Feeding more than one prey question and other assorted questions

[jack jones]

So after paying a little over $3.00 after tax for a rat "pup" (which seemed more like a fuzzy) at the pet store, I took the plunge and ordered from Big Cheese. I got a pack of rat fuzzies because they supposedly average 10-19g. I'm planning on following the 10-15% suggestion. Since my BP was 108 grams about two weeks ago, and has now eaten twice, I figure that should take me through for a bit with weekly feedings.

Now I've watched him eat twice. When/If it seems I have to double up on the fuzzies, assuming he gains sufficient weight before I finish the pack, how far down his throat and body should the first prey be before I attempt to offer a second?

Also, what's a good suggestion on how often to weigh? Once a month?

Finally, after the first feedings, I waited a week before tonight's meal. I've yet to see any waste products in his tank. Is that normal?

[Stewart_Reptiles]

how far down his throat and body should the first prey be before I attempt to offer a second?

Completely down and into it's belly.

Also, what's a good suggestion on how often to weigh? Once a month?

It's up to YOU I don't weigh any of my hatchlings.

Finally, after the first feedings, I waited a week before tonight's meal. I've yet to see any waste products in his tank. Is that normal?

They do not go on schedule, it can be every week, every other week once a month or more, it depends on the feeding amount and frequency as well as the age of the animal. They go when they are ready.

[LittleTreeGuy]

Just an FYI, I ordered rat fuzzies from Big Cheese and I've went through 5 or 6 so far. They have been between 14 and 24g. I was very pleased to see some "larger" ones in the bag, that way I feel the bag can be used as the snake grows. Hopefully it works out the same for you.

[Kokorobosoi]

When I've fed a second item, mostly because someone else has refused, I offer it after I no longer see any rat tail remaining.

[Prognathodon]

We weigh every time we feed (5-10 days, depending on the snake), unless somebody is being really resistant to coming out; but we're only feeding 6-10 snakes on any day. The ones most likely to not want to come out are also the best feeders, too.

We could probably back off on how often we weigh the bigger ones, but even so I'd probably still do once a month - the process is quick and easy.


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[EL-Ziggy]

I agree with the other members. Feed the second prey item once the snake has completely swallowed the first one. I usually weigh my snakes once a month after they've evacuated their last meal.

[gaitedappy]

Offer the second item once the first is swallowed. I usually weigh after sheds or after bowel movement , whichever comes first.


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[Slim]

I like to weigh after each shed. Personally, I'm not a fan of feeding two prey items, but I know lots of people do with no ill effect on their animals.

[Mr. Misha]

Also, what's a good suggestion on how often to weigh? Once a month?

I suggest weighing your BP after he deficates. That way you're going to capture his "empty" weight which is the best and consistent way to measure his growth progress. There's different programs to keep track of weight and feedings. I personally use iherp.com.

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