Ball Python Prey Size Chart & Calculator
The right prey size is the single most important feeding decision for a ball python. Prey should be roughly 10-15% of the snake's body weight, or about the width of the snake's widest point. The chart below matches each weight class to a standard frozen prey item.
| 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
What size prey should a ball python eat?
Prey should weigh roughly 10-15% of the ball python's body weight, or be about as wide as the thickest part of the snake. Use the chart and calculator above to match your snake's exact weight.
What happens if the prey is too big?
Oversized prey can cause regurgitation, stress or refusal. When in doubt, size down — a slightly small meal is far safer than one that's too large.
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.