Care guide
Signs of Stress in a Leopard Gecko
Quick answer
Darkened or dulled colour, hiding far more than usual, reduced appetite, and repeated pacing or scratching at the enclosure walls are the most common stress signs in a leopard gecko, usually linked to incorrect temperature or humidity, over-handling, or an exposed enclosure.
- Common signs
- Dark colour, hiding, pacing
- First step
- Recheck temperature/humidity
Common triggers
A new environment, recent handling, an incorrect temperature or humidity range, and a lack of adequate hiding cover are the most frequent causes of situational stress.
What helps
Rechecking temperature and humidity against the correct range, adding more hides or visual cover, and reducing handling frequency resolves most short-term stress. Symptoms that persist for more than a week or two are worth a vet check to rule out illness.