New ball python owner

[BallJohnny]

I currently feeding him large f/t mice, its what the petshop had been feeding him, also the fed him in a separate tub. he is captive bred to if that makes a different.

[RetiredJedi]

I currently feeding him large f/t mice, its what the petshop had been feeding him, also the fed him in a separate tub. he is captive bred to if that makes a different.

Did he seem interested when you offered him food or did he just sit there and ignore it? I would try and keep him in his current enclosure next try. If he seemed interested but just didn't take it, the f/t might not be warm enough for him. If he seems to be striking in a defensive manner or not at all he could be stressed.

[BallJohnny]

Every time i have fed him(two times) hes actually tried to escape the tub, second time almost getting out lol. He kind of shows no interest in the food.

[RetiredJedi]

Every time i have fed him(two times) hes actually tried to escape the tub, second time almost getting out lol. He kind of shows no interest in the food.

Yea, that sounds like he is stressed. I would completely leave him alone for a week and only check on him to see if he needs to be cleaned or change of water.

[whispersinmyhead]

I didn't have any success feeding in separate tub. I am also new to the snake world. My breeder was feeding live rats and I was trying F/T. I think every BP is going to be a little different but security is a big thing for them. Taking them out of the home tub/cage may cause a little extra stress for them and could cause them not to feel secure enough to feed. In my case I let ours acclimate for 7-8 days then tried feeding. I changed the food and attempted in separate tub without success. After help from people on this forum I tried feeding live (like the breeder did) and in the cage. She took it no problem.

Sticking to the same food as pet shop at first is a good idea. IMO (and those who helped me get mine eating), feeding in the enclosure provides security so it won't hurt. Some feed in separate feeding tub/tank with success but to get things started keep as much the same as possible. If you want to change I would suggest making small changed slowly.

I wish you the best luck and WELCOME!

[BallJohnny]

Thanks for the advice, i'll give him another week just opening his cage to mist one side and change his water.

[whispersinmyhead]

It won't hurt to limit you interaction with him until you get at lest one feeding into him. After that give him 24-36 hours before handling (some say 48 or more). I just don't handle the day after so she gets 36 hours to start digest and be comfortable. Good luck and keep us posted.