Leopard Gecko Mouth Rot Explained Posted By: Michael Corben

Another common problem among leopard geckos aside from leopard gecko shedding problems is mouth rot. Leopard gecko mouth rot is also termed as stomatitis. It is a bacterial infection that can affect both the mouth and gums of a leopard gecko. Symptoms include bleeding gums, loss of appetite, blackening of the teeth, swollen mouth, and a cheesy, yellowish buildup between the teeth. A healthy leopard gecko must not develop this disease. It is generally caused by dirty living conditions and low temperatures. It is very painful for the reptile and can be fatal if it will not be treated by a veterinarian as quickly as possible. Cause Mostly mouth rot is developed in reptiles because of stress. Stress weakens the immune system of leopard geckos and thus makes them vulnerable to infection. Improper temperature, lighting, parasite infestation, and improper handling are the most common cause of stress in leopard geckos. Improper diet specifically vitamin C deficiency is also known to cause mouth rot among leopard geckos. Signs The early stage of mouth rots causes mouth swelling and increase salivation. As the condition worsens, the swelling in the mouth increases until such time that the gums will begin to bleed.leopard gecko feedleopard geckogeckogeckos