I am babysitting a a (year old now) BP. I was given by the owner fuzzy mice to give to him weekly. He had no thermostat or thermometer. Well once i got some research done on BP's, thanks to this great forum and my local reptile room,i found the BP was being underfed and underweight by his owner and by me for the 2 months i had him . Now his temps/humidity are correct etc with Habistat/ digi thermometers.
He never got excited about the fuzzy mice and used to miss strike (no wonder they are that small), he's now on rat fluffs and eating well. I pre scent with the paper towel the rat was defrosted in an hour before feeding, and he goes wild climbing up the enclosure. I would suggest getting him on rats or larger mice asap. Don't chase him with food by lifting his hide up as it will leave him nowhere to feel safe and add more stress, i guess striking out was his last means of telling you he's not happy after his safe place was lifted away.
I got frustrated when he wouldn't eat, and it took a few unsuccessful attempts to switch to new rodent size, but everything seems to be going well so far, touch wood.
I am no expert and still learning about snakes, but i would try the rats as it made a massive difference in my BP's eating response...(he's filling out already!)....and yes it looks like he's with me for good as owner has gone AWOL!!
good luck
Reply With Quote