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Unfortunately Padme has passed. I checked in on her at 10:30 last night to give her meds and a treat. She was cold and not really wanting to move at all. After I gave her meds she snuggled into my arm and didn't want to move. I just held her for a while and gave Leia her treat and pet on her. When I gave Padme her treat she bit my finger trying to get to it. She didn't break skin but it didn't feel good either. That's when I decided to put her back but I could tell she was having a hard time eating it. Leia kept trying to take it from her but Padme wouldn't let her have it. She never really warmed up while I held her. I'm guessing her heart was starting to give out not pumping her blood fast enough to keep her warm. She likely passed shortly after that.
I cleaned the cage this morning so Leia could have a clean start. I've been checking on her more today and carrying her around when I can. I can tell she's lonely and I'm trying to do what I can for her.
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I am so sorry about Padme. Even when you expect it, the loss is still hard. When they go cold like that it is the end. You are right, it is probably the heart that is failing, that can't keep up the blood flow.
That was a kind thought to clean things out so Leia could have a fresh start. She is really going to need you now.
I hope you find comfort in each other and Leia can have some special times as an only rat.
RIP little Padme, join your friends across the Rainbow Bridge.
Catherine
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Leia has been very attached to me now that she's alone. When we put Fennec outside I go get her so she can have some social time. Between her and Popeye and the dogs my hands are full. The snakes are pretty easy going. They don't really require social attention just attention to keep them used to being handled. They have a pretty strict schedule which they know by heart. I'm having to create a social schedule for Leia now. She bonding with me so much more now. Before she liked me but more because I brought food.
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You do have it busy right now. I am glad Leia is looking to you for her social interaction. She is older too so it wouldn't make sense to try and bond her with a younger rat. It wouldn't be fair to the younger rat. It would be different if an older rat suddenly needed a home. That is what has happened with my guinea pigs. There seems to be a steady supply of guinea pigs needing a home.
Snakes are easy and they do get into habits. If you feed them regularly they will learn the signs that it is a feeding day. I find it works to feed all my snakes at once. Then if someone doesn't eat, it is easy to give one of the others an extra meal.
How is Popeye? Is there any improvement?
Catherine