I will begin by saying i have never bred snakes. But you are right, she is rather skinny for a 4 year old.



However, common sense allows that a female should be bulked up quite considerably before being allowed to mate. This is because many snakes will shy from food whilst gravid. I wouldn't consider force feeding yet. And, if you've never been taught how to do it, visit a breeder, or a herpetological vet and ask them to show you. It is very dangerous and can often lead to death if done improperly. IT IS AN ABSOLUTE LAST RESORT.



A 4 year old 5 foot snake should be fine not to eat for a considerable time. Keep her away from the male whilst she isn't eating. You don't want to stress her out even more.



As far as feeding... don't go to mice yet.



A good technique is to get three or four mice and one rat, place them in a sealed plastic bag, and all together into some reasonably warm water. As they thaw together, the smells of the mice should be infused in the rat.



Try braining a rat... cut the scalp of a warmed rat and squeeze out some brain fluid. This often stimulates feeding.



Ensure the rat is warm, but not cooked, when you offer it. Don't allow it to cool too much.



Also, before even considering force feeding... another option is assist feeding. This is where you place the head of a rat in a snake's mouth, hold it for 30 seconds or so, and then gently place the snake back down. She should then proceed to swallow on her own. But, once again, DON'T DO THIS UNLESS YOU'VE BEEN SHOWN HOW TO BY A BREEDER OR A VET. You may kill her.



Just remember... don't panic. When she is ready to eat, she will eat. It is not often a snake will let herself die of starvation if she is healthy, and food is offered weekly. Don't offer food more than once a week. You may desensitize her feeding trigger.



Just my two cents worth, take it or leave it.

Good luck.



Cheers.

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