Ball Python Feeding Schedule by Age & Weight
How often a ball python eats changes dramatically as it grows — frequent small meals as a hatchling, stretching to once every few weeks as an adult. The schedule below shows frequency by weight class.
| Snake weight | Prey item | Prey weight | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| under 100 g | Pinky mouse or rat pinky (2–8g) | ~5 g | every 7 days |
| 100–250 g | Fuzzy mouse or rat fuzzy (8–20g) | ~15 g | every 7 days |
| 250–500 g | Hopper mouse or rat pup (20–45g) | ~30 g | every 7 days |
| 500–900 g | Adult mouse or weaned rat (30–60g) | ~50 g | every 10 days |
| 900–1,500 g | Small rat (45–80g) | ~65 g | every 14 days |
| 1,500–2,500 g | Medium rat (80–150g) | ~110 g | every 18 days |
| 2,500 g and up | Large rat (150–250g) | ~200 g | every 21 days |
What to feed
Ball pythons are strict carnivores that eat whole prey — appropriately-sized rats or mice. Prey should be roughly 10-15% of the snake's body weight, or about the width of the snake's widest point. Frozen-thawed prey is strongly recommended over live, which can bite and injure the snake.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I feed a ball python?
It depends on age and weight — hatchlings eat every 5-7 days, while adults may eat only every 2-3 weeks. See the schedule above for the frequency at each weight class.
Is it normal for my snake to skip meals?
For many snakes, yes — especially in cooler months or around shedding. A healthy adult can safely fast for a while. Monitor weight and husbandry before worrying.
How often should I feed a ball python?
Hatchlings every 5-7 days, juveniles every 7-10 days, and adults only every 14-21 days. Frequency slows as the snake grows — overfeeding an adult weekly is the most common husbandry mistake.