I see...I have to admit I did the same thing. Got my little guy from petsmart about a month ago. He was there for almost 3 months before I got him and the whole time they were feeding him pinkies when he can easily take hoppers. He wasn't eating well for them and was skinny. Since I've had him he has eaten every time I offer food and is gaining weight. Othe than that I didn't have a bad experience, but next time I'll go with a breeder as I am not fond of the idea either.