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Why won't my leopard gecko eat and has a closed eye after shedding?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Reptile | Gecko | Male | unneutered

Hello, I have a 3/4 year old leopard gecko. He hasn’t been eating too much recently and looks like he is getting underweight. He hasn’t opened his one eye in two days despite me gently rubbing it with a damp Q-tip. I have tried to give him a couple drops of chicken baby food and dusted meal worms but he won’t take either. He has been pooping all over the cage rather then his usual corner. His last shed was a week and a half ago and he hasn’t eaten since before then. I attached photos of his eye

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on February 13th, 2020

He may have a retained eye cap which could be the cause of those symptoms. Check temps in the cage. Low temps may affect appetite and activity in reptiles. Soak him in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte for 15-20 minutes. This will provide warmth and may treat or prevent minor dehydration. It may also help is he has any residual shed. You can also massage his abdomen, front to back, during the soak to stimulate defecation. I see you use sand as a substrate, so an impaction is always a concern.
Pick up some Fluker's Repta Boost or Oxbow Carnivore Care from the local pet store. This is a better option than baby food.
If he doesn't start eating in the next few days or if the eye does not improve, have him seen by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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