Assisted Feeding

[capsicum]

Sorry, I am not sure where to post this, so if someone could please direct me, I would be greatful!

I have a friend with an adult male rubber boa. This little guy hasn't eaten a thing since they purchased him in February of this year. They had a fecal done before they moved (they were in northern Alberta, and now are northern BC), and everything was fine. The temps and conditions are fine (from what they say). The one thing that I can think of is handling and the fact that they live in a very busy household (tons of kids and noise). They handle him often, probably 4 times a week, for about 1 hour or so.

Someone recommended assisted feeding, but I am not sure how/if this is needed. They don't seem to worry too much about it, since they only paid $10 for him and the setup :(

Anything I can offer them would be of help (they don't have net access, otherwise I would send them online).

Thanks in Advance!

TK

PS Forgot to mention that they move around a lot, and will be returning to Alberta in a matter of weeks. Of, and they were told that the snake was CBB if that helps?

[Katt]

That rubber boa maybe wanting to brumate.

Also adult male erycines just aren't super great feeders. If he isn't losing much weight, I wouldn't worry. Tell them they should brumate him this winter and see how he feeds in the spring.

[capsicum]

Thanks Katt! I will let them know :)

TK

[Samba]

I don't think that brumation is a key factor here... it may have been back in February, but until October? That's extensive. I'm no expert with Rubber Boas, but I believe stress may be a factor here, along with husbandry. It's hard to say without examining the snake, and it's environment. Keep us posted on it, and I wouldn't recommend assist-feeding until these people have been shown how to do it by a qualified veterinarian. Good Luck!

[capsicum]

They are bringing it to me for a while, see if our more quieter place will help (they are going on the road again anyways). I will see if I can scent somefood, and anything else I try. I won't go to assist feed unless it is recomended by a vet.

Thanks for the replies!

TK