My Boa Refuses to Eat.

Question
Okay I have had my red-tail boa for about a month and a half now and before she would eat no problem and now she refuses to eat her medium sized rat I dont know if it's because she has been handled in a while or she's depressed and refuses to eat.
So my question is why won't my snake eat the food I give her?

Thanks
Confused Red-tail boa snake owner.

Answer
Hi,

depending on how long she hasn't been feeding for could help decide what the problem is, especially since you haven't had her long.

Check the temperatures of your tank first. usually that the problem. the temperature should be around 82-84F.

more than likely it is just a shed coming on, in a few days time check her over snake see if her skin has dulled and her eyes have clouded over.

Mites can also put a snake off feeding. check for small peppery flecks in the snakes water bowl or on his skin. you can get a wet tissue and rub it down the snake's body to be sure. If it is mites they need to be treated by placing the snake on newspaper instead of whatever substrate they are currently on, cleaning the tank VERY thoroughly and treating the snake with an anti-mite spray.

other problems could be a form of infection, ie scale rot respiratory infection or something like septicemia. if your snake often lifts her head, has excess saliva or mucus in her mouth, blows bubbles or gargles when breathing, these are all signs of respiratory infection. if any are present you will need to take your snake to a vet to get treatment. respiratory infections usually occur due to low temperatures.

scale rot turns scales a brown color and makes them appear damaged and is usually found on the stomach scales. this is caused by excessive humidity in the tank and can be sorted by placing the snake on newspaper and keeping the tank clean and dry. the snake will eventually shed it out. if the problem gets worse, the snake will need to be taken to a vet to get some antibacterial treatment.

septicemia usually occurs when the snake's skin becomes damaged somehow and bacteria enter the wound but can also arise from a seriously unclean tank. septicemia will cause areas to become swollen and sore. in this case the snake needs to be taken to a vet asap to get an antibacterial injection like beatril.

to try encourage her to start feeding again, If you don't already use tongs and wiggle the mouse infront of your snake you could try that. this usually gets the snake's attention and they will be more keen to eat it.

you could try warming the mouse before attempting to feed your snake. to do this the best way is to get a small plastic tub and fill it about 2/3 full of boiling water. place the mouse on the top of the tub until it gets warm then try and tong feed your snake.DONT use a microwave, it will make the mouse explode and will cause a stinking mess =)

You can also try an alternative food, this could be a large chick or similar.

Some snakes are really temperamental feeders and will randomly stop eating for a while. I wouldn't get overly concerned about your snake unless it goes without food for over 10 weeks.

Thanks for your question and hope your snake starts feeding again,

Andy