Stunted Growth

[Jacktar]

I've heard both sides of the debate. I've heard that a snake will grow to whatever size it's meant to but the rate of feeding is the determining factor. I've also heard that NOT feeding enough food at a young age will stunt it's growth. I'm curious about other members' experience and opinions with this

[Snakes&Fish]

Well snakes are designed to go without food. So I never understood the whole stunting. I guess however if one snake is refused a decent feeding schedule for too long it could impact its adult size.

[millertime89]

Yes, you can stunt a snakes growth by not feeding enough. There are several members here that have taken in animals that were stunted.

[Kuamata]

Well, there was a recent post by a member where their young snake was recommended to be fed once a month or some sort. That may be appropriate for an adult, but would eventually stunt a baby. It's not an overnight thing, it takes a while, but once it's reached the age it should be done growing, you'd probably see the difference between a snake that was fed a more appropriate schedule vs. that one. Same goes for 'power feeding'. By the time it's all said and done, you may notice the power fed snake is substantially bigger than the snake on a normal schedule... However, responsible keepers never recommend power feeding, as it can, for one, potentially kill your snake, and, for two, assuming it doesn't die, it can cause damage and ultimately end up shortening the lifespan of your snake.

[pdomensis]

I think feeding and temps may play a role in this as they both are involved in metabolism. I agree with Kuamata that overfeeding is just as potentially dangerous as underfeeding. I'd rather see a trim, active snake than a giant slug.