Feeding while shedding? (plus a tub question)

[ThyTempest]

To keep the tub secure, cage ties/locks work well, but a cheaper alternative is a nice bungie cord or just something heavy on top.

As for the probe placement, I am not sure on a stand alone tub. On most rack systems you place the probe directly on the flexwatt (the side that would touch the tub), but I don't think making a lump somewhere inbetween the tub and the UTH is a good idea, so maybe place it on the exterior side of the flexwatt. Placement does not matter a whole lot as long as the user accounts for it---ie , make sure you check the actual temp IN the tub.

Also, if you have the tub all set, I think you should move him now. humidity will keep up better, and you will have a lower risk for a bad shed. I don't think a driftwood peice or something rough is really necessary, but not a bad idea. I originally offered my bp a driftwood log in my attempts to keep her tub at least semi-natural looking, and have since abandoned it for the extra cleaning requirements. She does fine just rubbing on the aspen and the edges of her hides.

Now to the big question. Feeding. If you don't know whether or not your snake is an "I'll eat through the shed cycle" snake, then I would offer food. If they take it, great, do it again next time. If not, keep trying through a couple more shed cycle feedings and if she never takes, discontinue offering food you know she will refuse. This is just my rule of thumb and there is nothing wrong with always offering during shed or never offering during a shed, just my preference.

Edit: My ball python is already a picky eater, so I never offer food during shed anymore. Also, if the eyes are still really opaque, it may be best to wait until they clear to feed, or just wait until the next feeding day. Our boas will eat no matter what, our corns will not eat while their eyes are cloudy, and our bp just came off a fast that started in October.