BP with RI feeding question..

[xhunniebearx]

Some of you may have read my other post about Zeke. I recently found out that he has an RI, so we went to the vet and got antibiotics for him. He hasn't eaten for about two months because of the RI, and I was wondering is there are any tricks to getting him to eat. Would braining the rat work? Or should I wait until we're done giving him all of his shots? Also, when we try to feed him and he doesn't eat, is it okay to re-freeze the rat, or should I throw it away everytime?

Any advice is appreciated..
-Rachel

[Entropy]

Wait until he's at least not showing signs. I recently posted about 'Cheese' a BP that I picked up that had an RI. He just ate a mouse on Friday but then again he's done with his shots and had showed interest in food (I scented the Q-room with a mouse).

[xhunniebearx]

I think we've only got one shot lefton tuesday, so do you think he'll be interested by then? I just tried to feed him today but he wouldnt take it. Do you think I'll need to go back the vet?

[rabernet]

Wait until at least a week after his last treatment and don't handle him during that time, then try after that week.

[xhunniebearx]

OK. Thank you! What about the rat? Is it okay to re-freeze them if they don't eat as long as I don't do it more than once or twice?

[rabernet]

I "personally" wouldn't refreeze it, just as I don't refreeze meat that we eat. I would say if it was defrosted longer than an hour to toss it.

[xhunniebearx]

Ok, thank you!