Tonight was a feeding night for that little rescued pastel, who has been eating like a trooper for me so far. Past feedings were rather quick: he would nab the fuzzy (he's almost ready for small hoppers) and gulp it down quick. Not really surprising since he was so underweight. Tonight, however, he took 2 1/2 HOURS to take the fuzzy down. He did finally eat, and slithered right into his warm hide afterwards, but I was shocked at how long it took him. It seemed he was just holding the mouse in his coils most of the time, then the last half hour or so was spent in swallowing it. Or so I would estimate...I checked on him quickly every 15-30 minutes after the first 45.

Could it have been that I was checking on him so much? Or could it be that he seems a little 'backed up' in the waste production area (i.e. the area just above his vent is kind of swollen)? I've never known a snake of any age or condition to take that long with a meal.

Also, related to the waste backup, has anyone here ever had to 'help' their snake pass wastes before? I know the vet helped him by squeezing him gently, like a toothpaste tube almost, but I would be scared of hurting him if I tried to do it myself and I can't take him in again. Any suggestions??