Ask a Reptile Vet: How (and Why) to Gut-Load Crickets

July 6, 2021

Share this article

Ask a Reptile Vet: How (and Why) to Gut-Load Crickets

Dr. Gary Andes is a reptile vet in the  Kingsport  area who also treats birds, rare fish and exotics. From parakeets to pythons, the team at  Andes-Straley veterinary hospital  is here to deliver the best veterinary care to all of your pets, whether they’re scaled, feathered, scaled or fluffy. We’re here to help pet owners in the Tri-State region tackle reptile diet, behavior, housing and more.

Today, Kingsport’s reptile vet Dr. Andes discusses the topic of gut-loading crickets, why we do it and how.

What Is Gut-Loading?

For most reptile owners, gut-loading is a familiar process. The idea is that well-fed crickets supply better nutrition to your insectivorous reptiles like bearded dragons,  tokay geckos  and anoles.

For reptile enthusiasts with a small collection, this is an easy task.

  • Provide adequate food and water to your feeders
  • Feed crickets a few hours before feeding your reptiles
  • Use cricket feeding solutions if you need to be away from them for a few days

Choose vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and leafy greens which are nutrient-rich. Avoid iceberg lettuce (it’s mostly water) and spinach (it blocks calcium absorption).

Reptile Vets Agree: Don’t Forget to “Dust” Feeders.

One of the most common diseases reptile vets treat is  metabolic bone disease. It’s caused by a lack of calcium and vitamin D3. So be sure to “dust” your feeders with a vitamin supplement before feeding and replace UV light sources as needed — even a few times a year.

Symptoms of metabolic bone disease include fragile bones, jaw deformities and muscle twitching. It’s a painful condition that’s easy to prevent with diet but hard to fix once it occurs.

Your exotic reptiles, snakes, amphibians and birds require different care than your neighbor’s cats and dogs. But they’re still worthy of excellent veterinary care.  Contact us today for an appointment for your reptile.

Recent Posts

By premier December 27, 2024
As pet owners, we know our furry companions can’t tell us when they’re feeling unwell. That’s why it’s crucial to pay attention to subtle changes in their behavior, habits, or appearance that could indicate a health issue. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you identify those signs and ensure your pet gets […] The post When to Take Your Pet to the Vet: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier December 18, 2024
The holiday season is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and festive decorations, but it can also bring unique challenges for pet owners. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we want to ensure that your furry family members stay safe and happy throughout the season. From glittering ornaments to tempting holiday treats, here are some essential […] The post Holiday Safety Tips for Pets appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier December 11, 2024
When it comes to leaving your pet in someone else’s care, their safety and well-being are every pet owner’s top priorities. Whether you’re heading out of town for a vacation or a work trip, choosing the right boarding option is crucial. Boarding your pet at a veterinary facility, like Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, offers unmatched […] The post Why Boarding at a Veterinary Facility is Safer for Your Pet appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier December 4, 2024
As temperatures drop, our pets need extra attention to ensure they stay safe and comfortable during the winter months. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we understand how much your furry friends mean to you, so we’ve put together essential tips for cold-weather pet care. 1. Protect Those Precious Paws Cold weather can be harsh on […] The post Keep Your Furry Friends Safe This Winter appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 26, 2024
Keeping pets active indoors can be a challenge, especially on rainy days or for those living in small spaces. However, regular exercise is crucial for pets’ health, helping to prevent weight gain, reduce stress, and keep their minds engaged. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we know that pets need exercise just as much as they […] The post Creative Exercise Ideas for Indoor Pets appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 20, 2024
As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving to celebrate and enjoy a delicious feast, it’s essential to remember that our pets may face some unexpected hazards around the holiday festivities. Keeping our pets safe during Thanksgiving requires a bit of planning and mindfulness, but it can make all the difference in ensuring a joyful […] The post Keeping Your Pets Safe During Thanksgiving appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 13, 2024
It’s natural to want to show your love for your pet through food and treats. After all, those excited tail wags and purrs of appreciation feel rewarding! However, what starts as a way to pamper your furry friend can lead to unintended consequences. Overfeeding, whether through large meal portions, too many treats, or “people food” […] The post The Dangers of Overfeeding appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 6, 2024
Matted fur can be an uncomfortable and potentially painful problem for dogs, especially for those with long or curly coats. Without regular care, matting can quickly get out of hand. This can cause discomfort, skin irritation, and even restricting movement if the matting becomes severe. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you […] The post Preventing and Treating Matted Fur appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier October 30, 2024
As the crisp autumn air settles in, it’s time to embrace the festive spirit of Halloween. While this holiday brings joy and excitement for many, it’s important to keep in mind that some Halloween traditions can pose risks to our furry friends. We’ll explore ways to ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for your pets, […] The post Halloween and Pets: Ensuring a Safe and Spooktacular Celebration appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier October 23, 2024
Did you know that one out of three pets becomes lost in their lifetime, according to the American Humane Association? Did you also know that over ten million cats and dogs are lost or stolen annually in the U.S? Out of these, only 23% get reunited with family. This is why a pet microchip is becoming […] The post Pet Microchip: A Guide to How It Works and Its Benefits appeared first on Andes-Straley.
Show More