Leopard Gecko Eating Oats

FrenzyMode

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My leopard gecko ate a huge chunk of oats after missing a meal worm in a dish. It was a bit wider than her throat, will she suffer from impaction?
 

katie_

Wonder Reptiles
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Why were the oats in the dish?
Impaction is possible, I would be keeping a close eye on her, and maybe give her a few warm baths.
 

DrCarrotTail

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Impaction usually comes form things that can't be digested doesn't it? I guess it's always possible but I would think she'd be able to digest the oats to some extent and get them out.
 

katie_

Wonder Reptiles
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Its not only non-digestable things. It can be a blockage of anything. Oats expand when they are wet. Thats not always a good thing.
 

FrenzyMode

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I think the Oat probably came from a meal worm holding onto it when I got it out of the fridge. I think I might give her a bath before I sleep. Any tips to giving them baths? Also, is it possible to see the piece of oat if it is stuck in her throat, or do you think the oat probably got into the stomach already?
 
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FrenzyMode

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We emailed someone and he said that the gecko should be fine: 1. Impaction is caused when it can't pass through the intestine. 2. A leopard gecko can eat something 10% larger than its head.
 
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SC Geckos

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Was it one oat or as you said "A huge chunk of oats". If it was one oat stuck to a mealworm I don't think it will be an issue. A mouth full may be another story. The oats do absorb moisture and expand but they also turn very soft and break down/fall apart pretty easy. (experience from eating oatmeal. lol!) I would keep an eye on her as stated above and make sure she stays well hydrated.
 

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