Along with providing your leopard geckos with a proper tank, you also need to nourish them with clean food and water. And this is why the choice of a drinking or eating bowl is essential.
Since not all pet bowls and dishes are the same size or shape, finding the ideal one for your pet’s needs can take more time and effort than you might expect.
With so many options available in the market, it’s important to pick a bowl ideal for your lizard, its environment, and the food he eats.
This article covers all you need to choose the best water and food bowl for your scaled friend.
Why Buy a Leopard Gecko Water and Food Bowl?
One of your primary responsibilities as a gecko parent is to provide your pet with adequate nutrition and hydration.
Although you would assume that any ordinary reptile bowl would be up to the task, a food and water dish unequivocally made for reptiles would be a worthwhile investment.
Keep in mind that different reptile species have different food requirements.
For instance, a turtle’s diet won’t be the same as a gecko’s because these two reptiles are separate species with distinct nutritional needs.
Your pet will be much more comfortable eating or drinking from a bowl appropriate for its size and shape. It doesn’t make sense to use a bowl explicitly made for Komodo dragons or snakes.
As a general rule of thumb, most small reptiles, including leos, do better with flatter and shallower water dishes.
Instead of just throwing in any spare dish you have in handy and calling it a day, it’s best to do some research and invest in proper food and water bowls for your scaled buddy.
How to Choose the Best Leopard Gecko Bowl
Selecting the best bowl for leopard geckos is essential to ensuring their health and happiness. The size, safety, material, and design of your reptile bowl have more to offer than it may seem.
Choosing the right size of your leopard gecko bowl, which is also sturdy enough, plays a critical role in withstanding the weight of your reptile. Meaning you won’t have to worry about breakages.
Keep in mind the safety of your lizard and select a bowl made of non-toxic material. Ideally, the best gecko bowl should be made of an FDA-approved resin or any other safe substance.
Besides, the best leopard gecko bowl should prevent the formation of bacteria, thus keeping your cute pet from diseases. Plus, it should be easy to clean.
What’s more, take into consideration the overall design of the bowl and select one that blends in well with your gecko’s terrarium. A solid rock-like and colorless bowl would be an excellent choice for this setting.
6 Best Leopard Gecko Bowls
Now that we’ve learnt how to choose the best water and food bowls for leopard geckos let’s have a look at the best leopard gecko bowls in terms of aesthetics, suction, best value for money, corners, and more.
Exo Terra Reptile Water Dish
Exo Terra Water Dish, Water Bowl for Reptiles, X-Large, Flavorless, 1 pounds
$26.99 in stock
When it comes to providing your leopard gecko with a safe and functional water and food bowl, the Exo Terra Reptile Dish is the ultimate choice for leopard gecko parents.
With its rugged, rock-like appearance, neutral hue, and smooth appearance, this bowl seamlessly blends into any terrarium, creating a natural and harmonious environment for your docile reptile.
Not only is the Exo Terra Reptile Dish made with FDA-approved resin, but it also features a non-porous surface that prevents the growth of bacteria and makes cleaning a breeze.
This feature alone is a game-changer for reptile owners, who often struggle with keeping their pet’s bowls clean and hygienic. No more worrying about scrubbing away at pesky algae or bacteria build-up!
That’s not all. The bowl is not limited to geckos but is also suitable for many other reptile species, including tortoises, aquatic turtles, chameleons, lizards, and snakes.
Thanks to its safety steps, you can rest assured your pet won’t accidentally submerge and drown. And its sturdy construction ensures that even the weight of adult geckos won’t cause the bowl to tip over.
With that in mind, the Exo Terra Reptile Dish is a long-lasting and practical choice that will last you and your leopard gecko for years to come.
Winding up, the Exo Terra Reptile Dish is a must-have for any reptile owner looking to provide their pet with the best possible care.
So, if you’re in the market for the best water and food bowl for your leopard gecko, the Exo Terra Reptile Water Dish should be at the top of your list.
