Are you planning a short trip and want to make sure your leopard gecko has enough water?
Are you concerned your leopard gecko might get dehydrated?
When you learn about what a leopard gecko needs to survive and thrive, you might wonder:
How long can a leopard gecko go without water?
At best, your gecko can survive just a few days without water. Don’t go more than three days, or dehydration can occur. They require a shallow dish with fresh water set on the cooler side of their tank and also do well when provided with regular misting in their tank.
Whether you are going on vacation or just extra busy one week, be sure your gecko is given fresh water regularly.
Continue reading this article for more information on how long a leopard gecko can survive without water.
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How Long Can A Leopard Gecko Go Without Water
Water is a necessary component of life for plants and animals on the planet, and leopard geckos are no different.
These animals do best when given water daily to survive and be healthy.
Sometimes things happen, and you might not be able to give them a new bowl of water or any water at all.
Leopard geckos can go for a day or two without water, but any more than two or three days can seriously harm your pet or even lead to its death.
Three days is about the maximum you can push it, or else your leopard gecko can get dehydrated and die.
To keep your animal at peak health, provide them with a shallow dish filled with fresh, chlorine-free water once per day.
De-chlorinated water is preferred as using distilled water can cause medical issues for your pet.
This is because it has a lack of nutrients and minerals.
You should also avoid giving your Leo untreated tap water as there could be chemicals or other things in the water we know to be unhealthy for your pet.
You will need to place the dish on the cooler side of the tank.
A shallow dish is required to prevent your leopard gecko and the food you add to the tank for your pet to eat, from drowning.
The gecko will likely use the water dish not only as a source of drinking water but also as a spot to bathe, so keeping the water clean is very important.
A lack of water will lead to dehydration and, ultimately, death.
If you are unable to provide your gecko with water for days on end, you are likely to have, at best, an unhealthy pet.
At worst, you might come home to a deceased pet, so be sure you are vigilant or find someone to help you care for the animal if you can’t.
What To Do With Your Gecko When You Go Away
Whether you are getting away for a weekend or a whole week, your gecko should be part of the plan.
Your getaway might be for work or vacation, but before you go make every effort to make sure your leopard gecko will be given care.
Take Your Gecko With You
On some occasions, you will be able to pack up and take your leopard gecko with you, but we don’t recommend this for geckos who can’t be handled or are sensitive to changes in their environment.
If you are getting away for a weekend, your Leo will probably be ok at home, as they can make it, at most, two days without fresh water, but it isn’t a bad idea to find someone who can check in on your gecko.
When you travel with your gecko, pack it up using a deli cup with holes punched in it for ventilation.
We recommend this over just leaving the Leo in its tank, as this will prevent your gecko from falling and injuring itself in the event of a sudden stop or an accident.
Once you arrive at your destination, set up the gecko’s enclosure and return the animal to its home.
It is a good idea not to feed geckos before travel as some may regurgitate their latest meal.
Leave Your Gecko At Home
If you are not able to take your gecko with you or don’t want to go through the hassle of moving their entire habitat to go on vacation, you could leave your leopard gecko at home with preparation.
There are a few options to explore when it comes to leaving your pet leopard gecko at home.
There are some pet stores, sitters, or facilities which will board your gecko, but there is a daily fee to do this.
If you do your homework on the place, this will provide your leopard gecko with qualified and quality care while you are away.
As a downside, the costs can add up, and you do run the risk of your gecko developing a disease if quarantine protocols are not followed.
Experienced caregivers in your area can also be found, especially if you have multiple geckos or require specific needs.
Mostly these are paid pet sitters who come into your home and provide care while you are away.
If boarding or an experienced caregiver isn’t available or your first choice, find a friend to come and check on the gecko while you’re gone.
Be sure to go over all information and even leave written instructions to help your friend or family member properly care for your pet.
Conclusion
Leaving your leopard gecko without water for an extended time can have terrible effects on their health.
Dehydration can lead to the death of your leopard gecko.
If you are going to be unable to provide them with fresh water for more than a day or two and up to three days, be sure to find someone who can help you out and deliver the water they need.
