Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have a ball python that I believe got injured approx. a year ago. He was housed with two other snakes the same size and was always put in a tote by himself to eat. Never refused a meal until a year ago. He didn't have any visible injuries, but refused to eat and held his head funny like he couldn't straighten his neck. When you put him down he would not go forward. He went backwards everywhere he went. This was around Feb. of last year. In March got a divorce and didn't get him back until August. My exhusband said that he never did eat and he looked awful when we got him back. I have since tried everything possible to get him to eat since then and have only been successful 3or 4 times. He never refuses it. He hits it everytime and then holds it for a day, but refuses to swallow. We have tried feeding in totes, in his tank, dipping the mouse in chicken broth. We have talked to several breeders who have never heard of a ball taking the food, but not eating. Usually they just don't show any interest which is not the case. He moves fine now. Anyone have any idea what is going on with this snake? Or anymore ideas I can try. I know he can swallow I have seen him do it.

Hey,

Man, they can be frustrating. Usually when they kill and do not eat, they are annoyed by the animal in their enclosure. I have a female w/c that does this with rats, but she WILL take gerbils. Try gerbils, rats, and mice (all sizes and colors) and even hampsters if you must. Does the snake have a hide? I have some that won't eat unless they strike from inside the hide. Does the snake have a heat pad? If it's too cold to digest, it may not eat. You may want to take it to a vet (not just any vet, a reptile specialist). I thought this advice was crazy 6 years ago- take a snake to a vet? Now I have an HMO for all my snakes!

E-mail me if I can help in any way.

Thanks,

Steve Harrison
Jacksonville, FL