Leopard Gecko Health: Hyperthermia

Background Information

Hyperthermia is caused by the prolonged exposure of the gecko to temperatures that are too high. It is also commonly referred to as heat stress or over-heating.

The internal body temperature of leopard geckos in captivity is dependent upon the environmental temperatures within the enclosure. Leopard geckos cannot tolerate prolonged exposure to temperatures even just slightly above the normal upper limits.

Hyperthermia is a common cause of death in captive geckos and veterinary treatment must be sought immediately if the gecko is to be saved.

Please read our Disclaimer before reading any further into these common problems. As with any medical problem, we strongly recommend that you immediately contact your veterinarian for assistance.

Common Symptoms

The symptoms will vary depending on the immediate severity of the problem. The most common symptoms associated with hyperthermia include:

Gaping or open-mouth breathing
Panting
Prolonged soaking in the water dish
Hiding under the substrate
Gecko will be hot to the touch.
Some geckos may be comatose.
There may be evidence of a struggle - such as the gecko trying to escape.
Dehydration.
Actual physical burns.

Treatment Options

Veterinary treatment of hyperthermia must be sought immediately if the gecko is to be saved. This is NOT something that you should attempt at home! Treatment options available to the vet include:

Use of cooling baths to help decrease the internal body temperature.
Intubation and breathing assistance may be required.
Fluid therapy may be necessary.
Glucocorticoids may be administered.

When dealing with medical problems, proper personal hygiene, quarantine and disinfection techniques are absolutely necessary.

Still Confused Or Concerned?

If you would like more information or further assistance, or just want to chat some more about leopard geckos, please feel free to post on the Reptile Rescue, Canada Leopard Gecko Forum!