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Start with the right enclosure
An adult leopard gecko needs at least a 36"x18"x18" (roughly 40-gallon) enclosure with front-opening access. Front doors matter more than most guides admit — reaching in from above mimics a predator and stresses ground-dwelling geckos.
Our top pick is the Exo Terra 36x18x18 for its deep substrate tray and cable routing, with the REPTI ZOO 50-gallon as the best-value alternative.
Heat from below, UVB from above
Leopard geckos digest using belly heat, so an under-tank heater covering roughly one third of the floor is the classic solution — but it must be paired with a thermostat. An unregulated heat mat is the number one cause of burns in this species.
Modern research also supports low-level UVB. The Arcadia ShadeDweller 7% kit is tuned for crepuscular species and lets your gecko synthesize D3 naturally.
Substrate and supplements
For juveniles and beginners, reptile carpet or slate tile removes all impaction risk. Experienced keepers can graduate to compacted clay or stone-desert mixes that allow natural digging.
Dust every feeding with phosphorus-free calcium, and rotate in a multivitamin once or twice a week. The Rep-Cal calcium + Herptivite combo has been the hobby standard for decades.
Products Mentioned in This Guide
Live Dubia Roaches (Mixed Sizes)
Real product photo to be added
food-feeders
Live Dubia Roaches (Mixed Sizes)
Best for: A nutritious everyday staple
$15–$30
Zoo Med Can O' Worms & Mealworm Combo
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food-feeders
Zoo Med Can O' Worms & Mealworm Combo
Best for: Convenience and variety
$8–$14
Live Waxworms (Treat Feeder)
Real product photo to be added
food-feeders
Live Waxworms (Treat Feeder)
Best for: Getting reluctant feeders eating
$10–$18