Leo Update

[SerpentLust]

In regards to my previous post about the Leopard Gecko
http://www.ssnakess.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=22438

Here is an update...

I have a new problem. He's refusing food now. I can't bring a fecal to the Animal Hospital if he's not making any...I called the Animal Hospital and told them the situation and talked to them about the gecko. They said they definately need that fecal and wondered if I would try making a mush out of some of his food and force feed it to him just to get some poop...

Is this wise?

Main point is, I need the fecal so that I can get him checked out. Problem is, he's not making with the poopies.

In good news, I can definately afford the whole Animal Hospital thing. The fecal exam is reletively cheap. And even when he has to be brought in, that's pretty cheap too. So I'm happy about that. These people are the only people in this city who do exotics, so I pray they're actually good. lol

Jenn

[Alicewave]

Yes that is wise. Couple things you can try: In a blender mix vanilla ensure, mealworms, waxworms etc, some calcium, etc, strain, then syringe feed. Or you can try enteral insectivore available from www.herpnutrition.com. Or you can try jumpstart, available at www.herpsupplies.com. All three are going to give you kinda messy poops though, but it's worth a shot.

[Colonel SB]

You may even get lucky and not have to force feed him it you put a drop in his nose most times they will lick it off...I'd try that or a vairation of that before you put a syringe in his mouth. Keep us updated.

[drewlowe]

yes you can try all of the above or some chicken baby food.

Alicewave i tried to call herpnutrition 2 times to order that stuff left messages both times and they never called back also tried to fax it to them and the number didnt' work. How do you order yours through them??? I don't feel secure about emailing them my credit card #.

[SerpentLust]

How do you force feed a leopard gecko though?

Jenn

[Siretsap]

I force feed mine with a seringe. I basically only have to hold them and they will open their mouth when they fight to get away, I insert the seringe in it's mouth and start feeding

[Alicewave]

That sucks Drew. I haven't had to order in a while. Try mailing in the order form or email your request. If that doesn't work maybe have your vet try to order from her. I understand feeling odd about emailing a CC# maybe just email your order but ask what the shipping charge will be and if she emails you back then give her the number. Maybe she is having a problem with her fax or her voicemail or something. Sorry you are having problems. :( I do recall having to be persistent one time that I ordered from her. Keep trying. She's trustworthy but I wouldn't give her your CC# until you hear something back. She usually doesn't answer her phone. I remember one time I left a long message and eventually she picked it up and talked to me. She is a vet after all, they are busy folks. :)

[Samba]

I e-mailed them, and even though they didn't verify the order before shipping, I got it within 2 weeks or so. I didn't have to give them my credit card number... they sent me an invoice.

Assist-Feeding Instructions - (You should not attempt this without having the vet direct you)...

1.) You must obtain a syringe that is of appropriate size for you leo. Your vet can help you with this. Once selected, you need to fill it with something that is good for him, and will be easily passed through the GI tract.

2.) Several recommendations are baby food, crushed insects, and Meg's, (Alicewave), idea is a good one too!

3.) Load the syringe... the vet should tell you how much to feed your leo... I usually give adults somewhere around 1 to 1 1/2 Table Spoons, and young leos, maybe a 1/4 TS at a feeding.

4.) You want to position your leo somewhere comfortable... like on your left knee... (if you are right-handed). Place your left hand over the leo... using your pinky finger and palm to prevent the leo from backing up. Your forefinger and thumb should be at the leo's face and neck, preventing it from moving. You should not alarm your animal by squeezing it, rather be gentle, and most leos will feel rather comfortable in the warmth of your hands.

5.) Here's the tricky part... GENTLY use your forefinger and middle finger to steady the leo's head. Use your left thumb and forefinger to slowly and carefully apply downwards pressure on the leo's 'lips.' DO NOT insert a fingernail or any other object into the leo's mouth to try and open it, as this may damage their gums and teeth. When the leo has opened its mouth, place the syringe close, but not into its mouth and squeeze a little food into the mouth. Allow the leo to relax and swallow the food before approaching again. Take your time, and don't get frustrated if the leo thrashes or seems disinterested. If this is the only way to get it to eat you must do what needs to be done.

As stated above, you should probably print out these directions and take them to your vet so he can show you how to assist-feed your leo. It doesn't appear that your leo needs 'Force-Feeding,' which is an entirely different thing altogether. I hope this has helped you... please keep us updated!