Dang, that sucks. I've always been worried about my snakes slamming the litter dam or cage when eating too. Thats why i hang the stuff in the center of the cage with my BBQ tongs lol.
Caesar has really mellowed on food. He hasent eaten in almost 2 weeks and he isnt pushing at all except at night when he wants the door slid open so he can hang out lol. Luckily he only pushes on one spot and thats the center brace where the door gap is. I think he smells the fresh air and since he wants to hang out outside, he pushes right there. I open the door and rub his body and he comes over to the open door and lays down next to me. Never seen a snake act like a dog haha.
Hopefully Phyllis gets better without having the stress and cash of going to the vet. Good luck man.