In young animals, it may be necessary to use a magnifying glass to count the pre-anal pores. Fat-tailed geckos are generally sexually mature at 12 months, although if fed heavily some animals may be ready at 8 months. Because males will fight aggressively, they shouldn't be housed together. Fat-tailed geckos can be bred in pairs or in a group breeding situation. In a sweater box rack system, one male and four females can be housed comfortably The pair or group can be housed together year-round, but separate any animals that are not gaining sufficient weight.
Many breeders routinely separate the male from the females after the breeding season.
Prior to this period, the geckos should be kept at normal temperatures but not fed for two weeks, so they may clear the contents of their intestinal tracts. For four to six weeks, keep the geckos in temperatures ranging from 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the night and up to 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Do not feed them during this time. After this brumation period, warm the animals slowly over the course of a few days. After several days at normal temperatures, begin offering food.