Leopard Gecko not eating?

Question

I just adopted a leopard gecko from the pet store that I work at. He was given to us by a family that didn't want him anymore. He hasn't eaten in at least four days. I've offered crickets and he's got a dish of wax worms - I've done alot of research but I can't figure out if this is normal behavior. Is it ok for him to go awhile without eating? Is it stress related or could he be sick? He's a big guy, about 6-7 inches long, looks healthy, is fairly active.

Please, answers from those with reptile knowledge only, no guesses.

Answer 1

does he have a thick tail....if so that is a good sign....if not ...there is a problem

Lack of calcium

Answer 2

Probably stress from the move.  Give him more time to adjust--at least a week.  Make sure not to use any kind of sand or loose substrate as the risk of impaction is high.  The heat mat needs to be set so the surface temp is 88-91F.  They also need a humid hide to assist with shedding.  Fave site:

http://www.drgecko.com/index.html

Answer 3

Its fairly normal for them not to eat when stressed and for a new home to cause a lot of stress - so i think it is safe to presume that is what is happening.

What you need to do is leave the little guy alone. Don't pick him up or expose him for a week at least. Don't even try to hand feed him.

Take out the dish of waxworms, they should be a treat only. Stick in a known number of gutloaded mealworms instead until he is calm.

He should come round in his own time.

What you need to be watching for is his tail becoming thin. It should be nice and fat - anywhere from half to two thirds of the width of his body.

If he is losing weight or already thin or hasn't eaten anything for over two weeks - take him to the vet for a check up.

Also - 6-7 inches isn't big at all... my adult male is 9inch+.