What and when to feed to help transition?

[c_licious]

Hi

We're getting our new ball python this week and I need some advice on what to feed him. To ease with the transition to his new home and avoid any feeding problems, I would like to stick as close as possible to what he's used to from the breeder for the first few feedings.

The breeder had him on live rat pups (6 feedings). Unfortunately, I can only get frozen pups. The smallest size for live feeder rats any of the pet stores around here carry is "small" (2 sizes up). They do carry live large adult mice, which are the size equivalent to rat pups. I am wondering what would be better, try f/t pups or live mice? I have already tried craigslist and searching for reptile stores etc, unfortunately these are the only options I have for now.

Long term, I want to keep him on rats so I'm a bit reluctant to introduce mice to him. On the other hand I'm worried how he is going to take to f/t for his first time feeding in his new environment. I guess I could always try f/t pups first and if that fails go with live mice but I wanted to get a feel for how persistent I should be pushing one before offering the alternative and how difficult it might be to switch back later from one to the other.

Also, how many days would you recommend to let him settle in before attempting to feed for the first time? We're getting him 8 days after his last time feeding.

Thanks for the help!

[Eric Alan]

I'd go ahead and try the f/t pup for your first feeding attempt. Most BPs that size transition over to f/t pretty easily, IMO, so I wouldn't be surprised at all if he took it right away from you. Just make sure it's completely thawed and has a good heat signature on it when you offer it to him.

As far as when to offer, there are a few different schools of thought. Personally, I offer the day after I get them. Worst case scenario is that they refuse and I try again in a week. Best case is they take it and both of us are happy - them with a full belly and me with a good eater.

Good luck and enjoy your new addition!

[paulh]

Welcome to the ball-python.net forums!

Wait 3 to 7 days. Earlier can work, but I don't like to wait longer. Feed F/T. Pinkie ought to feel warm to the touch. Tear some skin off the top of the head to give a blood smell.

Good luck!

[DennisM]

I'd offer the ft rat pup. If the snake doesn't take it right away, leave it over night. Sometimes it takes a few hours for them to get it with the transition. Even if he refuses, I would continue to offer ft rat pup. Most make the transition pretty quickly.