Beginner’s Guide: Feeding Your Ball Python
Feeding is one of the most important aspects of ball python care. Ball pythons are carnivorous constrictors, meaning they rely on consuming whole prey for proper nutrition. Understanding the different feeding options—frozen-thawed, live, and freshly killed—can help you make the best choice for your snake’s health and safety.
1. Choosing the Right Prey Size (10% of your snakes weight in grams)
The ideal prey size should be approximately the same width as the thickest part of your ball python’s body.
✅ Prey Size Guidelines:
• Hatchlings (0-3 months): Small pinky or fuzzy mice
• Juveniles (3-12 months): Large fuzzies or hopper mice
• Sub-Adults (1-2 years): Small to medium rats
• Adults (2+ years): Medium to large rats
🚫 Avoid feeding prey that is too large, as it can cause regurgitation or injury.
2. Feeding Frequency
• Hatchlings to Juveniles (0-1 year): Every 5-7 days
• Sub-Adults (1-3 years): Every 7-10 days
• Adults (3+ years): Every 10-14 days
• Breeding Females: May require more frequent meals during breeding season
🚫 Avoid handling for 24-48 hours after feeding to prevent regurgitation.
3. Feeding Methods: Frozen-Thawed vs. Live vs. Freshly Killed
Option 1: Frozen-Thawed (F/T) - Recommended
✅ Pros:
✔️ Safest option—no risk of injury from live prey
✔️ Convenient—easier to store and less frequent trips to purchase feeders
✔️ More humane—prey is euthanized before freezing
✔️ Eliminates the risk of parasites or diseases from live rodents
❌ Cons:
• Some ball pythons may refuse F/T prey if they were previously fed live
• Requires proper thawing and warming to encourage feeding
🟢 How to Prepare Frozen-Thawed Prey:
1. Thaw the rodent in a sealed bag placed in warm water (never microwave).
2. Ensure the prey is warm (~100°F/37°C) by using a temp gun.
3. Use feeding tongs to mimic natural movement and encourage a feeding response.
Option 2: Live Feeding - Use with Caution
✅ Pros:
✔️ Natural hunting behavior engages the snake
✔️ Some ball pythons only recognize live prey initially
❌ Cons:
• Risk of serious injury—live rodents can bite and wound the snake
• Ethical concerns—live prey experiences distress before being eaten
• More difficult to manage and supervise each feeding
🟡 Live Feeding Tips:
• Supervise every feeding session—never leave live prey unattended.
• Use feeding tongs to safely place the rodent in the enclosure.
• If the snake does not strike within 15-20 minutes, remove the rodent.
🚨 WARNING: If your snake is not a strong feeder or has poor aim, live prey can cause bite wounds, eye injuries, or infections.
Option 3: Freshly Killed - A Middle Ground
✅ Pros:
✔️ Safer than live prey—eliminates risk of rodent bites
✔️ More natural scent and movement than frozen-thawed
✔️ Easier transition for snakes previously on live prey
❌ Cons:
• Requires immediate feeding after dispatching the prey
• Less convenient than frozen-thawed
• Some owners may feel uncomfortable euthanizing rodents
🟢 How to Offer Freshly Killed Prey:
• The rodent should be recently euthanized (not stiff or cold).
• Use tongs to simulate movement to encourage a feeding response.
4. Common Feeding Problems & Solutions
❌ Refusal to Eat?
✅ Try these solutions:
• Ensure proper enclosure temps (warm side: 88-92°F, cool side: 75-80°F).
• Feed at night—ball pythons are nocturnal hunters.
• Try a different feeding method (ex: scenting F/T prey, braining the rodent).
• If the snake is in shed, wait until shedding is complete.
• Reduce stress by providing more hides and avoiding excessive handling.
🚨 If a healthy adult ball python refuses food for multiple weeks but maintains body weight, it is normal. Ball pythons can go on seasonal fasting periods without harm.
Final Thoughts
The safest and most convenient feeding method is frozen-thawed, but some ball pythons may require live or freshly killed prey. Regardless of the method, always prioritize your snake’s safety by monitoring feedings and ensuring prey is the right size. With proper feeding habits, your ball python will stay healthy, grow properly, and thrive in captivity!