4 Snake Feeding Basics You Should Know

Today, approximately 4,000 species of snakes inhabit every continent except Antarctica. Because snakes have long been used as a subject of fear, people tend to keep their distance.

However, a few people often develop a fondness for these creatures of the night, respectfully admiring their abilities and habits. You might be one of these few, although you might still be afraid to approach them.

If you’re starting to be interested in snakes, then you might be wondering what things you need to learn about them to be more comfortable around them. To learn more about snake feeding basics, keep reading to learn what you need to learn.

1. Understand the Types of Snake Food

Snakes primarily feed on live animals or frozen food. Live food, such as mice and rats, is ideal for pet snakes, providing them with the necessary nutrition.

Frozen food such as mice, frogs, and fish can provide a much-needed nutrition boost but should only be fed if live food is impossible. Find your options for frozen rat pups for purchase near you.

Certain species of snakes also may require the occasional treat of chicken, eggs, or insects. It’s important to research the specific diet requirements of the snake species you are keeping and stick to that diet.

2. Learn How Frequent You Should Feed Your Snake

In general, the feeding frequency of your snake should correlate to its age and size, as well as the species. For instance, young or small snakes may need to be fed every three to five days, while larger, adult snakes may need to be fed every seven to ten days.

It is important to ensure the prey is the appropriate size for your snake and is not more than 1.5 times its width. Lastly, it is important to be diligent about removing all uneaten prey from the cage after each feeding to avoid the growth of dangerous bacteria and mold.

3. Consider Safety in Feeding Snakes

It is important to avoid feeding live food, as this can be dangerous to both the snake and you. Feeding is best done outside the snake’s enclosure, as a hungry snake may strike at its hands entering its habitat. Never offer food from outside sources, such as your kitchen, as this can be dangerous.

Always use snake-proof gloves, and never attempt to reach into a snake enclosure without ensuring that the snake is adequately secured. In this way, you can keep both you and your snake safe during feeding.

4. Optimize Your Snake’s Nutrition​

Snakes, like other animals, need to be provided with a balanced, nutritious diet to ensure optimal health and growth. Proper snake feeding basics should be followed to ensure your snake gets the nutrients it needs. It’s important to provide a variety of foods and to be aware of what new foods may contain that could be toxic to your snake.

For live food, inspect the prey and remove it if it is injured or diseased. Frozen prey should be thawed and warmed before feeding. If you choose to feed pre-killed prey, ensure it is fresh and not overly cold. Providing sunlight or using a reptile-specific light can promote proper digestion of food.

Learn The Basics of Snake Feeding

Snake feeding is key in ensuring the good health of your pet snake. When providing the best possible care, it’s important to learn the basics of proper snake nutrition.

Regular vet visits and the right diet can help keep your snake healthy and happy.

If you want more, be sure to check the rest of our site for the best advice.