How Big Rats Will Get For a Ball Python
To find out how big your ball python will get, measure them and see how much they weigh. Most ball pythons are around 20 to 27 inches long and should be able to handle a live adult mouse once every ten days. Depending on their age and temperament, a male or female ball python may require one or two adult mice, while a female may be able to handle up to three rats.
As ball pythons mature, their size will increase slowly. A juvenile ball will be satisfied with a single small mouse every two weeks, while an adult ball will need two or three adult mice every one to two months. Feeding schedules should be set based on your pet’s habits and needs. A feeding schedule that is consistent for both a male and female is ideal.
If you want to make feeding an easy process, you must learn to pick a rat that is around five percent smaller than your snake’s widest part. Always check the rat for any parasites or injuries before feeding it to your ball python. To feed your snake, lift it up by the tail and place it in front of its head. Be sure to avoid dropping it, as this could lead to unintended behavioral problems.
You can also feed your ball python live or frozen rodents. Mice and rats can be purchased at pet stores or through distributors of pet food. However, you must remember that live rodents carry parasites and may cause severe pain and stress to your ball python.