I have a breeding pair of Leopard geckos, they're each about 2 years old and the female's laid about 3 or 4 clutches (none of which I was ever able to incubate) in the past, and Memorial Day she laid one egg that I am incubating and it's doing well so far. However, after she laid the egg she continued to act restless and move about her cage, digging holes. When she laid eggs previously, she would calm right down after she was finished. But this time it took her a good 24 hours to stop pacing/digging, and I searched the cage for the other possible egg and I couldn't find it. She still looks a bit plump to me, is it possible she could be retaining an egg? And if so, should I see my vet or is there anything I can do? Thanks.

First I would like to apologize for not having answered your post sooner. Just discovered it a several days ago and have spent those days trying to find information. I hope your pet is better now.

Yes, gecko’s can retain eggs. They can also re-absorb eggs too This is known as egg binding or egg bound. The scientific name for this is dystocia. There are various causes for this, and in some situations the cause is unknown.

The most common cause is the lack of a suitable egg-laying site. The eggs need a moist area and if your gecko is unable to find a suitable location with which to lay her eggs she will try to delay or “retain” them until she can find a place. It is best to provide a laying box. The box will also make it easier to find and retrieve the eggs.

Other causes; any type of obstruction of the oviduct or cloaca, eggs too large, not enough calcium in the diet, eggs sticking together. And yes, it is a very good idea to take your gecko to a vet who has a vast knowledge in herpetology. Eggs can cause serious impaction resulting in death if not removed.

Please let us know how your gecko is doing and if you have been able to successfully hatch other eggs.