Leopard geckos and other geckos are among the most popular reptile pets. Their welfare depends on precise environmental management and understanding of their often-misunderstood behavioral needs.
Gecko welfare is frequently compromised by misinformation about their care requirements. The widespread availability of low-quality care guides that recommend minimal enclosure sizes, inadequate heating equipment, and no UVB lighting has created generations of reptile keepers who unknowingly maintain their animals in chronic poor welfare. Geckos experiencing thermal stress, nutritional deficiency, or inappropriate light cycles cannot thrive even when they appear alive and mobile. The welfare challenges are exacerbated by the perception that reptiles do not suffer or have minimal emotional lives, leading to neglect that would be considered unacceptable for a mammal or bird with equivalent signs of distress.