Why is My Leopard Gecko Making Clicking Noise? Common Causes Explained

It’s understandable to be concerned when you notice your leopard gecko exhibiting unusual behaviors, like making a clicking noise. This article will explore the common reasons behind this sound and help you determine if it’s a cause for concern.

Understanding Making Clicking Noise in Leopard Geckos

While making clicking noises can sometimes be a normal part of a leopard gecko’s behavior, it’s crucial to understand the context. It isn’t necessarily always a sign of something wrong, but it warrants investigation. It can be a form of communication, an indication of discomfort, or even a sign of a respiratory issue in some cases. Observing your gecko closely and evaluating other potential symptoms is key to understanding the root cause.

Common Causes for Making Clicking Noise

Here are some of the most likely reasons why your leopard gecko might be making a clicking noise:

• Respiratory Issues: This is perhaps the most concerning cause. Respiratory infections (RIs) in leopard geckos can manifest as clicking noises, often accompanied by other symptoms. The clicking may be due to mucus or inflammation in the airways.
• Shedding Issues: Leopard geckos that are having difficulty shedding, particularly around the mouth or nose, may make clicking noises while trying to dislodge the stuck shed. This is often accompanied by visible pieces of shed skin or reluctance to eat.
• Communication/Defensive Behavior: Leopard geckos may click as a form of communication. This can sometimes be a sign they’re agitated or defensive, particularly if they feel threatened. Observe their body language – are they posturing defensively, hissing, or trying to get away?
• Environmental Factors (Temperature/Humidity): Incorrect temperature and humidity levels can impact a leopard gecko’s health and behavior. If the enclosure is too cold, they may struggle to breathe properly, resulting in clicking sounds. Excessively dry environments can also contribute to shedding problems, which, as mentioned above, can lead to clicking.

When You Should Be Concerned

Making Clicking Noise can be a sign of a more serious health issue when accompanied by any of the following symptoms:

• Lethargy: A significant decrease in activity level or a lack of interest in their surroundings.
• Loss of Appetite: Refusing to eat or showing a decreased interest in food.
• Weight Loss: A noticeable decrease in body mass.
• Discharge from the Nose or Mouth: Any fluid coming from these areas is a clear sign of illness.
• Labored Breathing: Obvious difficulty breathing, open-mouthed breathing, or unusual movements of the throat.
• Wheezing or Raspy Sounds: Along with clicking, these sounds point strongly towards a respiratory issue.
• Changes in Feces/Urates: Unusual color, consistency, or absence of feces/urates.

What to Do Next

If you’re concerned about your leopard gecko’s clicking noise, here are some steps you can take:

• Check Environmental Parameters:
  • Verify the temperatures in the warm hide, cool hide, and basking spot using accurate thermometers. Ensure they fall within the recommended range.
  • Check the humidity level with a hygrometer and adjust as needed.
• Observe for Other Symptoms: Closely monitor your gecko for any of the warning signs listed above. The more information you can gather, the better.
• Reduce Potential Stressors: Minimize handling, loud noises, and other disturbances that might be stressing your gecko.
• Ensure Proper Diet and Hydration: Offer fresh water daily and ensure they are eating a balanced diet of appropriate insects. Dust insects with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements as recommended.
• Consider Recent Changes: Have you recently changed their enclosure, introduced a new pet, or made any other significant changes to their environment? These can be sources of stress.
• Consult an Exotic Veterinarian: If you’re worried, or if the clicking noise persists or is accompanied by any other concerning symptoms, immediately schedule an appointment with a veterinarian experienced in treating reptiles. This is the most important step.

Conclusion

Understanding your leopard gecko’s behavior is a continuous learning process. While clicking noises can sometimes be normal, it’s crucial to be observant and address any potential underlying issues promptly. When in doubt, seeking professional veterinary advice is always the best course of action to ensure your gecko remains healthy and happy.