Problem Feeder

[bananasama]

Well, I kinda figured I would eventually run into this, but I am having trouble getting my female Dumerils boa to eat. Picked her up about two weeks ago, she is five months old and the previous owner had her on f/t mice. I tried to feed her once at 8 days and just again last night, same size mouse, same supplier (rodentpro). Now I had originally had her on Aspen bedding, but after talking with the breeder she used to be on paper towels, so I have removed the aspen and put paper towels in. Heat, humidity are all where they should be, and there are plenty of places for her to hide.

Basically, I just want a list of strategies that have worked particularly well for people, especially those of you with Dums. I have tried a couple things, and I am going through a list of other things to try, but I figure I might have missed something.

[AGActaeonia]

Strategies are a dime a dozen.

I've a simple, fool-proof and well-advised suggestion to your dilemma.

Wait.

Offer food once weekly. Leave her and anything about her enclosure alone. Leave her in a quiet space away from distractions like constant foot-traffic or other household pets.

She's young. Give her some more time to acclimate.

[bananasama]

Ok. She is in a pretty decent spot, there isn't hardly any traffic going past and I don't have any other pets that could disturb her. Should I just keep a close eye on her weight and not worry about it unless she starts dropping significantly? Thanks!

[bananasama]

And I do know that I haven't really gone through enough time yet... I just know Dums have a reputation when they are young for being difficult, so I am going through what is more than likely just premature stress.

[AGActaeonia]

If you didn't worry, I'd have had something much different to say, rest assured.

Keep an eye on her weight, monitor her temperatures. It's all you can do. Two weeks is nothing for a Boa that young. My oldest doesn't eat that often in summer.

You're fine for now.

[SUAD]

Don't get stressed, it's REALLY common for Dums to get a little quirky about their feeding...though I've never really had problems with my juvies. I have more issues with the adults, to be honest...at any rate, just relax, they'll come around.

[preston897]

when i was switching my dumerils from mice to rats she wouldnt eat for 2 months. all i offered was the rats. when they get hungry enough they will eat. and to be honest with you i would put the aspen back in the cage. or even cypress mulch. thats what i use. they like to go into their hid and bury themselves.

[bananasama]

She actually just took food last night, so no worries! And thanks everyone

[SUAD]

Congrats! I'm glad she started eating for you, that's great. Dums are definitely "patience" snakes when it comes to feeding, but it's always worth it, in my opinion.