Crested geckos are commonly known for their distinctive feature that are eyelashes. Due to this, they are sometimes called eyelash geckos. They often suffer with eye problems and infections. The eyes become swollen due to fluid build-up, which is also one of the most common symptoms to look for when identifying an eye infection in your crested gecko.
If there is no swelling but you see a discharge coming from the eyes then that could be a sign of cataract or internal eye damage. If you realize there is an eye infection in your crested gecko’s eye, then you must consult your vet as soon as possible for proper treatment.
Symptoms of eye infections among crested geckos
The following are the symptoms of eye infections among crested geckos;
- Twitching and blinking of eyes
- Baggy eyes
- Swelling or bulging of eyes
- Eye discharge
- Scratching and rubbing of eyes
Cause of eye infection among crested geckos
Crested geckos are more vulnerable to infections and damage due to the absence of eyelids. Factors that may cause eye infections among crested geckos are as follows:
Incomplete shedding:
Their eyes also shed just like the rest of their body. They turn cloudy but then return to their normal transparent state after shedding.
Due to dry living conditions, dead skin might get stuck onto your gecko’s eye and result in an eye infection.
Ticks and mites:
Eye infections caused by ticks and mites can take place from sources like food or some substrates. These are the kinds of external parasites that feed on the blood of reptiles and may lead to anemia if found in large quantities.
In severe cases, ticks and mites can get into the tank through food, water, substrates, and more. They can also cause ulcers and clog the respiratory passages of crested geckos if not treated on time.
Blocked tear duct:
In this condition, the tears can’t drain normally, leaving the eyes watery and irritated. This is caused by a partial or complete obstruction in the tear drainage system. This is common in crested geckos as backing up of the tear section may lead the tear duct to block.
The fluid in the eye rises and causes irritation that may contain bacteria, which results in a severe eye infection.
Ulcers:
Eyes infections in crested geckos may be a result of corneal diseases that happen from time to time. If not treated properly, they may lead to trauma and ulcers in the eyes. In severe conditions, the vet will recommend the use of antibiotics, anti-inflammatory and pain medications.
Uveitis:
The eye inflammation badly affects the middle layers of tissues found in eyes of crested geckos. In such a condition, your gecko may suffer from swallowing in eyes, red eyes, blurred vision, and more.
This condition is not that common in crested geckos as it appears post-hibernation. However, if they are affected by it, it can easily lead to an eye infection.
Tumors:
Neoplasm is an abnormal growth of cells that are known as tumors. Neoplastic diseases are conditions that cause the growth of tumors. They may occur around the eye and may lead to serious eye infections if not treated properly.
Read more on Crested gecko care.
Cataract:
The eye lens loses some of its elasticity and the ability to focus as we grow older which is why some people start using glasses. This condition is known as Cataract. The same is the case with reptiles like crested geckos.
Apart from old age, systemic diseases can also lead to the lens becoming opaque, causing cataracts and it can lead to blindness. If you suspect that your gecko’s eye issues could be related to cataracts try to look for these symptoms;
- Sight issues such as not noticing food in front of them
- Decreased appetite
Treatment of eye infection in crested geckos
Treating eye infections in crested geckos is very important. The treatment can be done by using topical antibiotics and systemic antibiotics. These antibiotics help in preventing bacterial growth around the eyes.
To achieve the desired results, these antibiotics are used along with flushing and cleaning the infected area of the eyes.
Preventive measures to control eye disease
To keep your crested gecko healthy, you must ensure to save your gecko from diseases. You may take preventive measures to save your gecko from eye infection such as:
- Try to keep the habitat that is neat and clean.
- Maintain a suitable temperature inside the tank to save your gecko from catching any disease. A high temperature may have a bad effect on the gecko’s body and may cause an eye infection. Use a thermostat to track temperature levels.
- Water bowls and substrate should be cleaned regularly.
- Choose the substrate inside the tank carefully. Try to stay away from sharp substrates such as gravel that may easily lead to bruises in the eyes.
- Misting is what maintains the humidity in your gecko’s enclosure. Mist twice per day, light one in the morning and stronger in the evening. Use a hygrometer to track the humidity levels.
- The edges in the gecko’s enclosure should be smooth. In case your gecko hits his head aggressively in the enclosure, the edges should be smooth enough to not hurt him back.
- Provide a nutritious diet to your gecko that helps his body to fight against any disease and also helps in increasing the immunity system.
- It is recommended to bathe your gecko in lukewarm water. Not only do geckos enjoy bathing but this is also a great way to bond with them and add more moisture to their body.
Conclusion:
If you suspect your crested gecko suffering from an eye infection, look out for symptoms such as swelling, eye discharge, or mucus, and your gecko scratching or rubbing their eyes. All you need is a proper treatment for this disease.
The use of antibiotics and drops may help in treating the eye infection, along with flushing, and cleaning the infected area to heal the eye. All you need is to take proper care as the irritation and swelling in the eyes may cause your crested gecko to get aggressive.
It is important to treat any eye problems quickly to give your gecko the best chance at recovering.
