What Fruits Can Crested Geckos Eat

September 28, 2025

what fruits can crested geckos eat

What Fruits Can Crested Geckos Eat?

As a loving crested gecko owner, you probably want to give your little friend the best possible diet, right? It's exciting to offer them a variety of foods, and fruits can be a fantastic part of their diet when offered correctly. But the big question is: what fruits can crested geckos eat safely and healthily?

Crested geckos are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and insects. While commercial crested gecko diets are excellent staples, supplementing with live insects and carefully selected fruits adds enrichment and important nutrients. Let's dive into the fruity details!

The Best Fruits for Your Crested Gecko

When choosing fruits for your crested gecko, think about their calcium-to-phosphorus ratio. You want fruits with more calcium than phosphorus, as an imbalance can lead to metabolic bone disease. Always opt for ripe, organic fruits if possible, and wash them thoroughly before feeding.

Here are some of the best fruit options that your crested gecko can enjoy:

Papaya: A fantastic choice with a great calcium-to-phosphorus ratio.
Mango: Another excellent option, very palatable for many geckos.
Figs (fresh): High in calcium and a good occasional treat.
Berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries): Offer these in moderation due to sugar content, but they are generally safe.
Peaches: Remove the pit and offer in moderation.
Apricots: Similar to peaches, pit removed, moderation is key.

These fruits can be mashed or pureed and mixed into their prepared gecko diet, or offered in small amounts as a treat.

Fruits to Offer in Moderation

Some fruits are generally safe but should only be given occasionally due to their higher sugar content, lower calcium-to-phosphorus ratio, or other factors. Think of these as special treats, not daily staples.

Bananas: While geckos often love them, bananas are high in phosphorus and sugar. Offer sparingly.
Apples (without seeds): Can be offered, but ensure they are peeled and seeds removed. Not a primary source of nutrients.
Pears (without seeds): Similar to apples, offer peeled and deseeded in small quantities.
Melons (cantaloupe, honeydew): High water content and sugar. Good for hydration but not nutrient-dense enough for frequent feeding.

Always remember that variety is important, but moderation is key for these particular fruits.

Fruits to Absolutely Avoid (And Why!)

Just as there are good fruits, there are also some that are outright harmful or problematic for your crested gecko. Avoiding these can prevent serious health issues.

Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Lemons, Limes, Grapefruits): Highly acidic and can cause digestive upset. Never offer these.
Avocado: Contains persin, which is toxic to many animals, including reptiles. Absolutely avoid.
Rhubarb: Very high in oxalates, which can bind calcium and lead to calcium deficiency.
Star Fruit: Also high in oxalates.
Any fruit seeds or pits: Many contain cyanide or other harmful compounds. Always remove seeds from apples, pears, peaches, etc.

When in doubt, it's always safer to stick to the well-known safe options or consult with an exotics veterinarian.

How to Prepare Fruits for Your Crested Gecko

Preparing fruits is simple! Always wash the fruit thoroughly to remove pesticides or dirt. Then, you can peel it if necessary (like apples or bananas). Most geckos prefer their fruit mashed or pureed into a smooth consistency, as they can't chew solid pieces very well.

You can mix a small amount of fruit with their commercial crested gecko diet or offer it in a separate, shallow dish a couple of times a week as a treat. Remember, fresh fruit should only make up a small percentage of their overall diet.

Conclusion

So, when considering what fruits can crested geckos eat, remember that balance and moderation are key! Focus on fruits like papaya and mango for their excellent nutritional profile, offer some berries or peaches occasionally, and strictly avoid toxic options like citrus and avocado. By providing a varied and appropriate diet, including safe fruits, you'll help ensure your crested gecko lives a long, happy, and healthy life. Always prioritize their commercial diet and insects as the main food sources, with fruits as a delightful supplement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can crested geckos eat bananas?: Yes, but only in very small amounts and infrequently. Bananas are high in sugar and phosphorus, making them less ideal than other fruits.
How often should I feed my crested gecko fruit?: Fresh fruit should be offered as a treat, no more than 1-2 times per week. Their primary diet should be a high-quality crested gecko complete diet and feeder insects.
Do I need to peel fruits for my crested gecko?: For some fruits like apples or pears, it's recommended to peel them to remove any waxy coatings or potential pesticides. For others like berries or papaya, peeling isn't strictly necessary but ensure they are thoroughly washed.
What if my crested gecko doesn't like fruit?: That's perfectly fine! As long as they are eating their commercial complete diet and appropriate insects, they are getting all the necessary nutrients. Fruit is a supplement, not a requirement, if their main diet is balanced.

what fruits can crested geckos eat

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