Pros
- Solid rock-like appearance makes it compatible with most terrariums
- Made with FDA-approved resin
- The non-porous coating prevents bacterial growth and makes cleaning effortless
- The safety steps prevent your gecko from accidentally drowning
Cons
- A bit pricier
Fluker’s Food/Reptile Corner Bowl
Flukers Fluker's Corner Rock Bowl, Food & Water Dish for Hermit Crabs, Medium 6"
The Fluker’s Reptile Corner Bowl is an excellent choice for gecko parents looking for a space-saving and durable bowl for their pets.
As a corner bowl, the bowl is designed to fit perfectly in the corner of any terrarium, saving valuable space while also providing a naturalistic look.
Better yet, made of durable, non-porous ceramic material, this food and water bowl is built to last.
The low profile of the bowl also means that reptiles won’t be able to tip it over. This means you won’t have to do much cleaning as there’s reduced mess-the substrate gecko won’t get spoiled quickly.
What’s more, not only is the Flucker’s Corner Bowl easy to clean, but it won’t absorb harmful bacteria thanks to its non-porous material.
On top of that, you’ll be comfortable knowing your gecko is eating from a clean and safe bowl.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable
- The unique corner design is stylish to blend seamlessly with the natural terrarium aesthetic
- Made of non-porous material to ensure your gecko feeds on a bacteria-free bowl
- Easy to clean on the inside
Cons
- It isn’t easy to clean on the outside due to the rough surface
Zoo Med Repti Rock Water Dish
Zoo Med Repti Rock - Reptile Food Dish Medium (7.25" Long x 5.9" Wide) - Pack of 2
$9.95 in stock
If you’re in the market for a reliable and durable food and water dish for your leopard gecko, look no further than the Zoo Med Reptila Rock Dish.
Manufactured with a smooth, hygienic, non-porous surface, this bowl is built to withstand the rigors of daily use.
Not only that. The Zoo Med Repti Dish is designed to prevent bacteria breeding which helps your little friend stay safe from diseases.
Indeed, the fact that the product is a fraction of the cost of most single food or water dishes makes it unbeatable in terms of good value for money.
But it’s not just the durability and affordability that makes the Zoo Med Reptile Corner Dish stand out.
The unique corner design of the bowl allows it to blend seamlessly with the natural aesthetic of most leopard gecko enclosures. Your pet gecko will surely enjoy an authentic and comfortable dining experience.
Furthermore, the Zoo Med Reptila Rock Dish comes in different sizes, making it suitable for a wide range of reptile species. However, we recommend opting for the medium size, as the small size may be too shallow to hold water for your leopard gecko.
So if you want to ensure your pet reptile has access to a clean, safe, and visually appealing meal and water dish, give the Zoo Med Reptile Reptila Rock Dish a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Pros
- The smooth, non-porous, non-pitted surface ensures it won’t absorb bacteria, guaranteeing your gecko’s safety.
- Affordable and durable
- Blends impeccably with natural terrarium aesthetic
- It comes in different sizes to suit your gecko’s need
Cons
- Some users have reported that the dishes are not entirely stable and may tip over when knocked by geckos
SLSON Gecko Feeder Acrylic Suction Cup
SLSON Gecko Feeder Ledge with 120 Pack 1 oz Plastic Bowls for Reptiles Food and Water Feeding
$16.99 in stock
If you’re looking for a versatile and convenient way to feed your leopard gecko, you can never go wrong with the Suction Cup Reptile Feeder.
Featuring a powerful suction cup, two slots for feeding, replacement plastics, and 20 food-grade replacement plastic dishes, the SLSON Gecko Feeder Acrylic Suction Cup is a must-have for gecko parents.
In addition, the SLSON Gecko Feeder Acrylic Suction Cup is crafted with robust food-grade plastic and is ideal for geckos and other small climbing reptile pets.
And the best part? The suction cap is unlike any other on the market as you can actually screw and lock it tightly in your desired position in the gecko’s terrarium, ensuring a firm hold. No more worries about your pet tipping it over.
To use it, simply wipe down the tank’s surface and attach the bowl by unscrewing the nut. Then attach the suction cup and tighten it to keep the feeder firmly in place.
