Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I apologize for the title, but I'm being serious, one of my females has been trying to defecate for a while now and doesn't seem to be able to pass it. I tried getting in to my vet, but his earliest appt is tomorrow and I don't want her to be uncomfortable for that long. I've seen people use their finger to help get slugs out. Should I try that? Any advice or techniques would be much appreciated!
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Scott

Try using a lubricant like mineral oit around the anal opening and with your finger, you may be able to work it out....gloves would be nice

Can you put her in the bath tub in water that is roughly 82 degrees, sometimes the swimming will help them pass it.

The thing that works the best for me is to do a complete cage cleaning LOL... Not trying to make light of your situation but seriously try this.

After she has passed this poo you need to find out why she is struggling to poop....To much food...to large of prey....dehydration etc etc....there could be several more factors but if she is truly stuggling then something is not right.
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Joel Thomas

Don't tread on me!

Thanks, I'll start with the warm bath and go on to the mineral oil if that doesn't work. Prey hasn't been too big, and she has refused her last couple of meals. In fact I just tried a smaller sized rat yesterday and she wouldn't take it. Still plan on taking her in tomorrow regardless if she passes or not.
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Scott

Good luck Scott, definately a good idea to take her in regardless....hope everything comes out all right
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Joel Thomas

Don't tread on me!

Thanks Joel,

Was actually able to massage out a little piece that was prairie-dogging before putting her in the water. It looked like there was a little bedding caught in there. Maybe that is what was bothering her. I plan on cleaning the cage while she's bathing and then putting down newspaper, at least for the next couple BMs. Thanks Again!
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Scott