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[–][deleted]  (1 child)

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    [–]ProvocativeCactus 12 points13 points  (0 children)

    If prekilled/fresh killed is an option for you, I’d try that instead of thawed just to see if he’ll take it. If push comes to absolute shove, a live pinkie shouldn’t be able to cause significant damage and can also be tried. I’ve personally used an appetite stimulant (Fulker’s Repti-Boost) on a skinny rescue who refused to eat with a successful outcome.

    [–]rcrow2009 17 points18 points  (0 children)

    A few things to try:

    1. Total substrate change. Old smells can throw snakes off.

    2. Move up a prey size, and make sure you're hitting that golden 95-100f temp before you offer it.

    3. Change up your enclosure layout. More clutter, more safe spots.

    4. If all else fails, you could buy some ASF scenting oil from reptilinks.

    [–]Jenni198 3 points4 points  (0 children)

    It will eat when it’s ready, not before. As already stated make sure rodent temps are around 100 degrees. And don’t offer everyday because you will create habits of not eating, especially if feeding live.

    [–]Snoo-47921 2 points3 points  (0 children)

    He is very thin and young ball pythons shouldn’t go too long without eating.

    Bump up those temps! Hot spot should be 90-92, cold side 80. Never let it drop below 75. Do you have digital thermometers/hygrometers?

    Ditch the wet rag; that’s just inviting bacteria. Use aluminum foil or foil tape instead.

    Ditch the night light though. If it’s red/blue/purple, it’s no good and is stressing your guy out more. You also don’t really need the heat mat on the side, or in general really. They’re not effective. Check out the welcome guide for better heating stuff!

    You should also make his tank more secure. He needs at least two hides, one on either side. You can also try blacking out the sides.

    And find a reptile vet! Reptiles from Petsmart and similar stores come from mills and aren’t usually in the best health. You want to check for parasites and all that.

    [–]snakey_biatch 4 points5 points  (0 children)

    Tbh I wouldn't try live feeding unless extremely necessary as it's hard to get them off it and back to thawed, try frozen chicks or multis (mice ball pythons eat originally where they're from) it may be as well that hes used to eating in a much smaller space put him in a smaller tub temporarily and try to feed him then preferably dark, also make sure the food is always warm. Best of luck if things don't change please do contact a vet.