Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi everyone

How often should I handle her if she is off food?

I currently have a snake that is about 3 feet long. She isnt eating right now, but is still nice and fat. My setup is very good and she is provided with everything.

Some sources say don't touch the snake at all ( which makes absolutely no sense if i have to clean the enclosure), Others say it doesnt matter.

What are your opinions? Should I leave her alone to a bare minimum until feeding resumes?

In the past she would eat with no problems if I handled her for a while... it seemed to trigger a feeding response if i held her for a long enough time or placed her around my neck. Unfortunately I havent been able to play with her as often due to work.

Should I resume the normal handlings and see if it triggers a response?

Also, what are signs of stress, besides not eating?

Thanks everyone!

As long as she isn't breeding or anything you can continue to handle her as normal - tho I've noticed they get a little "grumpy" when they are off feed.
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Tosha
JET Pythons
The Blog
nihil facimus sed id bene facimus

I would handle her a few times a week at least if it is a pet. Many females go off feed this time of year, I wouldnt be too worried. If she has good body weight she can go months without eating and it will have no ill effects. I would expect her to start eating regularly as the season changes over the next month or so, especially if she has always been a good feeder. I usaully offer food this time of year and if its refused I just let them skip.

Thats why Balls are so great as pets. You do not have to walk them, comb them, cut their nails, etc.. They only eat 3-4 maybe 5 or 6 times a month(or less in winter). They go to the bathroom rather infrequently and its a snap to clean. You can hold them if you want too, and if you dont want to hold them they are perfectly content to sit under a warm hid for two weeks and mind their own business...the perfect pets.