Posted by EllenC on May 12, 2003 at 14:51:59:
In Reply to: Force feeding tigers? posted by Turtasal on May 12, 2003 at 10:07:23:
You can assist-feed. This involves putting the food item in the mouth but allowing normal swallowing. I have done this with weak metamorphs. Their tongues may still be remodeling inhibiting normal feeding for a while longer.
My method is: wash and rinse a thin plastic card (like an ID card) very thoroughly. Have the food item close by (a piece of an earthworm, a glob of frozen bloodworms). Hold the animal right side up as they have a strong "righting-reflex". Work the card between the jaws. Lever the card down against the tongue to stimulate mouth opening. Slide in the food. Put the animal down to allow swallowing. Some people us a small plastic spoon. This is easier with a partner who slides in the food, but I have done it myself.
