Ball Python Feeding Guidelines
As much as this topic comes up, I'm sure this ball python feeding chart will prove itself useful. Enjoy!
Find the appropriate prey item and feeding schedule for your snake:
https://ball-pythons.net/forums/cach...%2F98qfzDH.png
Ball Python Feeding Guidelines |
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Recommended Feeders |
Ball Python Weight |
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When to Offer Food |
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Quantity, Type, and Size |
Male |
Female |
Breeders |
Pets Only |
1x Hopper Mouse (8-11 grams) |
First 3-5 Meals |
First 3-5 Meals |
Every 3-4 Days |
Every 7 Days |
1x Rat Fuzzy (10-19 grams) or
1x Small Mouse (12-17 grams) |
Up to 200 grams |
Up to 200 grams |
Every 3-4 Days |
Every 7 Days |
1x Rat Pup (20-29 grams) or
1x Adult Mouse (18-32 grams) |
200-350 grams |
200-350 grams |
Every 5-7 Days |
Every 7 Days |
1x Weaned Rat (30-49 grams) or
1x Jumbo Mouse (33-50 grams) |
350-500 grams |
350-500 grams |
Every 5-7 Days |
Every 7 Days |
1x Small Rat (50-89 grams) or
2-3 Mice (depending on size) |
Over 500 grams |
500-1000 grams |
Every 7 Days |
Every 7 Days |
1x Medium Rat (90-179 grams) or
3-5 Mice (depending on size) |
Not necessary for typical adult males |
Over 1000 grams |
Every 7 Days |
Every 7 Days |
1x Large Rat (180+ grams) |
Not necessary for typical adult males |
Not necessary for typical adult females |
N/A |
N/A |
Ball pythons are primarily rodent eaters - most commonly rats or mice. They can eat either live prey or frozen rodents that have been thawed and warmed up. Beyond the first few meals after hatching, I feed exclusively rats to my ball python collection. They provide optimal nutrition and are a convenient option for both keepers and reptiles alike. One appropriately sized rat per feeding is good for both a hatchling and an adult ball python. Even with the above advice, it is important to keep in mind that there is no one right way to feed a ball python.
Find what works for both you and your snakes and stick to it!
Re: Ball Python Feeding Guidelines
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Lizardlicks
I like that is has a different feeding schedule for if you're raising your snake as a breeder or a pet. Very useful!
Thanks!
My logic is to take advantage of a little one's increased metabolism while they are young and tend to be bottomless pits and then back off as they reach maturity in tune with their natural tendency to do so themselves. Generally speaking, though, ball pythons will do well on a once/week schedule throughout their lifetime (that is also easy for a keeper to remember what day feeding day is), which is why I kept that part in there.
Re: Ball Python Feeding Guidelines
Great job Eric! :gj:
I would totally print (and possibly pastlify) that and send it with any snake I'd sell.
Considering the amount of times this question comes up, I think this chart might be Sticky worthy, but let's see what the rest of the community thinks ;)
Re: Ball Python Feeding Guidelines
Definitely sticky worth!
Great post and thank you for the info...
Re: Ball Python Feeding Guidelines
Re: Ball Python Feeding Guidelines
This so useful! Thanks Eric :)
Re: Ball Python Feeding Guidelines
This is exactly what I've been looking for, THANK YOU :gj:
I like how simple you've made it. That being said, I'm sure everyone has an opinion but this seems to be a simple comprehensive approach to feeding mice or rats to our beloved balls.
Most importantly is the title you've given the chart "Feeding Guideline" to hopefully avoid conflicts.
NICELY DONE - if it's deemed not sticky worthy here, I hope you're satisfied I found it laminate worthy. :D
Re: Ball Python Feeding Guidelines
This is by far great and valuable information and I totally agree that it should be sticky worthy. Thank you for the information kind Sir!