Crested geckos, affectionately known as "cresties," have gained immense popularity as pets due to their calm demeanor, striking appearance, and relatively simple care requirements. A crucial aspect of responsible crested gecko ownership is ensuring they receive a balanced and nutritious diet. The Repashy crested gecko diet has become a staple for many gecko keepers, offering a convenient and complete nutritional solution. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of the Repashy diet, exploring its benefits, proper preparation techniques, and how to incorporate it into a well-rounded feeding regimen for your crested gecko.
Understanding the Nutritional Needs of Crested Geckos
Crested geckos are omnivorous creatures, meaning they thrive on a combination of plant-based and animal-based nutrients. In their natural habitat, these geckos consume a diverse range of insects, fruits, and plant matter to satisfy their dietary requirements. Proper nutrition is paramount for crested geckos, as it directly impacts their growth, immune system function, and overall well-being. A diet deficient in essential nutrients can lead to various health complications, including metabolic bone disease, vitamin deficiencies, and reproductive issues.
Repashy Crested Gecko Diet: A Convenient and Comprehensive Solution
The Repashy crested gecko diet has emerged as a popular and widely trusted nutritional supplement specifically formulated for these arboreal lizards. One of the primary advantages of the Repashy diet lies in its convenience. Rather than meticulously preparing a complex mixture of various food items, you can simply combine the Repashy powder with water to create a nutritious and palatable meal for your pet.
Types of Repashy Diets
Repashy offers a variety of formulas to cater to different preferences and needs:
- Repashy Crested Gecko Diet "Classic": A "remix" of the original formula, featuring banana, date, and fig as primary fruits, with whey protein and egg as protein and fat sources.
- Ingredients: Dried Banana, Whey Protein Isolate, Dried Date, Dried Egg, Dried Honey, Dried Fig, Cane Molasses, Dicalcium Phosphate, Coconut Meal, Calcium Carbonate, Lecithin, Citric Acid, Locust Bean Gum, Methionine, Taurine, Dried Kelp, Dried Watermelon, Rose Hips, Hibiscus Flower, Marigold Flower, Paprika, Turmeric, Salt, Calcium Propionate and Potassium Sorbate (as preservatives), Natural Flavors, Magnesium Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Methionine Hydroxy Analogue Chelate, Manganese Methionine Hydroxy Analogue Chelate, Copper Methionine Hydroxy Analogue Chelate.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein min. 20%, Crude Fat min. 4.5%, Crude Fiber max. 5%, Moisture max. 8%, Ash max. 8%, Calcium min.
- Repashy Seasonal Blend Gecko Diet: A limited-edition seasonal blend for fruit-eating omnivorous species.
- Ingredients: Dried Banana, Whey Protein Isolate, Pineapple Powder, Black Soldier Fly Larvae Meal, Whole Dried Egg, Dried Date, Molasses, Coconut Milk, Calcium Carbonate, Dicalcium Phosphate, Lecithin, Taurine, Dried Kelp, Dried Watermelon, Citric Acid, Salt, Calcium Propionate and Potassium Sorbate (as preservatives), Natural Flavor, Magnesium Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Methionine Hydroxy Analogue Chelate, Manganese Methionine Hydroxy Analogue Chelate, Copper Methionine Hydroxy Analogue Chelate.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein min. 20%, Crude Fat min. 5%, Crude Fiber max. 3%, Moisture max. 8%, Ash max. 7%, Calcium min.
- Repashy Seasonal Gecko Diet: Another seasonal option featuring chicken and insect as the primary protein sources.
- Ingredients: Banana Powder, Chicken Broth, Fig Powder, Date Powder, Black Soldier Fly Larvae Meal, Whole Dried Egg, Dried Date, Coconut Milk Powder, Beet Root, Calcium Carbonate, Dicalcium Phosphate, Lecithin, Taurine, Dried Kelp, Dried Watermelon, Citric Acid, Salt, Calcium Propionate and Potassium Sorbate (as preservatives), Natural Flavor, Magnesium Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Methionine Hydroxy Analogue Chelate, Manganese Methionine Hydroxy Analogue Chelate, Copper Methionine Hydroxy Analogue Chelate.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein min. 20%, Crude Fat min. 5%, Crude Fiber max. 3%, Moisture max. 8%, Ash max. 7%, Calcium min.
- Repashy Meal Replacement Powder (MRP): Designed for all fruit-eating geckos, including Rhacodactylus, Phelsuma, and Gekko species.
