How much should I feed my Ball Python by age?
Feed an adult Ball Python every 10–14 days, offering 1–2 small mice, depending on the snake's size.
Young Ball Pythons (up to 1 year old)
Young Ball Pythons grow rapidly and require more frequent feeding. Start with feeding every 5–7 days. Offer 1–2 pinky mice, which are small enough to be swallowed whole. Ensure the mouse is no larger than the widest part of the snake's head.
Measure the mouse's length to ensure it's appropriate. A pinky mouse should be about 2–3 inches long. As the snake grows, increase the size of the mouse to 3–4 inches long, but never larger than the snake's head.
- Feed every 5–7 days for young snakes.
- Offer 1–2 pinky mice per feeding.
- Mouse size should be 2–3 inches long for young snakes.
Adult Ball Pythons (1–5 years old)
Adults can go longer between feedings, every 10–14 days. Provide 1–2 small to medium-sized mice, depending on the snake's size. A mouse should be about 3–4 inches long.
Monitor the snake's weight and adjust the size of the food accordingly. If the snake is losing weight, increase the size of the mouse. If it's gaining too much weight, decrease the size or frequency of feedings.
- Feed every 10–14 days for adults.
- Offer 1–2 small to medium-sized mice per feeding.
- Mouse size should be 3–4 inches long for adults.
Senior Ball Pythons (over 5 years old)
Senior snakes may require less frequent feedings, every 14–21 days. The size of the mouse can be slightly larger, up to 4–5 inches long, but still not larger than the snake's head.
Adjust the feeding schedule based on the snake's activity level and weight. If the snake is less active, it may need fewer feedings. Always monitor the snake's weight and adjust as needed.
- Feed every 14–21 days for seniors.
- Offer 1–2 slightly larger mice per feeding.
- Mouse size should be 4–5 inches long for seniors.
Practical Feeding Tips
Always measure the food to ensure it's the right size. A mouse that's too large can cause health issues.
Transitioning to larger food should be done gradually. Start with a slightly larger mouse and increase the size over a few feedings.
Provide fresh water in a shallow dish at all times. The water should be changed daily to prevent bacterial growth.
Treats should be given sparingly, no more than once a week, and should be a small piece of fruit or a small treat designed for reptiles.
- Measure food to ensure appropriate size.
- Gradually transition to larger food.
- Change water daily.
- Give treats sparingly once a week.
Keep reading about Ball Python: Ball Python Environment: Nighttime environment · Ball Python Cost & Preparation: Setup checklist · Ball Python Enrichment & Play: Indoor enrichment for ball pythons · Ball Python Handling & Taming: Handling ball pythons
Related questions
How often should I feed my young Ball Python?
Feed young Ball Pythons every 5–7 days.
What size mouse should I feed my adult Ball Python?
Feed adult Ball Pythons 1–2 small to medium-sized mice, about 3–4 inches long.
How often should I feed my senior Ball Python?
Feed senior Ball Pythons every 14–21 days.
Not veterinary advice. This guide covers husbandry — housing, feeding, cleaning and handling. If your ball python is injured, off food unusually long, or behaving abnormally, contact a veterinarian.