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My reptile is not eating – causes and first steps

A checklist from stress to shedding – and when to see a vet

First step: leave it in peace

Stress is one of the most common reasons for a refusal to feed. Leave your animal alone as much as possible and avoid handling for the time being.

What to check

  • Temperatures: are the basking spot and the temperature gradient in the vivarium correct?
  • Cover: are there enough hides? Too little cover means constant stress.
  • Vivarium size: a vivarium that is too large and open can also stress young animals.
  • Shedding: many animals stop feeding around a shed – that is completely normal.
  • Feeding: is the prey the right size? With frozen food: warm it thoroughly and dry to body temperature (around 36 °C) and offer it in the evening or at night.

Feel free to send us a photo of your vivarium setup as well – it makes it much easier for us to spot possible stress factors.

If your animal refuses food over a longer period, visibly loses weight or appears lethargic, please see a reptile-experienced vet. Advice by email is no substitute for a clinical examination.