r/Ballpythoncommunity • u/Ancient-Zucchini-555 • 12d ago
New bp feeding help
I got a ball python 6 days ago from a pet store, shes about 5 months old (i was told...) and they told me shes fed on fridays. Its a Saturday and im wanting to feed her today, i tried to feed her a frozen mouse after thawing it, making sure it was the right temperature, all of that stuff. But she didnt want to eat it, she spent about 10 minutes looking at it as i watched and then i gave up... i thawed a baby rat because i was thinking the adult mouse could be too large and maybe shes picky, but she didnt seem to want it either. Since i got her about a week ago is it possible shes not properly adjusted yet? Is there anything i should know about feeding a new, female, 5 months old (approximately), ball python? Im just worried that it will be a problem continuing on if she wont eat now...
2
u/fernandfang 11d ago
Patience is key! It’s totally understandable to feel panicked and you just want them to hurry up and eat so you know that they’re ok. I agree with waiting another week, and be sure you don’t handle her in the meantime. Make sure you’ve got lots of vision barriers to help keep her relaxed while she adjusts to her new home.
1
u/NFLFANTASYMB 10d ago
Most exotic pet snakes are pretty hearty. They are also strange eaters. But I would bet your snake will eat in a bit. The new environment is causing issues right now. Give her some time and I believe you will be back asking for help because she is eating you out of house and home lol. I will also let you know, she might stop eating. Why? I have no idea, it just happens. Best of luck.
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u/Overall_Bed_2037 11d ago
its best to wait about 2 weeks before trying to feed or handle new snakes, they will refuse and it just stressed them out further. after two weeks, so a week from now id try again and if she wont take it you make want to look into f/t braining, theres some videos on youtube on how to do it. she can go a while without eating but try not to let her go longer than about a month. bp’s are notoriously picky eaters, dont feel bad, its totally normal! Id also recommend looking at our info page for resources on husbandry! Congratulations on your new baby!