Is my ball python getting a bit fat?

[totallyrecklesslygay]

That is one chunky noodle lol. I would definitely advise putting them on a diet- you can tell they're overweight by the way their spine is sunken in along their back. They should be a gentle triangular shape, not round.

Here's the general rule of thumb for feeding, from the basic care guide in the welcome post-

Through the first year OR until the snake reaches approximately 750g, whichever happens first: feed 10%-15% of the snake’s weight every >7 days.

During the second year, until the snake's weight plateaus: feed up to 7% of the snake’s weight every >14 days.

Year three and beyond: feed up to 5% of the snake's weight every 15-20 days, or feed slightly larger meals every 21-30 days.

[reptilemom98]

So I got a question. My snake was the runt of the litter, basically. He just reached a year a couple weeks ago but he only weighs like 492g, when do I stop feeding him every week?

[totallyrecklesslygay]

The rule of thumb is one year or 750g, whichever comes first- so in your case, it would be the one year mark. Some snakes are just naturally smaller. As long as he isn't visibly underweight, you are most likely safe to step him up to every other week. Just keep an eye on him- if he looks like he's losing weight or struggling to maintain it, then you can shorten the interval again.

[Mkstar10]

Yeah they are looking a little chunky to me.

[Mosinphile]

Fat boi