Why shedding so often

[lizlopez]

I was gifted a 10 year old bp in about sept/ oct of this last year. shortly after getting him he shed. His previous owner did not feed very often (every 4-6 weeks) so I after getting advice from people here started feeding 1 small rat every 7-10 days. He gained 300 grams in about 2 months from 1730g to 2012g. he shed about 6-8 weeks after the first one with me and i figured it was due to weight gain. He then started the "I'm a boy and might get to have sex soon so why would I eat fast" he has taken 2 small rats in the last 2 months. Now he is turning pink again looking like he will shed AGAIN!! I don't see mites so any other ideas

thanks for any help

[Annarose15]

Sounds to me like it's still just growth to a healthy weight. Of course, at that size, I might question that it's a "he" - might want to get a second opinion.

[lizlopez]

Sounds to me like it's still just growth to a healthy weight. Of course, at that size, I might question that it's a "he" - might want to get a second opinion.

Was told he was a boy by the last owner but do not know how to tell myself and dont know anyone who can. "it" is about 4ft 3'' and 2000g is this really big for a boy?

[LLLReptile]

Was told he was a boy by the last owner but do not know how to tell myself and dont know anyone who can. "it" is about 4ft 3'' and 2000g is this really big for a boy?

It's normal for a large adult ball python of either gender, although definitely one of the larger males I've heard of if it is in fact a male.

The frequent shedding, like previously mentioned, is likely due to the increased frequency of feeding and isn't too uncommon or anything to be worried about.

-Jen

[Annarose15]

Was told he was a boy by the last owner but do not know how to tell myself and dont know anyone who can. "it" is about 4ft 3'' and 2000g is this really big for a boy?

Since the previous owner didn't even know how to feed properly, I wouldn't take that as gospel. If it's your only BP, it doesn't really matter if it's male or female. 2000g isn't impossible for a male, just a good bit less common than for a female. The two methods for sexing are popping and probing, which you can find multiple threads and youtube videos about, but it's definitely best if you can find a breeder local to you that will show you how in person.

[DooLittle]

Don't want to sound like a broken record, with everybody else, but I think probably just gaining to a healthy weight.

[luvmyballs]

don't want to sound like a broken record, with everybody else, but i think probably just gaining to a healthy weight.

x2

[lizlopez]

thanks for the help just wanted to check that I did not have to worry about him.

[DooLittle]

I definately wouldn't worry about a bp that was eating and shedding. It's when they protest and go on strike that you worry about them... Lol. Enjoy for now!