Feeding Question

[ErikH]

I have had Monty since September, he was approximately 6 months old (or so I was told anyway, I bought him at a pet store), and since that time I have been feeding him the same size mice--fuzzies. He seems to be thriving and has shed twice since I have had him, and hasn't refused a meal since the initial settling in period.

My question is, should I be feeding him larger mice by now? His girth is about the same as the fuzzies (they are kind of big for fuzzies, I think). I tried offering a second one two weeks ago, which he refused. He is approximately 17" long, and is probably around 1" at his widest, although I have never measured his girth.

Sorry if this got a little long-winded.

[Smulkin]

IF the prey item is the same girth as the thickest part of your BP you are fine.

[elevatethis]

Absolutely step up the prey size now. I had a 6 month old bp that was eating small rats. Go ahead and offer him an adult mouse, and see what happens. I bet you'll be suprised how easy he gets it down!

[denisthemenace]

very true .. last night i went mouse shopping, i was tying to get a hopper because i was told by the breeder that thats what they were feeding her. Using my common sence i decided to go with a small mouse. I figured that the fur is making the mouse look thicker than it really is. Eve is only 3/4 months old shes about 13" or so. She took that mouse down with ease.. try to full size mouse the worse that could happen is she will kill the mouse and not eat her.

[ErikH]

Looks like I should measure him and go from there. Thanks!

[tigerlily]

Usually only hatchlings take fuzzy mice. After a month or two, they are up to adult mice no problem. Not those retired breeders, but a small adult mouse should be fine.

[ErikH]

Will do. I will get a fresh supply on Sunday (feeding day isn't until Wednesday)


Thanks!

[ErikH]

Just an update:



He took the adult mouse (f/t) this evening without any trouble, although it did take a little longer to swallow!