Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I purchased a near adult S. Florida Kingsnake a couple months ago. The snake was a breeder and was thin as a result. I was advised to feed it several mice two to three times a week until he fattened up and grew.

The snake produced a wheezing sound from day one. The breeder was very gracious and was willing to do whatever to make it right, but he didn't think it was a RTI. I contacted a vet who breeds snakes and she told me to watch the snake and not to be concerned if he continues to eat well and shows no other signs of illness.

The snake ate well until about three weeks ago. He has rejected his last three feedings. He is still very active and his tongue flickers constantly. He wheezes (or lightly hisses?) occasionally but not regularly. The cage temps are right.

So here's my question: is it common or alright for a growing Kingsnake to reject feeding for a few weeks, or should I be concerned?

Thanks.

Yes, I have my snakes sometimes take a few weeks off. When is the last time your snake shed? It might be going into a cycle where it is getting ready to shed it's skin. Some of my snakes won't feed at that time. Take care.
www.4lakessnakes

Has the snake regained the weight since you got him? If not, I would be very worried. If the snake has regained weight, it could just be because of breeding season or going into shed as mentioned. Definately keep a close eye on him.
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King Snakes! Who can make a better mouse trap?
J Sierra

Thanks. You mentioned that the snakes reluctance to eat could be due to "breeding season": this may be a dumb question, but the snake is VERY active, almost always on the move--is this evidence that he's entered into "breeding mode" or something like that? The snake was a breeder snake with his former owner.