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My Ball Python has not eaten in about a month and she has lost a lot of weight and refuses to drink water and she is extremely weak. She does have a vet appointment scheduled but I'm just hoping to maybe find some answers before then. Before this past month she was completely normal, eating normal and is usually pretty active for a snake. Just wondering if there's something I can do?

My Ball Python has not eaten in about a month and she has lost a lot of weight and refuses to drink water and she is extremely weak. She does have a vet appointment scheduled but I'm just hoping to maybe find some answers before then. Before this past month she was completely normal, eating normal and is usually pretty active for a snake. Just wondering if there's something I can do?

Updated On February 14th, 2017

Pet's info: Exotic | Unknown - Exotic | Female

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

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Check the tank temps. If it is too cold, she won't eat. Aim for the mid 70s on the cool side of her enclosure up to the mid/high 80s on warmer side. Feed her at night. BPs are nocturnal and typically feed at night. Create a hide and cover it completely with her and the prey inside. Make sure whatever prey you offer is the appropriate size and not too cold (especially if you feed frozen prey). Other ways to get her to eat would be to offer different colored mice. Tap a thawed, warmed or freshly killed mouse on her nose to elicit a strike. Removing her from the enclosure, placing the prey in, then returning her about 30 minutes later may also get her to eat. Soak her in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte a couple times daily to treat or prevent mild dehydration. Do not force feed her if she is dehydrated or without the advice of your veterinarian.

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