Baby BPs, handling, and feeding

[Jamie]

I'm reading that it's wise to leave your snake alone (don't handle or disturb too much) a day or two following feeding. I've also been reading that babies typically can eat twice weekly. So, for instance, if I feed them on Monday and Thursday, plus give them adequate time to digest their meals...when can I take the snake out and enjoy holding it without stressing it or causing digestion issues? I suppose this particular issue resolves itself once the snake is larger and eating only once per week.

Additionally, do babies require a week or two of being left alone in their new cage--or can I hold them right away once I've brought them home?

If you can't tell, I'm pretty geeked about buying one and imagine having some difficulty with the patience I'll need.

[dr del]

Hi,


Most people recomend feeding every 5-7 days. Digestion can be an intensive process and they don't need to eat twice a week at any stage really.

Yes its best to let them settle in for a week or so - in fact it's not a bad idea not to handle them more than necessary till they have a good feeding schedule established.


dr del

[Stewart_Reptiles]

The reason you need to allow 2 days after feeding without handling is to avoid stress that could lead to regurgitation.

Now keep in mind that you should allow at least 5 days between feeding.

Also while some feed every 5 days, many feed only once a week, I feed mine every 7 days regardless of age.

[mricyfire]

Exactly what they said...but if your snake you want to handle...gradually get it used to people and handle it in short amount of times at first and then increase depending on what you want. Ex. I started my guy at 15 minutes a day like everywhere i read said to...then i started doing it more often and letting my roommates hold...and months later he just isnt bothered by anyone actually seems to like company (or warmth of humans). My guy has never missed a meal or regurgitated. Only time I dont mess with him much is during shed...from what i have experienced..in shed the less handled the easier the shed...i guess it is from hand oils that make it hard...

Hope this helps.