How can you tell when a F/T is thawed?

[TheKingInYellow]

So tonight is the first feeding for both my new snakes. I'm feeding a pinky rat to the JCP and a fuzzy mouse to the GBK.

I have both in their own little baggies in 80-90 degree water. They were sitting in 75 degree (or so) water for an hour prior to now. They feel 'squishy' when I poke them. Does that mean they are thawed all the way through? What are the risks of feeding a not-totally-thawed feeder?

Man, I am going to have a lot of newb questions for the next week or so

[python.princess]

If you squeeze it and it feels soft, it's thawed. And after being in warm water for an hour, I'd say they've gotta be thawed!

[starmom]

Press on their belly and make sure there is nothing cold or frozen in there! Make sure to zap them with a blow dryer, or put them under a light, to raise their body (esp head) temp

[Argentra]

Yep, if the prey item is soft and pliable with no cold spots it's thawed. And it usually only takes about 20 min at most for a med. rat, let alone pinkys. Just replace cooling water with fresh hot, and then give a good blast with the hair dryer to warm it up.

[TheKingInYellow]

Sounds good. I was just going to soak them in 90 degree water right before I fed and then dry off with a paper towel (the little bags leaked).

Another question, is there a maximum length of time you leave them un-thawed before you toss them? I haven't had a chance to feed them yet, so they have been thawed for two and half hours or so...

[TheKingInYellow]

UPDATE!

WHOO HOO!

Two feeding attempts, two successes! The GBK was a little shy and hid at first, but I popped the top off her hide and she took the fuzzy on the first strike. Had a little trouble swallowing the shoulders but she got it down.

The JCP was far easier. She just hung out in her hanging plant, missed the first strike, but nailed the second and gulped the pinky rat down in a matter of seconds.

I feel so RELIEVED.

I know that the JCP is not known as a finicky eater, but the GBKs are. I'm glad it went so well for my first ever feeding!

[blackcrystal22]

When they feel stiff you'd want to probably pitch them. ;]

Congrats on your feeding!