Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi again!

I recently posted about a pair of adult Emmys I traded for that were in semi-rough shape (Up For The Challenge). I know the female had a regurge "situation" over a year ago but both had suprisingly good body weight on them despite being kept in what I would characterize as less than optimum conditions.

I fed them both small rat pups last Friday and no regurges as of yet. Is there a point in the digestive process when one can most usually expect a regurge to occur? Conversely, is there a point of time when I can tone down the "regurge watch" and lessen my anxiety?

Bill

When I first got my ETB nearly three years ago, this forum was ablaze with posts on the subject of regurg syndrome. So although my yearling was reported to be CBB, I nervously awaited her to throw up for days after every feeding. She never did and 100 rats later, I now only concern myself with not overfeeding and following "the rule" of no more than 3 meals without a B.M.
To some extent Bill, you will set the anxiety threshold. Thoughts and beliefs abound on the subject but there isn't a lot of real data. But from the experience of skilled others who have watched animals waste away, I sincerely hope you will not have to go through that. I'd keep the food item size small, feed sparingly and keep the animals hydrated. Good luck to you and thank you for sharing your experinces.
Bill

Thanks Bill!

You're right, I most certainly will set my anxiety threshold! Thats why I'm out of town on biz 'till Friday! LOL. I guess my question is more like: "how many days after eating can one be somewhat secure its not comig back up"? I know this is a loaded question but I was wondering if there were experiences along the lines of 5 days, 6 days, 7 days etc. Or,conversely, do regurges most often occur after day 1, 3, 5, etc.?

Bill

I can't positively say for ETB's since they do have that notoriously slower metabolism, but for most other snakes regurges tend to happen within 3 days. I would assume the same to be true with ETBs or would only extend that to the 5th day.

With the problem animals we had in the past, regurge occured between 1-5 days. A sign to look for that will indicate an animal may have continual problems is undigested bone in the stool. This is a tell tale sign that there is a digestive issue which may or may not respond to probiotics.

Craig

I'm happy to report both held their first meals down no problem! The female ate an adult mouse the next week w/no adverse results!

I'm going to feed hem sparingly w/in advised parameters and will not get overeager! I have an awsome 100% acrylic cage I want to move them into but I'm going to wait so as to not throw another "adjustment" into the mix. So far, so good! Thanks to all that replied both here and in private emails!

Bill