Reptile & Amphibian Forums

can anyone help me, i have a 3 ft long bull snake in good health, is eating reagularly and puting on weight but she has not had a bowel movement for the last 2 or 3 feedings, is this normal, if not any suggestions on how to get her back on track. thank you atrox182

I've been having the same problem with a young boa. You can try soaking the snake in warm water for half an hour periods. Sometimes they will go right then and there. Also, misting the snake can be a good way to increase hydration. I've received a lot of conflicting advice about the issue...some people say don't worry about it for a couple more feedings. Others say pooping will occur around the next shed cycle. Finally, some say to stop feeding and soak the snake periodically until it goes. If it lasts too long, your snake could have an impacted intestine, which is a definite vet visit. Hope that helps. I'm in the same boat.

thanks for the help, ill give it a try. atrox182

The above advice is great; also look for ways to improve your husbandry (humidity hide, ect) I keep my large bullsnake in a fairly dry enclosure but with a large water basin that is used about weekly by "Odie" for a good overnight soak.
There is a large difference with boas and bulls, and the bull snake should be much more active and regular than the boa. Inactivity, cool temps, dehydration, and smaller then normal food items can all cause decreased defecation. All but the latter needs to be fixed asap.

she is active, the temps are 85 to 90 day, slight drop at night,i keep a warter bowl in the enclosure, the only thing that has changed is i was feeding 3 mice at a feeding, then i droped it back to 2. thank you for the advice. atrox182