Help! My ball python hasn't eaten in 6 months and is losing weight.

Question

I have two ball pythons, both females, both right around one year old. Neither of them has eaten in over 6 months, and I'm getting worried. I've tried live, f/t, and different varieties of prey. I've tried changing their tanks and substrate and hides. The temperature in their tanks is about 90 in the basking spot and 80 ambient. I'm really worried; they're losing weight and getting wrinkly. What should I do?

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

Ball pythons are notorious for their "hunger strikes". All parameters seem to be within species ranges. Survey the area around the cage for any negative stimuli. This may include loud noises or vibrations, bright lights, cold drafts or high traffic. Reduce or eliminate any if found. Go to the local Petco and ask for a small amount of used (but not dirty) gerbil bedding. Use it to scent prey for your snakes. Gerbils are what pythons eat in the wild, so the scent may trigger their appetites. Soak them both in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte to treat or prevent minor dehydration. An exam with your veterinarian would be recommended to diagnose any underlying illness or injury.

Help! My ball python hasn't eaten in 6 months and is losing weight.

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