Ball Python eating problems

[Bogertophis]

Well, "he" is not starving, that's for sure- so don't worry so much about his appetite- he's very well-fed, & I just don't think he's feeling hungry. But he's a beautiful snake, & looks healthy.

Here's the thing- whether a human or a snake, some have more appetite than others, & some carry more weight than others. We don't all agree on the exact right answer, but here's a chart that turns up on this forum every so often to help everyone gauge their snake's nutritional status- I hope it helps. Many who keep adult male BPs find they eat best (most consistently) when only fed small adult rats (& never large ones). When a snake eats an overly-large meal, it's only natural that they're going to take longer before they feel the need to eat again- that's just how adaptable they are- not like us, we have to eat all they time. But snakes don't- they're lucky that way, & it's how they survive harsh conditions in nature.

https://ball-pythons.net/forums/cach...f42b352b68.jpg




BTW, I don't think the high temperature has anything to do with his lack of appetite- if anything, being warmer means a snake burns calories faster so they'd get hungry sooner. But temperatures over 90* for a BP are a SAFETY issue- probably because BPs are heavier-bodied snakes that like & need warmth, they don't seem to realize they're getting "burned" until it's too late. You cannot depend on a BP to move off before they suffer painful "burns", require medical treatment and take a long time to heal, so apparently you've been lucky so far. Please do adjust your upper temperature IF you're sure it's accurately being read, just for his safety.