how to force-feed a baby gecko?

[teenygek]

Hi,
I have a very small (1g - about three inches long from nose to end of tail) house gecko with MBD. The vet prescribed calcium glubionate, Pedialyte, and Fluker's Repta-Aid. However, I'm having problems getting the gecko to take anything. Once in a while he'll lick a droplet of Pedialyte off his nose, but he gets visibly upset when I try to put the tiny plastic syringe in his mouth - he shakes his head and tries to back up. I don't want to stress him out any more than necessary, and I'm afraid of choking him. I'm also afraid of crushing him if I try to hold him in place. However, he can't walk or catch live food on his own right now.

Do you guys have any tips on how to get food into him? Am I doing anything wrong? Can I do anything differently?

Thanks!

 

[Mel&Keith]

I would call the vet and tell about the trouble you're having. I would be really worried about trying to force feed anything that tiny for fear that it would aspirate.

 

[acpart]

I agree with calling the vet. However, your best bet is the dropping on the nose method. I'd suggest gently wrapping the gecko in small small, soft cloth so only the front part sticks out and then dripping stuff on the nose.

ALiza

 

[pogo and apophis]

what im having to do to force feed my leo is my fiance will hold him and run a wet q-tip along the side of his mouth so that he opens it out of frustration and then i put part of a meal worm in his mouth. not the whole thing so he chokes but enough that he is holding it himself and normally he'll start eating it. it takes time but thats the only way i got mine to eat. he wouldnt even lick stuff off his nose