Do Leopard Geckos need a Heat Lamp?

Leopard Geckos are cold-blooded animals. This means they cannot generate internal heat, so they rely on other heat sources such as the sun, a heat lamp, and other sources of heat to stay warm.

Yes, Leopard Geckos need heat lamps because This helps geckos simulate the proper body temperature and promotes their health benefits. In the wild, leopard geckos get heat from the sun and other heat rocks while in the captive they get heat from different heat sources such as heat lamps, mats, and bulbs.

Leopard geckos can become too cold without heat, causing their body temperatures to drop and facing some other health problems.

Why do Leopard Geckos need a heat lamp?

Leopard geckos are ectothermic animals which means their body temperature is regulated by external sources such as the sun, heat lamps, and other heat sources.

In the tank, a heat lamp or bulbs can provide a warm environment for the leopard geckos. It helps them to roam and better thrive. Additionally, it mimics a natural habitat for them. By providing natural habitat, leopard geckos can survive.

What are the benefits of having a Heat Lamp in the Leopard Gecko Tank?

As you know leopard geckos are cold-blooded animals that need heat to survive. Using a heat lamp or other heat source has several benefits, as listed below.

Leopard gecko health is greatly improved by heat, which helps with digestion, breathing, excretion, and daily routines.

Do I need a Heat Lamp if I live in a Warm Climate?

Yes, you need a heat lamp if you are living in a warm climate because leopard geckos tanks can overheat in warmer climates. Using a heat lamp, you can control the heat and maintain a safe temperature for your leopard gecko.

How much Heat does a Leopard Gecko require?

Leopard geckos are highly dependent on the heat for their survival. A tank should be divided into two parts: a hot side and a cold side.

Ensure that both sides have different temperatures. For the hot side, the temperature is between 85 - 90 degrees Fahrenheit (29-32) degrees Celsius and For the cold side, the temperature is 70-77°Fahrenheit degrees (21-25 degrees Celsius). During the day, the heating lamp is left ON for 10 - 12 hours.

What happens to a Leopard Gecko without a Heat Lamp?

Leopard geckos in the wild get heat from the sun and other natural sources, but in captivity, they get heat from heat lamps or bulbs.

After leopard geckos fail to get warm, you can see some changes in leopard geckos such as

  • Become lazy,
  • Avoiding food,
  • Having difficulty opening their eyes,
  • Change in behavior,
  • Always spend time in hiding.

What happens when a Leopard Gecko gets too Cold?

When the temperature in a leopard gecko enclosure is cold, then your pet faces too much cold and suffers from health problems. 

In the absence of heat, their body cannot digest food and their immune systems are unable to function correctly. In addition, they also face long-term health problems. The following are some long-term health problems.

  • Impaction- In this situation, the leopard gecko's digestion should not work correctly and they should feel pain. In the absence of heat, geckos are unable to digest food properly and face impaction. If you want to help your leopard gecko in this situation, you can take them to a warmer place and massage its belly.
  • Stick tail Disease- In this disease leopard geckos rapidly lose weight. When leopard geckos get too cold or can't maintain body heat, their tails lose fat stores and become more sticky.
  • Respiratory Infection- Leopard geckos' respiratory systems will get infected when they get too cold. some symptoms of this disease are.
    • Lethargy
    • Clogged Nostrils
    • Loss of appetite
    • Weight loss
    • Fast breathing etc.

How long can a Leopard Gecko live without Heat Sources?

As you know leopard geckos need heat sources in their tank to survive, but without it, they can die within a month. In addition, if their enclosure temperature drops below 18 degrees Celsius ( 64 degrees Fahrenheit ), they will die within a few days.