First ball python! Could use some guidance.

[TheBallPython]

Oh, I have another question. She has been eating live all of her life according to the previous owner. I would rather try to convert her to frozen/thawed, but for right now should I just stick with live which is what she's used to? Or could I go ahead and try a switch? She is due for a feeding as they told me she hasn't eaten in two weeks. That's why they had given her the rat she threw up.

[KMG]

Did the previous owner say if they tried frozen before and it was refused?

If so, I would wait and get a few meals in it.

If not, you could certainly try and see what happens. I personally have had really good luck switching snakes to frozen. Just thaw thoroughly and serve hot.

[Emeraldtail]

After reading over this thread, my recommendation is to let her settle in before trying to feed. Let her hide for a week or two. It's hard to be patient but its important for the health of your snake. After that, there's no harm in offering a frozen thawed. One other thing, it may be hard for you to notice mites with the cypress so inspect her closely when you do hold her. =)

[TheBallPython]

Did the previous owner say if they tried frozen before and it was refused?

If so, I would wait and get a few meals in it.

If not, you could certainly try and see what happens. I personally have had really good luck switching snakes to frozen. Just thaw thoroughly and serve hot.

Thanks! No, they didn't say that they ever tried it. I'll give it a try then!

After reading over this thread, my recommendation is to let her settle in before trying to feed. Let her hide for a week or two. It's hard to be patient but its important for the health of your snake. After that, there's no harm in offering a frozen thawed. One other thing, it may be hard for you to notice mites with the cypress so inspect her closely when you do hold her. =)

But she hasn't eaten in over two weeks? Isn't that going to stress her to not eat and be hungry? And will do with watching out for the mites!

She was out wandering the entire enclosure last night for a while. I'm thinking she's starting to feel more comfortable all ready.