Most spotted geckos eat live insects, and some also lap soft fruit or nectar-style gecko diet, so the safest approach is to feed gut-loaded insects as the staple and add a species-appropriate fruit diet only if your gecko takes it. “Spotted gecko” is a common name for several species, so confirm yours with the seller or a reptile vet before you settle on a diet.
Know your species first
The name is used for different spotted geckos, including leopard geckos and several small house geckos. Leopard geckos are strict insectivores, while some day geckos and others also lick fruit. If the animal came with a Latin name, search for care information on that species. When in doubt, offer insects only.
Staple insects
- Crickets: a good everyday food. Size them to the gecko.
- Dubia roaches: nutritious and easy to keep.
- Mealworms: fine in moderation. They have a hard shell, so use small ones and avoid for babies.
- Silkworms and hornworms: soft and hydrating, good variety foods.
- Waxworms: very fatty. Offer one or two as an occasional treat.
Supplements
Dust feeder insects lightly with calcium powder. Add a reptile multivitamin once or twice a week, following the product directions. If your gecko lives without UVB light, ask a vet whether calcium with vitamin D3 is right for your setup, since too much vitamin D can be harmful.
Fruit and gecko diets
If your species is known to lap fruit, offer a prepared powdered gecko diet mixed with water to a smooth paste, in a very small dish. Remove it after a day because it spoils quickly. Skip citrus and anything sticky, salty, or sugary from your own kitchen.
How much and how often
Young geckos usually eat daily. Adults often eat every two or three days. Offer a handful of appropriately sized insects, watch for 15 minutes, and remove what is left over.
Related guides
Compare with our leopard gecko diet and gecko treat ideas.
Bottom Line
Identify your gecko’s species, feed it appropriately sized live insects, add calcium, and keep fresh water available. If your gecko is thin, weak, or off its food for several weeks, see an exotics vet.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice.
