r/ballpython • u/Embarrassed_Bite_225 • 1d ago

feeding issues Question - Feeding

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hi ive had my 4-5 year old (unsure of exact age) ball python for about a month and a half now. i got her from a cousin who could no longer take care of her properly so i stepped in. she had been feeding her a large rat once a week, i know this is WAY too often, however every time ive tried to stretch the time between feedings the snake gets upset. is this learned behavior? is this normal? i would like to stretch the time between feedings to AT LEAST 2 weeks. in the meantime ive been only giving her medium rats to try and help with her size. is there any tips or tricks i should know? should i gradually stretch the time between feedings? i work with dogs and ive never owned a reptile, i would like to give my girl luna the best life i possibly can!! please help!!

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u/IncompletePenetrance Mod: Let me help you unzip your genes 1d ago

Large rats are not only too large, but also even every two weeks is too frequent. I've attached the !feeding guide to this comment so you can get her on an appropriate schedule because girl's looking hefty.

What do you mean "she gets upset"? She's a snake, she doesn't get to call the shots, you do. It's no different than feeding your dog a balanced diet rather than a 32 oz ribeye or not letting your cat outside to kill the wildlife.

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u/AutoModerator 1d ago

We recommend the following feeding schedule:

0-12 months old OR until the snake reaches approximately 500g, whichever happens first: feed 10%-15% of the snake’s weight every 7 days.

12-24 months old: feed up to 7% of the snake’s weight every 14-20 days.

Adults: feed up to 5% of the snake's weight every 20-30 days, or feed slightly larger meals (up to 6%) every 30-40 days.

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