Ball Python Feeding Guidelines

[Eric Alan]

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:

Ball Python Feeding Guidelines
Recommended Feeders	Ball Python Weight		When to Offer Food
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!