Why is My Leopard Gecko Closing One Eye? Common Causes Explained

Seeing your Leopard Gecko close one eye can be concerning. You might worry that something is wrong with your beloved pet. This article will explore some of the most common reasons why your gecko might be exhibiting this behavior.

Understanding Closing One Eye in Leopard Geckos

While occasional, brief eye closures can be normal for Leopard Geckos – perhaps they’re simply resting or momentarily bothered by something – consistently closing one eye is generally a sign that something isn’t quite right. It often indicates discomfort or irritation affecting that specific eye. It’s important to investigate the potential causes to ensure your gecko’s well-being.

Common Causes for Closing One Eye

There are several reasons why your Leopard Gecko might be closing one eye. Here are some of the most common:

• Shedding Issues:

  • Leopard Geckos shed their skin regularly. Sometimes, shed skin can get stuck around the eye, causing irritation and prompting them to keep it closed. This is especially common if the humidity in their enclosure is too low. Leftover shed skin can restrict vision, cause discomfort, and even lead to infection if not addressed.

  • Substrate Irritation:

  • Certain substrates, like loose sand, can easily get into a gecko’s eye, causing irritation. This is especially true if they’re actively digging or exploring. Particulate substrates can also harbor bacteria and debris, exacerbating the issue. Avoid loose particulate substrate, especially if the gecko has existing eye issues.

  • Environmental Irritants:

  • Dust, aerosols, or strong fumes (like cleaning products or air fresheners) near the enclosure can irritate your gecko’s eyes. Ensure the enclosure is in a well-ventilated area away from potential sources of airborne irritants. Even some reptile-safe cleaning products can cause irritation if used improperly.

  • Injury:

  • A scratch or other injury to the eye can cause pain and lead to the gecko keeping it closed. This might happen if they accidentally rub against a rough surface in their enclosure or during handling. Check the eye carefully for any visible signs of trauma.

  • Vitamin A Deficiency:

  • While less common with proper supplementation, a Vitamin A deficiency can manifest in eye problems, including swelling and discharge, which can prompt a gecko to keep an eye closed. Ensure your gecko is receiving a balanced diet and appropriate vitamin supplementation.

When You Should Be Concerned

Closing one eye is a symptom that can be associated with more serious health problems. It’s important to monitor your gecko closely and look for other warning signs. You should be concerned and consult an exotic veterinarian if you observe any of the following along with the closed eye:

• Lethargy: Reduced activity levels or reluctance to move.
• Lack of Appetite: Refusal to eat or significantly reduced food intake.
• Weight Loss: Noticeable thinning of the body or tail.
• Discharge from the Eye: Any pus-like or watery substance coming from the affected eye.
• Swelling around the Eye: Noticeable puffiness or inflammation.
• Rubbing the Eye: Repeatedly rubbing the eye against objects.
• Changes in Feces/Urates: Diarrhea, constipation, or unusual colors in their waste.
• Cloudiness of the Eye: A cloudy or opaque appearance to the cornea.
• Visible Injury: Any cut, scratch, or other visible damage to the eye or surrounding area.

What to Do Next

If your Leopard Gecko is closing one eye, here are some steps you can take:

• Double-check all habitat parameters: Ensure the temperature, humidity, and lighting are within the ideal range for Leopard Geckos.
• Observe closely for other symptoms: Monitor your gecko’s behavior, appetite, and waste output for any other signs of illness.
• Reduce potential stressors: Minimize handling, loud noises, and other disturbances.
• Ensure proper diet and hydration: Offer fresh water daily and provide a balanced diet with appropriate vitamin supplementation (particularly vitamin A).
• Carefully inspect the eye: Look for signs of injury, stuck shed, or discharge. If you see stuck shed, you can gently attempt to remove it with a damp cotton swab. Be extremely careful not to damage the eye.
• Consider recent changes: Have you introduced any new decorations, substrates, or cleaning products to the enclosure recently? If so, they could be the cause.
• Consult an exotic veterinarian: If the behavior persists for more than a day or two, if it worsens, or if you observe any of the concerning symptoms listed above, it’s crucial to seek professional veterinary attention.

Conclusion

Closing one eye in Leopard Geckos can be a complex symptom with various underlying causes. Careful observation, diligent husbandry, and prompt veterinary care are essential for ensuring your gecko’s health and well-being. Remember that online advice is not a substitute for a proper veterinary examination.