Changing feed schedule?

[ThyTempest]

Hey everyone,

I wanted to get some input about changing my bp's feeding schedule. I took her to the vet about 2 weeks ago, and she weighed in at 450 grams. I don't have a scale yet, so I am not sure of her weight now. She is eating two adult mice, which again, without a scale, I am not sure about the weight. Currently, that is 2 adult live mice every week, but with people saying that at 450 grams, 2-3 years old (as stated by vet, and makes sense with what I know about her, since she was a rescue), and about ~25 inches or so long, she is quite underweight. Would it be better to switch to a 5 day feeding schedule for a couple of months, just to try and get some weight on her? If so, I would be feeding tonight, if not, Thursday.

Thanks for the help, and if you need any more info, feel free to ask. I want to get a scale soon, but with my summer job falling through, it may be a while.

[Jenn]

Are you sure you have a two or three year old BP that is only 25 inches long??? That doesn't sound right to me.

[Patrick Long]

My Bps were hatched in Aug 07, they are at 700 grams.


Your bp is prolly NOT 2-3 years. LOL. I doubt a snake that underfed would actually live that long.

And I have switched my feeding day numerous times, with no ill effects!

[ThyTempest]

The vet estimated her at 2-3 years, but being a rescue, I dont know. I can ask and see how long the previous owner had her, but from what I know, that age sounds about right. She was pretty much not fed, and was being housed in a 10 gallon tank.

[Jenn]

A 25" long BP at three years old is not underfed. It's a miracle!!!

[DSGB]

yeah i also change my feeding schedual sometimes due to work. but its always either monday or tuesday. My snake doesnt mind she eats whenever and whatever.

[FIREball]

My Bps were hatched in Aug 07, they are at 700 grams.


Your bp is prolly NOT 2-3 years. LOL. I doubt a snake that underfed would actually live that long.

And I have switched my feeding day numerous times, with no ill effects!

I took in a 3yr old female from a co-worker and it weighed 700g but its size was proportionate. Its over 1000g now and only had it 2 months. Feeds every 6 days on a small rat.

[ThyTempest]

So it seems that the concensus is that moving to a 5 day schedule would be fine.

[Patrick Long]

I think Im still leanin towards every seven, because you are doing two mice. maybe try a rat pup, or a weaned rat (whatever is more appropriate size), and see how that meal is absorbed through the next couple of days.

[starmom]

Yup- I'd do a weanling rat and feed every 7 days.
BTW- I have 07 snakes that are everywhere from 300g up to 1100g!