- Ingredients: Dried Banana, Dried Date, Pea Protein, Rice Protein, Dried Fig, Stabilized Rice Bran, Coconut Meal, Ground Flaxseed, Dried Mango, Cane Molasses, Lecithin, Algae Meal, Calcium Carbonate, Dicalcium Phosphate, Taurine, Dried Kelp, Dried Watermelon, RoseHips, Hibiscus Flower, Marigold Flower, Paprika, Turmeric, Citric Acid, Salt, Calcium Propionate and Potassium Sorbate (as preservatives), Natural Flavor, Magnesium Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Methionine Hydroxy Analogue Chelate, Manganese Methionine Hydroxy Analogue Chelate, Copper Methionine Hydroxy Analogue Chelate, Selenium Yeast.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein min. 23%, Crude Fat min. 6%, Crude Fiber max. 8%, Moisture max. 8%, Ash max. 8%, Calcium min.
Preparing the Repashy Diet: A Step-by-Step Guide
Mixing the Repashy diet is a simple process, but adhering to the instructions is crucial to ensure your crested gecko receives the correct nutrition.
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- Measure the appropriate amount of Repashy powder: The quantity of powder required will depend on the size and age of your crested gecko. Refer to the product packaging for specific dosage recommendations.
- Add water: Slowly add the recommended amount of water, typically a 2:1 ratio of water to powder (e.g., two parts water to one part CGD).
- Mix thoroughly: Stir the mixture until it forms a smooth, consistent paste. The mixture may initially appear watery but will thicken after several minutes. If separation occurs over time, reduce the amount of water used in subsequent preparations.
- Consistency: The final consistency of the Repashy diet should resemble ketchup.
Feeding Frequency and Portion Size
The frequency and portion size of the Repashy diet will vary depending on your crested gecko's age, size, and individual appetite. It's essential to monitor your gecko's body condition and adjust the feeding schedule accordingly.
- Juveniles: Young, growing crested geckos require more frequent feedings to support their rapid development. Offer the Repashy diet every day or every other day.
- Adults: Adult crested geckos can be fed every other day or every three days.
- Overweight Geckos: Reduce meal frequency and portion sizes for overweight crested geckos, sometimes feeding once every 5-7 days. Visible rolls on their sides often indicate obesity.
Enhancing the Repashy Diet: Variety and Enrichment
While the Repashy crested gecko diet provides a comprehensive and balanced nutritional foundation, incorporating additional food items can enhance your pet's diet and provide enrichment.
Live Insects
Insects offer enrichment and exercise, aiding in juvenile growth and helping underweight adults gain weight. Even with a high-quality crested gecko diet, offering bugs is beneficial.
- Crickets: A valuable source of protein.
- Dubia roaches: Another excellent source of protein.
Insects should be offered 1-2 times per week for optimal results. Before feeding insects to your gecko, ensure they are "gut-loaded" with a nutrient-dense insect supplement to enhance their nutritional value. Dust insects with a calcium supplement containing vitamin D before each feeding session.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables can supplement the Repashy diet, providing additional vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
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- Safe options: Mango, banana, papaya, and other non-citrus fruits.
- Moderation is key: Due to the higher sugar content in domesticated fruits, they should be offered sparingly as treats.
Water
Always provide fresh, clean water daily. While crested geckos can obtain moisture from their food, access to clean water is essential.
Addressing Common Feeding Challenges
- Refusal to eat: Some crested geckos may initially refuse the Repashy diet. Try offering it in different ways, such as using a syringe or feeding tongs.
- Digestive upset: Transitioning to the Repashy diet may cause digestive upset in some geckos. Introduce new foods gradually and in small amounts.
- Food Preferences: Some geckos may prefer insects over prepared diets. In such cases, remember that the crested gecko diet should constitute the majority of their food intake.
General Crested Gecko Care
In addition to proper nutrition, providing appropriate environmental conditions is crucial for your crested gecko's health and well-being.
- Enclosure: A single adult crested gecko requires a tank that is 20 gallons or larger, with height being more important than floor space due to their arboreal nature.
- Temperature: Maintain a thermal gradient within the enclosure, allowing the gecko to regulate its body temperature. Use an incandescent light or ceramic heat emitter to create a basking area.
- Humidity: Aim for a humidity range of 70-80% to support respiratory health and shedding. Provide a humid hide with moistened sphagnum moss or paper towels.
- Substrate: Use a substrate that retains moisture well, such as coconut fiber, dampened sphagnum moss, or reptile carpet.
- Enrichment: Include branches, non-toxic live or plastic plants, and hiding spots to create a stimulating and secure environment.
- Hygiene: Spot-clean the enclosure daily and disinfect it thoroughly at least once a week.
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