Removing shed skin from toes

[Sarge USMC]

What can I do here. Is there a way to soften this skin so it can be removed easily? The gecko isn't going to sit still for this obviously, and I spent about 10 minutes monkeying around with it and only got 1 toe done.

 

[DrCarrotTail]

If the gecko is young they are super squirmy and quick so you'll have your work cut out for you. If the shed is really built up I would recommend finding a vet to help you. If its just a couple toes I would try simply soaking her in warm water for 5-10 minutes each night for a few days. Don't make it too deep - just enough to cover her feet and the bottom of her belly - definitely not over her back.This may help her get the shed off herself. If the shed is still there after a few days of doing this I would try to help her out with a q-tip or rubbing her feet gently in between your thumb and forefinger right after a soak. Also provide a moist hide in her tank. Then she can sit in it 24/7 as she needs and it may eliminate shedding issues in the future.

 

[B&B Geckos]

For stubborn shed on the toes I soak for 20-30 minutes, a second time if needed. Then, I use vegetable oil or mineral oil on a q tip in a rolling motion and finish with tweezers. If your worried about hurting the gecko with sharp tweezers, order the blunt, rounded stamp tweezers. Initially the gecko will react to every rub or roll of the q tip, eventually it becomes somewhat disensitized. Be patient.

 

[Islan]

I have the same problem with my AFT, I find they don't want to sit still in the warm water and it is a struggle to keep them in there to soak their feet. What about the Shed ease remedies you can find at the store?

 

[B&B Geckos]

I have the same problem with my AFT, I find they don't want to sit still in the warm water and it is a struggle to keep them in there to soak their feet. What about the Shed ease remedies you can find at the store?

Use a shoe size tub with lid, place a folded paper towel in it, add enough warm water to cover feet (use temp gun). It'll have no choice but to soak.

 

[DrCarrotTail]

What B&B describes is how I soak my geckos. I make sure the water is 85-95 degrees with a temp gun and trap them in a small box. Every 10 minutes or so I check the temperature and get it back into 85-95 range if they need a longer soak as my house is about 65 degrees and I know how much I would hate a cold bath!