However, it’s worth noting that the SLSON Gecko Feeder Suction Cup may wobble if a full-grown gecko stands on it while feeding. This means you’ll have to be extra keen. Otherwise, the bowl will break, especially if it tips over.
Pros
- The suction cup design makes it easy to attach to a smooth surface in the gecko’s enclosure
- Compatible with a variety of your gecko’s food
- The transparent acrylic material makes it easy to monitor food levels
- Cleaning is effortless
Cons
- The acrylic material may be prone to cracking if handled roughly
2 Piece Best Reptile Bowl Dish
2 Pieces Leaf Reptile Food Water Bowl Plate Dish for Tortoise Corn Snake Crawl Pet Drinking and Eating, 2 Sizes
For those enthusiastic about aesthetics, the 2 Piece Best Reptile Bowl Dish is an ideal choice that can add a modern look to their gecko’s terrarium.
Indeed Boao has created cute food and water bowls that magnificently combine functionality with aesthetics. You’ll understand why in a nutshell.
Regarding the versatility of use, this product is not a jack of all trades and a master of none. Whether you pet snakes, tortoises, bearded dragons, or leopard geckos, your reptile will have an orderly and neat dining environment in its enclosure.
Make sure to choose the right bowl size for your gecko, as juveniles may require smaller dishes. You don’t want to risk your lovely pet accidentally drowning in a large water bowl.
In addition, the 2Piece Best Reptile Bowl is constructed with high-quality plastic to ensure it doesn’t break easily. But don’t drop it unnecessarily, though it won’t be a big concern.
Moreover, the bowl is easy to clean and dry quickly, thanks to the smooth exterior and striped pattern.
For geckos that prefer dry food and vegetables, this product perfectly suits their needs.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable
- It comes in 2 sizes for adult and juvenile geckos
- Quality plastic without burrs or chirps providing clean dining for your gecko
- Cleaning is effortless
Cons
- Easy to tip over when stepped on
Helime Anti-Escape Gecko Ceramic Bowl
Reptile Food Bowl Dish - Worm Dish Reptile Water Bowl Lizard Gecko Ceramic Pet Bowls, Mealworms Dish for Bearded Dragon Chameleon Hermit Crab Dubia Cricket Dish Anti-Escape Mini Reptile Feeder XL(5in)
Leopard gecko food and water bowls are essential to keeping your lizard healthy and happy.
And selecting the best leopard gecko bowl for your little buddy can be challenging, especially since leos prefer eating live insects that are easy to escape. However, the Helime Anti-Escape Gecko Bowl got you covered.
Featuring a tucked-in rim, you can rest assured that nightcrawlers, mealworms, crickets, and other live insects can’t crawl out. Besides, the bowl is deep enough to ensure your pet doesn’t spill food or water out of the bowl as well as safeguard safety when feeding your lizard.
Made of high-quality, durable plastic, the Helime Anti-Escape Reptile Bowl is built to withstand the wear and tear of daily use. So, you have the best leopard gecko bowl to last you for years. Plus, the material is clean, and maintaining it is super easy.
In addition, you’ll get all you need from this reputable brand as the Helime Anti-Escape Reptile Bowl comes in various sizes to accommodate different-sized reptiles and their specific needs.
The compact design makes it ideal for small terrariums. The size of this specific bowl is 2.75 inches in diameter, which makes it perfect for leopard geckos
What’s more, the product has a sleek and modern design making it a great addition to any terrarium setup.
Pros
- Raised lip effectively prevents your gecko from pushing the contents out of the bowl
- Durable and easy to clean
- Comes in a variety of sizes to suit your pet’s needs
- Sleek and modern design
Cons
- Not for bigger feeders
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Leopard Gecko Bowl
When selecting a bowl for your leopard gecko, it’s important to consider the following factors.
Size
To facilitate your reptile with easy access to water and food, the size of the bowl is a key consideration.
Typically, your small scaled friend will require a much smaller bowl than what is generally used by common pets such as cats and dogs.
As desert-dwelling lizards, leos have a far higher water tolerance than their rainforest counterparts. Meaning you won’t need to provide your reptile with large bowls.
