Here are two methods that I use that will help minimize your snake developing a feeding response everytime that the cage door is opened. The first is to utilize a feed door. Most "hot" keepers use this method. If you look at most prefab cages you will notice that most of them have two doors. I built my cages using the animal plastic and boaphile cages as a base design. Anyway, one door I use for all husbandry needs such as removing the snake, changing the water bowl, etc.. The other door is strictly used to introduce the prey item to the snake. After using this method I have noticed a vast difference in my snakes attitudes when I open the feed door compared to the other door. They quickly learn that they are getting fed one the one door is opened and that they get to play when the other is opened.

The other method is to use a snake hook religiously when removing your snake or when ever you enter his cage for non-feeding times. What this does is conditions the snake that when the hook is introduced in to the cage that he/she is not going to get fed and thus no feeding response. These two methods have worked extremely well for me over the years. Hope this helps. Todd

[ Show Entire Thread ]