A healthy adult leopard gecko can generally survive without food for about two weeks to a month thanks to their ability to store excess fat and nutrients in their tails. However, this longevity highly depends on the age, general health condition, and physical status of the leopard gecko at the time it starts fasting.
Leopard geckos, like many reptiles, have a slower metabolism compared to warm-blooded animals. This means they can go longer periods without eating because they burn calories at a much slower rate. Their tail, thick and fleshy, serves as a storage unit for fat. In conditions of food scarcity, they utilize these fat reserves for energy.
Despite this, it's crucial to understand that this is not an ideal or healthy situation for a leopard gecko. Even though they can survive for a time without food, they cannot do so without water. Dehydration can set in quickly and can lead to severe health problems or even death.
In everyday care, leopard geckos should be fed every other day or at least three times a week. The frequency depends on the age and growth needs of the gecko, with juveniles needing more regular feeding than adults. A balanced diet for a leopard gecko typically consists of mealworms, crickets, and other insects, all of which should be dusted with a calcium or multivitamin supplement to ensure nutritional needs are met.
It's worth noting that any prolonged refusal to eat is a cause for concern and calls for a consultation with a vet. Many factors can cause a leopard gecko to stop eating, such as stress, illness, parasites, improper habitat conditions, etc. Therefore, while they can go without eating for a while, it's not something a responsible pet owner should test or encourage.
In summary, while a leopard gecko can survive for two weeks to a month without food by using fat storage from its tail, this is an indication of stress or illness. Regular feeding and access to fresh water are essential for the health and well-being of these geckos. If a leopard gecko refuses food for an extended period, it's advisable to seek advice from a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health conditions.