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Veterinarian Practice & General Health Issues Anything to do with veterinarians, health issues, pathogens, hygiene, or sanitation. |
07-11-2013, 07:59 PM
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#1
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I need help from fellow ball python owners please
I recently purchased a super pastel Male from a local breeder. I was told his DOB was june 3rd 2013. I bought him on june 31st. I was told he was feeding on live hoppers every 5-7 days. since bringing him home he has not eaten. I house my balls in glass vivariums because i do not agree with rack systems, i keep the temperatures and humidity correct and he has multiple hides on each end of the tank. I know they need time to acclimate before feeding but the problem is he is Extremely skinny. At over a month old he is only 58 grams which seems alarming to me when i know hatchlings weigh more. He has refused my first 3 attempts, live hopper and pinky each terrified him, as well as a f/t fuzzy left overnight all with no success, each attempt 3 days apart. I know i should have waited longer in between but as i said his weight seemed alarming to me and i have never had a problem feeder so my worry got the best of me. I don't know what to do. Am i worrying to soon? He shows no sign of illness or RI other than how skinny he is. He seems very active otherwise and explores his tank but i really want him to start eating and I don't want to assist feed especially if I've already stressed him out. Any and all advice is appreciated- thank you.
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07-11-2013, 08:13 PM
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#2
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He sounds like he is stressed from the transition and not yet acclimated. I know you said you don't agree with tubs, but I would suggest trying it if that's what the breeder was using; at least until he is at a healthy weight. They need quite a bit of security and cover at that age. He's not exploring his cage, he may be trying to escape for a more secure place to hide. The extra activity may be assisting in his weight loss.
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07-11-2013, 08:20 PM
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#3
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Focal
He sounds like he is stressed from the transition and not yet acclimated. I know you said you don't agree with tubs, but I would suggest trying it if that's what the breeder was using; at least until he is at a healthy weight. They need quite a bit of security and cover at that age. He's not exploring his cage, he may be trying to escape for a more secure place to hide. The extra activity may be assisting in his weight loss.
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I would think that changing his surroundings again may stress him out more? I know they need to feel secure i have crumpled newspaper in his tank along with lots of hides and 3/4ths of the sides are covered.But i may try your advice what size tub would you suggest?
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07-11-2013, 08:29 PM
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#4
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One last thing - i am not a breeder so i have not owned enough BP's and as i said never had a problem feeder. i know they have a picky eater rep but i would be astounded if he simply let himself starve to death, but is this a possible reality ? Id like to think he will Eventually take prey..
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07-11-2013, 08:47 PM
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#5
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I would contact the breeder and find out what he/she was using. If not, I would try a 6qt shoebox on paper towel or newspaper. I have better luck using hides that fit them snugly.
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07-11-2013, 08:53 PM
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#6
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Focal
I would contact the breeder and find out what he/she was using. If not, I would try a 6qt shoebox on paper towel or newspaper. I have better luck using hides that fit them snugly.
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I will switch him into one asap, i was concerned that since i started him with one set up that it was too late to switch but i have no choice since hes not eating.
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07-11-2013, 08:58 PM
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#7
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Give him a few days of privacy after switching him too. I leave the rodent on the opposite side of the cage and leave it in overnight. He will find it if he wants it.
I just double checked the DOB and I think you are still within a safe window, especially if he has already had meals. Some of my hatchlings won't eat until nearly six weeks after emerging. Sometimes longer.
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07-11-2013, 09:09 PM
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#8
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Focal
Give him a few days of privacy after switching him too. I leave the rodent on the opposite side of the cage and leave it in overnight. He will find it if he wants it.
I just double checked the DOB and I think you are still within a safe window, especially if he has already had meals. Some of my hatchlings won't eat until nearly six weeks after emerging. Sometimes longer.
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The rodent you leave over night is this live ft or fresh killed? I dont know this breeder well so while i have no reason to doubt him theres always the possibility he has never taken food either, he was listed for sale as 'clearence' I appreciate your help and quick responses.
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07-12-2013, 08:17 AM
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#9
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No problem. If he is in need of food, I would try live and a rodent small enough not to cause harm to the snake.
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07-13-2013, 09:38 PM
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#10
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I have switched him to a small tub with a hide and water bowl. It still seems like he is trying awfuly hard to escape and is not comfortable even though the tub is very small. I have the sides covered as well.
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