My Ball Python is weak, not eating, and won't drink. What can I do?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Exotic | Unknown - Exotic | Female
My Ball Python has not eaten in about a month and she has lost a lot of weight and refuses to drink water and she is extremely weak. She does have a vet appointment scheduled but I'm just hoping to maybe find some answers before then. Before this past month she was completely normal, eating normal and is usually pretty active for a snake. Just wondering if there's something I can do?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on February 14th, 2017
Check the tank temps. If it is too cold, she won't eat. Aim for the mid 70s on the cool side of her enclosure up to the mid/high 80s on warmer side. Feed her at night. BPs are nocturnal and typically feed at night. Create a hide and cover it completely with her and the prey inside. Make sure whatever prey you offer is the appropriate size and not too cold (especially if you feed frozen prey). Other ways to get her to eat would be to offer different colored mice. Tap a thawed, warmed or freshly killed mouse on her nose to elicit a strike. Removing her from the enclosure, placing the prey in, then returning her about 30 minutes later may also get her to eat. Soak her in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte a couple times daily to treat or prevent mild dehydration. Do not force feed her if she is dehydrated or without the advice of your veterinarian.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on September 2nd, 2018
Ball pythons are notorious for their "hunger strikes". Drop the humidity to about 50%, you only need higher humidity during a shed. Bump up the ambient temp to between 80 F and 85 F. It doesn't seem like a lot, but a cold snake will not eat. Soak her in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte for 20-30 minutes. This will provide warmth and hydration. Place her in a pillow case, or cover her cage, at the next feeding. Go to the local Petco and ask for some used gerbil bedding. Use it to scent the mouse. Make sure the mouse is at proper temp and not too big for Morgana. If she doesn't eat, wait 5 days and try again. Unless you have experience with assisted feedings, it would not be recommended to try it on your own. Have your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet examine her to diagnose and treat any illness or injury. He or she can also guide you in feeding.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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