As the vet showed Cassandra the ultrasound images, she struggled to make sense of what she was seeing. Reggie’s stomach appeared completely empty, leaving her more confused than ever about what could be wrong. Dr. Hanson then asked if Reggie usually stretched out along her body and curled up around her while she was in bed. Cassandra nodded. “Yes, that’s exactly what he does.”
The vet explained, “Reggie’s empty stomach is unusual for a python his size. What I suspect is that he’s been getting ready for a big meal, which explains why he hasn’t been eating lately.” He went on to remind her that snakes can swallow prey much larger than their own heads thanks to their incredible ability to unhinge their jaws.
Cassandra was stunned. “But what could he possibly be preparing to eat? I’ve tried feeding him all kinds of food, and he’s refused everything,” she said, her voice trembling with worry. Dr. Hanson hesitated for a moment, then looked up at the enormous python before meeting Cassandra’s gaze. His tone was serious, tinged with concern.
“Ms. Turner,” he said carefully, “I believe Reggie has been sizing you up as his next meal.”
By stretching out alongside her at night, the python had been measuring her size—essentially rehearsing how to take down his next big prey. He had been patiently waiting for the right moment to strike.
Cassandra’s heart dropped, and she struggled to process what she’d just heard. “That can’t be true! Reggie would never hurt me. We share a special bond—he’s my companion, my friend!” she insisted, her voice shaking.
Dr. Hanson sighed gently. “I understand how close you feel to him, but remember, Reggie is still a wild animal with powerful instincts. For your own safety, I strongly recommend you rethink sleeping with him and take this warning seriously.”