard geckos will cost you about $100. This makes them a very affordable reptilian pet. Even the maintenance cost of leopard geckos are cheap. Their containers are small and their food is available. They enjoy insects like dubia roaches. If you want to make a quick purchase, you can visit here and check out the Dubia Roaches For Sale.
Sickness In Leopard Geckos
To ensure your leopard geckos live a long and healthy life, you need to make sure they are treated well when they fall sick. Some common sickness that only occurs in reptiles, especially leopard geckos include-
Hypovitaminosis A
This happens when the reptile has an inappropriate diet and poor supplementation. It causes impaired skin shedding and eye problems.
Chronic Malnutrition
It is another disease related to malnutrition. This occurs when the geckos are not fed properly or not in the right amount.
Intestinal Impactions
They are very common in leopard geckos that prefer sand and gravel. They eat sand and gravel, which leads to colonic prolapse, lethargy, straining, and anorexia.
If you see your reptilian pet suffering from any one of these diseases, be sure to take them to a vet specialized in reptile treatment because a vet who takes care of dogs, cats, and rabbits may not be well versed in reptile treatment.
Why Are Reptiles Extremely Good Pets?
Aside from being extremely cute, there are plenty of other reasons why one should have a pet reptile.
1. They Are Very Easy To Maintain
We have mentioned the price of leopard geckos. They are fairly cheap, but that is not all.
Maintaining them is very easy and cheap as well. You only need a small container that you can buy from the breeder. They cost only about $150, much cheaper than containers for other reptiles.
2. Their Food Is Very Easy To Find
We have seen before that leopard geckos can suffer badly from malnutrition. You need to ensure that they are well-fed. Fortunately, you do not need to spend a fortune for the diet of a leopard gecko. Leopard Geckos are insectivores, meaning they eat insects only, no fruits and no vegetables. So you need to feed them various sorts of insects. Their favourite insects are crickets and mealworms. You can very easily find them in your backyard. You can also buy them from the breeder for a very low price.
3. They Are Very Friendly Reptiles
Some reptiles prefer being alone and independent, but leopard geckos actually enjoy human company. They might even get attached to their owners, but do not expect too much. Even though they enjoy human company, they still like to be alone and independent.
After all, if you wanted a very friendly pet, you should get a dog and not a reptile.
4. They Are Completely Safe
Unlike some reptiles, leopard geckos hardly become aggressive. There might be some seasonal aggression from them, but that is a sign that they are going through their mating season.
Most adult leopard geckos are very calm and docile and will not harm a human. However, young leopard geckos might appear a bit moody and avoid humans.
Another positive sign is that there have been no reports of humans being allergic to leopard geckos. If you are someone who is allergic to cats and dogs, a leopard gecko could be the perfect pet for you.
5. They Are Very Pretty
The best thing about leopard geckos is that they are these small adorable creatures that come in various colors. Yellow, green, red, orange leopard geckos with different prints will surely attract any eye.
When they feel particularly happy, they will even give you a smile that goes from ear to ear. These color morphed lizards may be a bit pricey than regular ones, but it sure is worth it.
6. They Are Long Living Animals
Leopard geckos can live a long time, about 20 years. So you can be sure that you will have a wonderful time and some beautiful memories with them.
For comparison, a dog can live up to 20 years as well. If you get a leopard gecko, you do not need to worry about changing your pets soon.
7. It Is Very Simple To Breed Leopard Geckos
If you wish to be a breeder for leopard geckos, you can do that very easily as well. Why are they simple? Because they will breed by themselves without you needing to do anything.
All you need to think about is feeding them regularly, and that is all. However, if you wish to sell your leopard geckos after breeding them, be sure to get a license from the environment department of your country.
Final Thoughts
Leopard geckos can be amazing pets if you can take care of them properly. They are fun-loving creatures, and you will have an amazing time with them. If this is your first time choosing a reptile for a pet, you should definitely buy a leopard gecko. You will not regret this decision.
