Leopard Gecko Health: Respiratory Problems

Background Information

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

There are a wide variety of different manifestations of respiratory problems. The most general signs include:

Listlessness
Anorexia
Weight loss.
Swollen or bloated appearance to the body.
Gaping or open mouth breathing.
Clicking or bubbling sound with severe infections.
Nasal discharge.
Labored breathing.
Excessive saliva - may also be thick, ropy or sheeting.

Possible Causes

There are a wide variety of different possible contributing factors to respiratory problems in leopard geckos. The most common causes include:

Inadequate temperatures.
Dirty enclosures.
Overcrowded enclosures.
Poor diet.
Stress.
Inhalation of foreign material.
Obesity.
Overall immune system suppression.
Bacterial infection.
Viral infection.
Fungal infection.
Parasitic infection.

Diagnostic Techniques

There are a variety of diagnostic techniques available to your veterinarian. The most common include:

Complete physical examination.
Complete patient history and overview of husbandry.
Blood work.
Radiographs
Cytology
Culture and sensitivity testing.
Transtracheal washes.

Treatment Options

The most appropriate treatment option will depend on the severity and cause of the actual problem. Some of the more common treatments include:

Correction of any environmental/husbandry problems.
Antibiotics
Aerosol or nebulization therapy.
Supportive care.
Fluid therapy.
Nutritional support.

Many veterinarians will recommend that the affected leopard gecko be maintained at the upper end of its Preferred Optimal Temperature Zone.

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!