Senior Leo

Question
I have a male leo, that is at least 9 years old (i purchased him as an adult with a regenerated tail, so he could be even older). I've noticed he is loosing weight (about 4 months now), and is starting to look a little dehydrated. He's eating habits are still good, stool looks fine. He's placed with a female which is in perfect health (been together probably 6-7 years). I'm just wondering what the normal signs of an aging leo would be, and if there is any extra care or changes to the diet needed as they age. I'm not sure if there is a problem here or if it is just old age. Going to do more regular baths and thinking about adding pedialite to water? Sound like a good thing to do?

Answer
Hi Anne-Marie,
Leos have a long life span...18-20 years and even longer with some of them.  That puts your guy about middle age.
With your insects that you feed, are you gut loading them with a good diet?  The gel stuff isn't a gut load..its basically water for them.  To gut load, you want to use veggies, greens, grains, sugar free cereals or special meals for the insects. These are generally a grain/powder form.
When the insects are not well fed for at least 48 hrs prior to feeding to the leos, there isn't the needed nutrition and can loose weight over time. You can offer your leo a few wax worms on occasion...they are too high in fat content to be used more than as a treat.
Its fine to add some Gatoraide or Pedilyte to the water..just be sure to change it daily or more if needed.  Try offering some of the "mix" from an eye dropper.
There really isn't any special changes that need to be made as they age.  Of course making sure they don't get too heavy is important, as it is with any aged leo.