tube feeding liquids versus using a syringe.

[doria]

i have a small 1cc syringe that the vet gave me to administer antibiotics. can i use this to give my RTB liquids? or should i tube feed her the liquids. if so how do i do it?
[addsig]

[eddie]

Is she drinking on her own?
If so, then don't do either.
If not, then a tube will get more in her easier than just a syringe.

What kind of liquids? water or a pedialyte mix? vitamin mix?

[addsig]

[Ravnos]

As a general rule, when giving oral medication to snakes - tubing is preferred. It gets more of the medication down into where it can be absorbed quicker... but honestly, I have never seen oral antibiotics do much good in snakes. If you can do injections, that would be much more effective.

I've found tubing is just easier to administer hydrating liquids as well... its just easier to control the animal and get the maximum benefit. If the tube is properly lubricated before insertion, and you're careful to avoid sticking it in the glottis - there is really no harm done to the animal besides the obvious stress of having something shoved in their face.

I agree with eddie though, make sure its necessary before doing it... theres no point in administering liquids unless she is actually dehydrated and soaking has done no good.

Rav
[addsig]

I also agree with what Eddie has said here. Why stress your snake any further by doing such if it is not 100% neccessary ? If the snake gets more stressed it also could get sicker too. Something you would not want to see happening with the snake at all.
[addsig]

[Constrictor_BO]

Ditto... Sometimes we all jump the gun and start worrying when we shouldnt. Are you sure this isnt one of those times? Why put undue stress on the snake if it is drinking on it's own. Give us some more info on what is going on with your snake and why you think you need to give it liquids and lets see if we cant help straighten it out.
[addsig]