Eye conditions in geckos

Geckos have extremely good eyes that see color and ultra violet light. Geckos eyelids are quite different to ours.

If you look at your own eye you will see that you have a big upper eyelid which comes down to cover your eye when you blink, and a much smaller lower eyelid. Some types of gecko, such as the Leopard Gecko, do have upper and lower eyelids, but the lower eyelid is the one which is bigger and stronger. Geckos also have a third eyelid which acts as extra protection and sweeps across the surface of the eye to clean it when they blink. However, in many types of gecko the eyelids have joined together to form one clear see-through eyelid which is called the spectacle.

The colored circle in your eye is called the iris; this determines whether the eyes are green, blue or brown. The pupil is in the centre of the iris; the pupil will be black and round and can become bigger or smaller depending on the amount of light in the environment and how much light it allows into the eye. Gecko’s do not have round pupils, they are slit-like, and often the iris is the same color as the pattern of their skin. Unlike us, your gecko can move his iris if he wants to!

Geckos have tiny bones in the white part of their eyes called scleral ossicles; these help to give the eyeball extra strength.

Skin that hasn’t shed around the eye area can cause poor eyesight and your gecko will have difficulty seeing his food.

Make sure your gecko has a hide with damp moss to help remove the old skin and increase the humidity in his house by spraying the tank; be careful though as too much humidity can lead to ulcers. Also ensure the temperature is right; too cold and he will struggle to shed.

You can also try putting a rolled-up damp towel inside the vivarium to provide a damp for abrasive environment for the gecko to rub against and aid shedding.

If you notice your gecko’s eyelids become glued together, it will be necessary to visit the veterinarian so necessary treatment can be given.

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the eyelids and is often caused by a bacterial infection.

Low temperatures in your gecko’s house will reduce his ability to fight infection as he is unable to maintain his optimal body temperature. Providing a balanced diet will help him fight infection. Conjunctivitis can be sore and prevent the gecko from opening his eyes. Not being able to see will prevent him from feeding; therefore, you may need to assist in finding his food whilst his eyes recover.

If your gecko has conjunctivitis you should take him to the veterinarian who will be able to prescribe appropriate treatment.

Hypovitaminosis A is caused by a diet lacking in vitamin A which can lead to swelling of the eyelids. Make sure you feed a balanced diet with enough vitamin A to prevent eye problems in your gecko.
 

Any trauma to your gecko’s eye could cause serious damage. This could happen in any number of ways, for example bedding caught in the eye or a scratch caused by a sharp object. An ulcer may form on the cornea, which is the transparent outer layer of the eye. Ulcers are very painful and in severe cases the eye could burst. If you see any abnormalities in the eye you must allow a veterinarian to examine your geckos eye.

To prevent eye trauma, you should check your gecko’s house and furniture carefully for any sharp objects. Remember to take extra care when handling your gecko outside of his house. Take care when selecting a UV light for your gecko’s house; inferior lights can emit harmful rays which could burn his eyes.

If you suspect your gecko has suffered trauma to his eye seek veterinary attention immediately so appropriate treatment can be prescribed. Eye damage is an emergency and if not treated in time your gecko may lose his eye.