rat too big?????

[chocolatepudding]

So i just fed my ball python a small rat, it was almost the exact size of his body, just the smallest bit bigger. Only problem is, watching him eat, he seems to be struggling to get it down, his head just seems way too small.... i don't want him getting hurt... I was giving him multiple large mice before, which were smaller than his size. Maybe in comparison it just seems like a huge adjustment?
help!

[kriwu]

It's a good guide to go by the largest width of your BP but if your BP seems to be struggling with it, I'd probably just drop to a smaller size until your baby grows a bit. Better safe than a split snake.

[JoshSloane]

Nah, you will be fine. These guys can stretch a good amount. It's not good practice to give them something massive they cant handle, but if its only a mild struggle, should be fine.