Should I feed during shed?

My Russian Rat hatchling is in the blue stage of his first shed with me. He has been hiding for days and we've left him alone while he does his thing. He still has his appetite though. He has eaten once for me since going blue, and is due to eat again in a couple of days.

My question - is there any reason we shouldn't feed him during this time? I've read the shedding process sticky for ball pythons and there was a mention of not feeding during shed so your animal didn't have to worry about digesting. Almost like giving them a break. But this could be particular to BPs.

Russian Rat Snakes are known for being consistent, eager, non-picky eaters. But is there a benefit to not feeding during shed? Or should I continue to feed as long as my little one still wants to eat?

Thanks!!

I see no reason not to feed your snake if he will take food in shed. Colubrids also have markedly higher metabolism than boid snakes. I would however only feed F/T or pre-killed on the off chance that your visually challenged pet might have issues.

I usually offer and let them decide whether or not to take it.

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Originally Posted by hilabeans

My Russian Rat hatchling is in the blue stage of his first shed with me. He has been hiding for days and we've left him alone while he does his thing. He still has his appetite though. He has eaten once for me since going blue, and is due to eat again in a couple of days.

My question - is there any reason we shouldn't feed him during this time? I've read the shedding process sticky for ball pythons and there was a mention of not feeding during shed so your animal didn't have to worry about digesting. Almost like giving them a break. But this could be particular to BPs.

Russian Rat Snakes are known for being consistent, eager, non-picky eaters. But is there a benefit to not feeding during shed? Or should I continue to feed as long as my little one still wants to eat?

Thanks!!

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Feed away. My ball eats during shed.


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i attempt to feed my snakes that are in shed along w/ my other snakes on feed night. i don't go outta my way to feed them if they are in shed and hiding. like i don't remove their hide or poke and prod them. i offer if they are out and about.

i don't have a Russian Rat but my Corn's and Milk's and King are hit and miss while in shed. sometimes they're in the mood to eat, sometimes their not. offer but don't bother them too much with it.

Works for me. Thanks y'all!