Care guide

African Fat-Tailed Gecko Enclosure: What You Actually Need

Quick answer

A single adult fat-tail needs at least a 20-gallon long (30 x 12 in), and a 40-gallon breeder (36 x 18 in) is a better standard, in a mostly closed, front-opening enclosure that holds humidity but still allows airflow.

On this page
  1. Floor space over height
  2. Material
  3. Furnishing
Minimum
20-gallon long
Recommended
36 x 18 in or larger

Floor space over height

Fat-tails live on the ground, so floor area matters far more than height. A larger footprint lets you create a proper warm zone, cool zone, and separate humid hide.

Material

Glass shows the gecko but loses heat and gives little cover. Wood holds heat but can warp when damp. PVC holds both heat and humidity well and is easy to wipe clean.

Furnishing

Provide three snug, opaque hides, rough surfaces for shedding, cover on three sides, and a shallow water dish. Fix heavy decor in place so a digging gecko cannot topple it.