What is the longest amount of time that a baby ball python could need assist feeding?

[Kindred526]

Lots of posts talk about how long to wait before beginning to assist feed, but I'm wondering what is the longest that you've heard of, or experienced, a baby needing to be assist fed/refusing to eat on its own. I have 2 baby's that were born in November who are still not eating on their own. One person told me that sometimes they never eat on their own. Is this true?

[Ericballardo]

How often do u feed?

[Kindred526]

every 5-7 days. They are not handled besides feeding, they are in tubs with the temps proper and consistent, and they have been offered live mice and rats. Not looking for too much advice on the assist feeding itself. Looking for how long you have heard or experienced a hatchling needing assist fed for?

[Ericballardo]

Normally a couple feedings. Worst I've seen is tell 200 grams but what I was thinking is u might be feeding them to well. What's there weight at? Maybe try 9 days if they have some weight behind them

[Kindred526]

Ah I see. I'm still trying to get them to gain a little weight, but when they do I will definitely try moving them to 7-9 day schedule!

[Ericballardo]

Ya that's what I was thinking I was told the hardest thing about ball pythons is the patience they call for. That's the part that sucks for me.

[Ericballardo]

Someone else on here might have some secrets in this area

[Sunnieskys]

You need Deborah. She is the genius that will help! She is the snake whisperer lol

[Craiga 01453]

Assist feeding should be an absolute last resort. It should only be done when absolutely all options have run dry. First and foremost, husbandry should be spot on. Second, all feeding methods and prey types should be tried. Lastly, live prey should be offered. Assist feeding should only occur when/if all other options have been exhausted and the animal is losing weight and is at the point where their health is a concern.

[asplundii]

I had an animal that I had to assist feed for 14 months. And then one day she just decided to start eating on her own and turned into a glutton, went from 200g to 1500g in a year