Spider BP Gone off feeding...

[zx92027xz]

how long should i wait before i try other options? its been 3 weeks (2 refused feedings) since the snake has eaten. im feeding live rats, just tossing them in a dark box (same as ive always done it... out of the cage.)

what are some other options that i could try?

[panthercz]

Try feeding in the ball pythons enclosure, no reason not to.

[starmom]

How old is the snake and long have you had it? Describing the enclosure and other husbandry issues would be helpful also. Have there been any changes AT ALL with the snake or the enclosure or ....? Some background would be helpful and you'd receive better replies.

[panthercz]

Some background would be helpful and you'd receive better replies.

Sorry I didn't feel like playing 20 questions...

[pythontricker]

or you could keep him in complete solitude. Don't hold him for one week and keep a blanket over his cage so he cant see any thing. Then when it's time to feed, keep the blanket over it. and make sure he cannot see any thing but the pray moving. Do this all in the cage that he stays in. It worked for me.

[zx92027xz]

thanks guys. the enclosure and all havent changed... its all on a thermostat an whatnot. ill put the prey in the enclosure and let you know how it goes...

whats the next step if that fails? how long to wait before i force feed?

[starmom]

Force feeding is only a very drastic last resort and ought not to be attempted by anyone who does not completely know what they are doing.
The reason why you were asked about the environment is because a snake going off feed is typically due to husbandry issues. Everything could be the same and the snake is only now manifesting the symptoms.
Sorry, I can't tell you 'what next' when I have no idea what has before. I think that feeding in the enclosure is an excellent idea- less stress on the snake. Maybe something that simple will make the difference

[darkbloodwyvern]

I had a female go off feed for seven months. It will be a LONGGG time before he needs force feeding. I think animals that are domesticated will occasionally fast themselves because we humans feed them enough food and then some. For some snakes, taking a break is OK. Some prefer to eat all year round, others like to fast for a few months. If they start losing weight rapidly they may have parasites or something, take them to a reliable vet if this is the case. try not to worry about it!