Most people think that when their crested gecko starts licking his balls, he’s up to something naughty. But what if there’s another explanation? What if he’s just trying to stay clean and healthy? In this article, we’ll explore the possible reasons why your crested gecko might be licking his balls, and we’ll also provide some tips on how you can keep him healthy and happy.
What do crested gecko balls look like and why do they lick them?
Crested gecko balls are small, round structures that are found on the back of the crested gecko’s head. They are made up of a number of different glands, which secrete a variety of different substances. The balls themselves are coated in a sticky substance, which helps to trap dust and other particles.
The crested gecko uses its tongue to clean the balls, and this also helps to keep them moist. It is thought that the balls may play a role in communication, as they can change color when the crested gecko is feeling threatened or aggressive.
In addition, the balls may help to regulate body temperature, as they are often lighter in color when the crested gecko is warm and darker when it is cool.
Do crested geckos need their balls licked, and what are the benefits of doing so?
While crested geckos are low-maintenance pets, there is one important task that their owners must perform: cleaning their balls.
Also known as hemipenes, these organs are located on either side of the gecko’s tail and are used for reproduction. If they are not cleaned regularly, the hemipenes can become impacted, which can lead to serious health problems.
In addition to preventing medical issues, cleaning the hemipenes also has hygienic benefits. By removing bacteria and debris, you can help your gecko stay healthy and free of infection.
While it may seem like a strange task, cleaning your crested gecko’s balls is an important part of responsible pet ownership.
Are there any risks associated with licking crested gecko balls?
While crested geckos are generally low-maintenance pets, there are a few potential risks associated with licking their balls. If your gecko licks its balls too often, it could develop a condition known as xerostomia or dry mouth.
This condition can lead to difficulty eating and swallowing, as well as an increased risk of infection.
Additionally, licking balls can cause your gecko to ingest small pieces of the substrate, which can lead to digestive issues.
Finally, if your gecko’s ball is infected or injured, licking it could cause further irritation or even introduce bacteria into the wound.
If you are concerned that your gecko is licking its balls too frequently, talk to your veterinarian about ways to reduce the behavior. Some suggestions may include providing more toys and hideaways, increasing the humidity in the enclosure, or offering a more nutrient-rich diet.
4. How can you tell if your crested gecko is licking his balls too much?
Crested geckos are well known for their penchant for licking their own balls- but how can you tell if your crested gecko is licking his balls too much?
The first thing to look for is any change in behavior. If your crested gecko suddenly starts licking his balls more frequently, or if he seems to be obsessively licking them, this could be a sign that something is wrong.
Another way to tell if your crested gecko is licking his balls too much is to check for any medical problems. If your crested gecko has developed a rash or irritation around his genital area, this could be a sign that he is licking his balls too much.
If you think that your crested gecko is licking his balls too much, it’s important to take him to the vet for an examination.
What are some other ways to keep your crested gecko healthy and happy?
Crested geckos are generally hardy animals, but like all pets, they require some basic care to stay healthy and happy.
In addition to providing a clean, well-ventilated enclosure and sufficient food and water, crested gecko owners should also be aware of potential health problems and how to prevent them. Some common health concerns include metabolic bone disease, respiratory infections, and parasites.
Metabolic bone disease is caused by a lack of calcium in the diet and can lead to softening of the bones and deformities.
Respiratory infections are typically caused by bacteria or viruses and can cause difficulty breathing, discharge from the nose or mouth, and loss of appetite.
Parasites are often contracted from contaminated food or water and can cause anemia, weight loss, and diarrhea. By understanding these common health problems, crested gecko owners can take steps to prevent them. Regular vet check-ups can also help to identify potential problems early on.