A good rule of thumb is to ensure the bowl is big enough for your leopard gecko to submerge its entire head while drinking. Keep in mind the size of your gecko. An adult gecko may require a bigger bowl compared to a juvenile.
Remember that every inch counts. So choose a bowl that fits the terrarium and is appropriate for your gecko’s needs.
Material
When it comes to choosing the impeccable bowl material for your leopard gecko, you should keep in mind to select one that’s durable and easy to clean.
As we all know, regularly cleaning the reptiles’ equipment is crucial to preventing the growth of harmful bacteria, so you’ll want to make the task as effortless as possible.
With that in mind, ceramic and plastic leopard gecko bowls can best offer a perfect balance of ease of cleaning, durability, and safety.
In addition, try seeking out bowls made from organic, chemical-free materials that not only keep your gecko safe but also add an eco-friendly touch to the enclosure.
In addition to the bowls looking great in the terrarium, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your adorable lizard has a safe and healthy environment.
Design
When choosing the ideal food and water bowl for your leopard gecko’s enclosure, aesthetics should not be underestimated.
The bowl should complement the overall look of the terrarium and be designed to mimic natural elements such as rocks or plants, making them more appealing to your pet.
Some bowls are designed to fit neatly into the corners of the tank, mimicking their natural hiding spot. This provides a sense of security and comfort for your docile creature as he can hardly tell whether he’s in the desert environment.
For leos that feed on mealworms, consider selecting a special worm dish specifically designed to keep them contained, as it will make it easy for your gecko to hunt and feed.
Don’t just settle for the ordinary. Choose a leopard gecko bowl which is a stylish addition to the tank. This will even provide more comfort to your gecko for the greater good between you and your reptile friend.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do Leos Drink Water?
Yes. Leopard geckos drink water to survive but not as often as other commonly housed pets, such as cats and dogs. Mostly geckos get water from their meals, such as insects and veggies. All in all, you’ll need to provide the best bowl for your lizard, which he can drink from.
Can I Give My Leopard Gecko Tap Water?
No. It’s not recommended to offer tap water to geckos and other pet reptiles as it may contain chlorine and other harmful chemicals that can endanger their life. Instead, use purified water. If you must use tap water, use water conditioners to remove the chemicals first.
Do all Reptiles Need Food and Water Bowls?
No. Not all reptile species require a bowl within their enclosure, as some have different eating habits. For instance, some lizard feast on insects such as fruit flies that can’t be contained in a bowl. Similarly, chameleons and anoles don’t drink from bowls at all.
What Size of Bowl is Appropriate for My Leopard Gecko?
The size of your leopard gecko bowl varies with the size of your pet. Generally, a food and water dish measuring 10mm tall and 55m wide would be perfect for adult leos. However, you may have to choose smaller bowls for Juveniles.
What Type of Bowl Should I Use to Provide Food and Water for My Leopard Gecko?
It’s recommended to use wide, shallow bowls for your leopard gecko when offering food and water. Additionally, the bowls should be made of non-porous materials such as ceramic or glass, as they are easy to clean and won’t retain bacteria.
Is It Okay If I Use One Bowl For Water And Food?
No. It’s preferable to use separate bowls for both water and food. This will give you an easier time keeping track of your leopard gecko’s food and water intake. And it’ll be safer for your pet as they won’t drink water with any food particles.
How Often Should I Clean My Gecko’s Bowl?
It’s recommended to clean the food and water bowls for your leopard gecko at least once a week or more often if necessary. Maintaining such sanitary conditions will keep your little buddy healthy by reducing the likelihood of bacterial growth in its food and water.
Can I use a water Bowl with a Water Filtration System?
Yes. You can use a water bowl with a water filtration system. It’s completely safe for your pet. The best part? It helps to provide your reptile with fresh and clean water at all times.
Why is My Gecko in the Water Bowl?
Your reptile may soak in the water bowl during shedding to loosen dry skin. Other possible reasons includes when the reptile wants to cool its body and when getting rid of parasites.