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Chelsea

Corn snake who’s refusing to eat

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Cornelius
Others, Snake
10 years 2 months, Unknown
Issue details
Main concern
Others
Duration
1 month(s)
Ongoing
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Dr. Deliman
Dr.Tail Vet

When a corn snake refuses to eat, it can understandably be a cause for concern. However, there are several reasons why this might occur, and it's not uncommon for snakes to experience periods of fasting. This can happen particularly during shedding or if the environmental conditions aren't quite right.

To start, it's important to check the temperature and humidity levels in your snake's enclosure. Corn snakes need specific temperature gradients to digest their food properly. Ideally, the warm side of the enclosure should be around 85°F, while the cool side should be about 75°F. Additionally, maintaining humidity levels between 40-50% is crucial.

Another factor to consider is whether your snake is preparing to shed. Snakes often refuse food when they are about to shed their skin. You can look for signs such as dull skin or blue eyes, which indicate an upcoming shed.

Stress is another common reason for a snake to refuse food. Ensure that the enclosure is situated in a quiet area and that your snake has plenty of hiding spots to feel secure and comfortable.

If your snake has been fasting for a month and still shows no interest in eating, you might want to try offering different types of prey or presenting the food differently. For instance, you could warm the prey slightly or move it to simulate live prey, which might entice your snake to eat.

It's also important to monitor your snake's weight and overall health. If you notice any weight loss or other signs of illness, it would be wise to consult a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions. Thank you.