It may just be not quite right, and that may be part of why it was so hard to get started eating. Although, the fact that it is eating well now doesn't quite seem to fit that picture.

I really don't think it is a good idea to squeeze it out on a continuing basis. Once, to help massage out something that is stuck, yes, but I think there has to be some danger that the pressure you are applying could also force things in the wrong direction.

I wonder if stimulating the vent would do anything? Many species of mammals have to be stimulated by their mother licking them in order to go when they are newborns. I'm not at all sure that idea would transfer to a snake, though.