Is the size of the enclosure a factor while breeding bp's? I mean is it better to pair them in smaller or bigger cages?

I'm asking because when I pair my bp's they lay in separate ends of the cage (it's female's cage and its 48 inches long x 20 inches wide). Is it better to put them both into smaller cage or it doesn't matter?

Also do u feed your ball pythons while breeding (for example during breaks when male is out?)