Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!

Picking the best leopard gecko substrate can be an overwhelming task; learn about some great options to help your leopard gecko live a happy & healthy life!
Updated on November 13th, 2025
Tropical and desert terrarium plants are not only beneficial to terrestrial environments, but they also bring a more natural appearance to your reptile’s habitat.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
Learn how to care for terrestrial tarantulas, recommended diet & habitat setup. Find the right food, supplies & equipment at your neighborhood Petco.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
When it comes to reptile habitats, one of the most essential elements to creating a happy home for your pet is including the appropriate type of lighting. Zoo Med helps outline which lights are right for your pet.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
Learn how to take care of your Hermann's Tortoise, tank size, diet & habitat setup. Find the right food, supplies and equipment at your neighborhood Petco.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
An acceptable substrate would be river rocks or large gravel. Anything smaller could potentially be ingested causing an impaction or obstruction. You could also leave the bottom bare. The basking area doesn't necessarily need substrate. A ramp out of the water leading to a simple platform is acceptable.
Updated on August 12th, 2025
A small enough piece should pass uneventfully. Monitor for lethargy, loss of appetite or lack of defecation. If necessary, see your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet. Soaking him in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte will keep him well hydrated which can help the substrate pass easier.
Updated on August 12th, 2025
Hi Cameron and thank you for your question. I would recommend that you keep using the mat rather than sand exactly because of the concerns you have mentioned. You could get 2 mats and use one while the other is being cleaned. There is no real way of preventing them from swallowing sand.
Updated on August 12th, 2025
A better option would be to use the link below to find a veterinarian experienced in treating reptiles. https://arav.site-ym.com/search/custom.asp?id=3661 In the meantime, change out the rocks for something "softer", such as a soil/most mix. Rocks can cause tiny scrapes on the shell which can introduce infection. Use a thermometer in the basking spot to make sure temps don't get too high. A thermometer on the other end would be recommended to make sure temps aren't too low. Offer a commercial pelleted diet along with fresh greens and vegetables.
Updated on August 12th, 2025
It is difficult to see in the picture. What you can do is submit a stool sample to your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. This may diagnose intestinal parasites. The appropriate medication can then be administered or dispensed.
Updated on August 12th, 2025