Could changing substrate cause my BP to refuse food?

[Brstin2flames]

I recently changed from using ReptiBark to using paper towels. When I used to use the reptibark my BP would usually be on the warm side, occasionally on the cool side. Since I've switched he seems to be moving back and forth a lot, also moving his hides around and pushing them up with his body while in them. This is a new behavior for him.

I fed last week and it took much longer than normal for him to strike and take the f/t mouse. Then 7 days later I tried to feed him and he wont take the mouse at all. I gave him plenty of time, even tried turning the lights off and leaving him alone.

Could the switch to paper towels be stressing him out and causing him not to want to eat? Should I switch back to the bark? Any input is much appreciated!

[mykee]

Quick answer: Yes.
ANY change in your ball pythons environment can be stressful enough to make your BP refuse food.

[Brstin2flames]

Should I switch back to the bark? Or just give him time? He's been on paper towels for about 2 weeks.

[BallBeardedPyDragon]

i would say it depends on the substrate. I dont recommend any sort of sand for snakes because it is easily swallowed and not easily passed. However, paper towels should not be an issue. That being said, i do agree with the other posts that any change in the environment can cause stress

[DmD]

Happened to me as well Just put him/her back on it's old substrate and give it a day or two to settle down.

[JLC]

I guess it would depend on your reasons for switching to paper towels as to whether or not you should switch back. You certainly don't HAVE to switch back. The snake might have refused that one meal for any number of reasons. Personally, I think it's premature to start fiddling more with the environment. If you really like the paper towels, then just wait him out. He'll get used to it.

One thing to keep in mind though...is you may be seeing some slightly different behavior patterns because the change in substrate also changes the way the environment FEELS. If you use a UTH, for instance...reptibark is a much more insulated bedding than a couple sheets of paper towels...so the warm spot may feel a lot warmer to him than before. The air may feel dryer as well. I'd make sure you've still got your temps and humidity dialed in properly before doing any other tweaking at this point.

And one thing to always keep in mind....these little beasties are always a lesson in patience! Impulsive reaction to every odd movement or missed meal can often cause more issues than they solve.

[Brstin2flames]

Thanks JLC!

I switched to paper towels because its so much easier to spot poops and pee on them and way easier to clean. So if I can, I'd like to stick with the paper towels now!

Since switching to paper towels I've made sure that the temps and humidity are the same as before the switch (hot side 90*, cool side 80-82* and humidity is 50%). Thermometers are in the same place as well. I have the probe between the glass and the substrate, so its probably that even though the temps are reading the same, he's feeling warmer temps because (obviously) the paper towels are thinner than the layer of bark.

I'm going to leave everything as is and let him get used to it. Would you suggest that if the problem continues after a while that I try lowering the temps?

Thanks so much for the advice.