Spaced out snake!

Question
Hi there, my corn snake is acting really odd. I've had him for about 6 years, so he's roughly that age and I've never had a problem with him. I'm sure the temperature, tank etc are ok for his size (about 5 1/2 ft) but lately he won't eat, he's interested in the mice that I put in, which aren't live, but he picks them up from the side then drops them and recoils back, without even trying to turn them around to eat! He hasn't eaten for about a month now, also he keeps stretching up the tank and just laying his neck against the glass. I've checked him over and he seems to be in pretty good health apart from seeming a bit vacant. Any ideas? Thanks for your help! :)

Answer
Hi Charmaine,
  Corn snakes can be kind of odd at times and have been known to go months without eating. Check his gums for mouth rot. Make sure the lip area is not sagging or drawn in any way and also make sure the inside of his mouth looks normal. Outside of that, I would not worry too much. I have had snakes got 4, 5, or 6 months without eating. Your snake is a good size, so I wouldn't start worrying for another month. A couple things you can try: 1. Try a small rat instead of a mouse. A small quail or a chick might also work. 2. increase your heat a little. Snakes seem to feed better when they are warm. 3. Leave the rat in overnight and see if he feeds, possibly in his hide.

Let my know if I can be of further help.

Kevin L. Ogle