General care for Cat Geckos, additional research may apply
Cat Geckos
The Cat Gecko is an uncommon semi-arboreal gecko species, and has always had the attention of the gecko enthusiasts. Their name derives from their cat-like movements and the habit of curling up with their tail wrapped around themselves while sleeping.
Cat Gecko Care
Cat Geckos are found in Indonesia, Thailand and other surrounding countries. The two most commonly recognized and available subspecies in captivity are Aeluroscalabotes felinus and dorsalis. These geckos inhabit mountainous forests with cooler temperatures compared to the general climate of Southeast Asia. For instance, in the Cameron Highlands of peninsular Malaysia, located approximately 1830m above sea level, average daytime temperatures hover around 70°F, while nighttime temperatures drop to around 50°F. The region experiences the heaviest rainfall from September to early December, with Malaysia generally having a wet climate year-round. Creating an enclosure that replicates their natural environment is crucial, considering their slow and precise movements and adaptations for life in trees. Cat Geckos have a slender body and nibble legs. These geckos display chameleon-like ability as they grasp branches, and their movement is deliberate and slow. While hunting, they stalk their prey rather than engaging in quick pursuits. Their large nocturnal eyes are another remarkable feature, and like Leopard Geckos, they have eyelids. To ensure their well-being, adult Cat Geckos should be kept in sterile or bio-active, naturalistic environments that provide a sense of security. Males and females should be housed separately and only introduced for breeding purposes.
Recommended terrarium sizes are approximately 12x12x18 (LxWxH) inches for males and 24x18x18 inches for females (or 36x18x18 inches for two females). Temperature plays a crucial role, with the daytime range of 75-82°F and nighttime temperatures between 66-72°F. Extreme temperature fluctuations should be avoided. Lighting can be provided for 12 hours on and 12 hours off. Given their climbing abilities, the enclosure should contain plenty of thin branches. Suitable live plants are recommended. The substrate should be a mix of zoomed reptisoil, sphagnum moss, and coco fiber to maintain adequate humidity. Light spraying once a day helps maintain humidity levels of 65-80% during the day and over 90% at night. Hatchlings can initially be kept in a shoebox set up with paper towel substrate, thin branches, and a moist hiding place. After 6-8 weeks, they can be moved to larger 12x8x8-inch boxes with a similar setup as the males. Cat Geckos are effective hunters and will consume various insects such as roaches, crickets, mealworms, and snails (especially for gravid females). They have a slow, methodical approach to hunting. Offering 3 to 5 appropriately sized insects every other night is recommended, as introducing too many feeders at once can cause stress. Any uneaten prey should be removed in the morning. Due to claims of mineral sensitivity within the genus, supplementation should be provided lightly.
Cat Geckos For Sale in the Pet Trade
Captive Bred Cat Geckos are rare but there are some dedicated hobbyist breeders and professionals working on increasing the number of CB Cat Geckos – definitely a step in the right direction! Wild Caught Geckos are not recommended for beginner hobbyists. If you are a breeder and are interested in purchasing wild caught stock for your breeding programs, reach out to us, we would love to help supply you with quality imported Cat Geckos.
The ethical collection and sustainability of species Imported and Exported are monitored by USFWS & CITES.
CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) is an international agreement between governments. Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten the survival of the species.
How does CITES work?: https://cites.org/eng/disc/how.php