Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My four-year-old Okeete has not eaten since April 1st, and had trouble shedding last time. He also twitches and moves in a jerky fashion sometimes. He still is active, and likes to be held, and enjoys investigating things. His body seems to be bloated. He drinks water OK. Any ideas? Elly

Is it his way of asking you to take him to a vet?

Well the not eating and twitching/jerking is classic mating behaviour for an adult male at this time of year.

I've never known that to be directly related to a bad shed, so next time he goes blue, pop a damp hide in with him and see if this helps.

It's the bloating bit that worries me. I can't relate that to the other symptoms you've described. As he hasn't eaten in a couple of months it's unlikely to be constipation (anyone?). That part would make a trip to a reptile vet worthwhile.

Unless, of course, there's any possibility that your "he" is a "she" who might have been in contact with a male at some point since last summer. In which case, the not eating & bloating might actually be "getting ready to lay eggs". A trip to a reptile-savvy vet would confirm.

I know that Cornelius is a male, as I got him as a baby. I keep him damp before he sheds, but I still had to help him with a warm bath. I will try to find a vet, though I don't know of any closer than Colorado Springs. Thanks.