Posted by:
KevinM
at Thu Jun 25 11:19:15 2009 [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by KevinM ]
First and foremost, ONLY feed appropriate sized prey. There is no way a baby ratsnake could probably eat an adult gerbil or hamster. Odds are the tables will be turned and the hamster or gerbil will kill the baby ratsnake out of defense. Feed prey about large enough to leave a little bit of visible lump in the snakes belly after it feeds. Hatchling corns and ratsnakes usually look like they swallowed a cannon ball after eating their first pinky mouse.
I would also suggest feeding frozen mice of appropriate size that are thoroughly thawed before offering. Even the big chain petshops have them now and they are safe (don't bite at any size) and convenient (usually come three to six in a pack and can be stored in your freezer til needed), and even a bit cheaper than the live animals. You can even go online and frozen feeder mice MUCH cheaper than the petshop prices and Kinsngake.com is a great place to find rodent vendors.
If your ratsnake is large enough to eat a small rat, adult hamster, gerbil, etc. and you want to spend the $$, then there is absolutely no problem with feeding it those items. I would suggest an appropriate sized item weekly however.
Best of luck with your new snake!! Be patient, read the forums and care sheets available, and you will enjoy your new pet.
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RE: Food Ideas for Yellow Rat Snake - KevinM, Thu Jun 25 11:19:15 2009