Lethargic Crested Gecko

Question
I have 2 crested geckos kept in a glass vivarium. The older of the two has recently become very lethargic and has gone off his food. In addition to this he seems to have lost some of the grip on his feet and no longer wants to climb. He has now taken to lying on the bottom of the cage and shows little interest even if a cricket is placed in front of him.

The enclosure is kept in a warm room and he has a lamp for night time heat. Their diet has always been alternated between baby food and live crickets that have been gut-loaded. Baby food is regularily supplemented as well. I should also say that he is around 2 and a half years old and mid-shed (however he has been trying to shed for around 3 days now).

I am unsure what else to do for him and was wondering if you had any suggestions or should I expect the worse?

Thanks

Phil

Answer
HI Phil, I have a couple suggestions that I hope may help. I think you may have a sub-optimal humidity level which is common this time of year and it may be exacerbated by the additional heat you are providing.
Low humidity is the most common cause of shedding difficulties. When it happens to arboreal geckos, the delicate structures on the toes that allow them to climb are also affected resulting in the loss of grip. I have found over the years that this situation really stresses them. I would start by soaking him is some tepid water for around 2o minutes. That should soften the old skin enough for you to assist with removal. You may need to use tweezers to very, very gently pull the old skin off his feet. You may need to repeat the soaking the following day as well.
I would also check the temperature in the enclosure, it may be a bit too warm which is also a real stress inducer for cresties. You need to keep it below 80F, something in the low to mid 70'sF is fine. Unless the room drops into the low 60's at night you really should not need a night time heat source. A temperature drop at night is normal, as long as it does not go below 65F.
Cresteds need a fairly high humidity level, you  should be misting the cage at least a couple times a day but three might be needed during these dry winter months. Good luck.