Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I own a very pretty young columbian boa constrictor named Rock that has by far been my most favourite snake I've ever owned. He's been a regular eater and I feed him as much as possible (mostly once a week). I feed him frozen mice which I get from my work (Pet Paradise). He's eaten many times and shed a few times, however the last two feedings he's regurgitated his food partially digest - very gross. Im concerned why this is happening. The first time he did it the other week I assumed it was cuz I didnt give him enough time to fully digest the food item before handling, or possibly cuz it was very hot outside and I always let him bask in the sun on my back deck or in the small shrub in my backyard. But Im left confused now. I'm hoping he's ok, cuz he still seems like the same old Rock. Can anyone give me suggestions or help with this problem? It would be greatly apprecaited. Thank you.

Make sure the boa's cage temps are good.. like 78 cool side to 88 warm side. Boas can regurge if kept too warm or too cool or when handled too much. Food that is not thawed completely or still cold can cause regurge too.

Don't feed him for about 10 days. This is to let the digestive system "heal" so to speak. Then try one small meal, warmed up if thawed. Don't bother him for 2-3 days after feeding.

If the above doesn't work, then a trip to the vet is necessary for possible parasite infection or other problem.

Although boas are very tame usually, they really are shy snakes, especially when young. It is best not to handle young boas excessively, and it is best not to stuff them with alot of food at each feeding. One meal a week is usually plenty. Good luck.

I'd have to agree with what the first guy replied with, but also I'd like to add one thing...

feeding as much as possible isn't always best...
personally, I let my snakes defocate before feeding them again because I have seen some people fed their snakes a little too soon, the tail becomes really plump like they have to "go" and they stuff more food in the snake.. which can lead to digestive tract problems...

this can sometimes be caused by dehydration also, I always have a water dish for mine, and give them a full bath in the tub at least every other week so they can swim around

but one problem I've also seen with water is the snake will eat and before he is done digesting his food drink WAY too much water... then the water and the partially digested food will come up...
if this happens remove the water dish for a day or so after feeding... allowing them only a few short "sips" to wash down the prey.

if your snake does for any reason take an unusually long ammount of time to defocate, gently feel along the underside of the belly to see if any hard lumps are present...

hopefully this added tidbit helps you in some way

I"ve added my link so you can check out some of my critters
and Alaskan projects and wildlife.
Good luck with Rock!!!
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