more food issues

hondo-dan · 12-11-14, 09:12 PM

I know eating problems are a common question but I've got another one for you. My hondo has been a great eater since I got him. Never had problems getting him to take whatever size mice I gave him. The past could months or so I've had him on larger fuzzies near hopper size abd he's done great until the last couple weeks. Last week he was in blue so I figured that's why. I left the mouse in there with him and he ate it the next day when no one was around. He shed yesterday morning and I figured he'd be nice and hungry. But like last week he wasn't at all interested and would try and hide. I've left the mouse in with him again so hopefully he'll eat it. Any ideas or suggestions.

Rattlehead · 12-12-14, 11:36 AM

If you don't see any visible weight loss, he's ok. When mine seems to be 'not so hungry' I pierce the skull of the pinky with a needle so the smell of the prey is more intense, and she usually eats it. See if that works for you

Cmwells90 · 12-12-14, 01:30 PM

Snakes going off feed is normal, some breeds more than others. As long as your heat, humidity, and care is on point, it's just a waiting game. I just had a corn snake eat after 2 1/2 months of refusing. This is something that occurs more often in the winter because of the colder weather. Just keep offering every 5-7 days and he'll eat when he's ready. You'll only need to worry when you start to see weight loss.

hondo-dan · 12-12-14, 04:49 PM

Great info. Thanks guys. He's definitely looking healthy. His shed went great and all else seems good. How important is it to weigh him periodically?

Cmwells90 · 12-12-14, 05:33 PM

I weigh my snakes 1 a month while they're growing, and switch to one ever 4-6 months once they slow down in growth. But you don't HAVE to weight them, but doing so gives you more information so you can notice changes better.

**EL Ziggy** · 12-12-14, 07:03 PM

As others have said if he's losing weight, and your husbandry is on point, you shouldn't worry. A lot of snakes are going off feed this time of year. One of my kings has eaten twice in 3 months but he hasn't lost any weight. He did the same thing last winter so I'm better prepared this time around. I offer him food every 10-14 days now. I usually weigh my snakes once or twice a month. I just like to record their growth. Best wishes.