A boa that is constantly in the water bowl usually indicates the humidity is too low, the temperature is too high, or the boa has mites. This aids in shedding their skin, but usually occurs only when proper cage humidity is not being met. Young boas will often soak before or during a shed cycle. Disposable forms of water bowls, such as deli cups, are another option. Be sure to rinse thoroughly, and run the water bowl through your dishwasher monthly if possible. Be sure to scrub and rinse the bowl, using an antibacterial dish soap and hot water. Some boa constrictors will defecate or urinate in the water, which must be cleaned immediately if this occurs. Water must always be clean and should be changed as needed and the bowl cleaned. The humidity in the cage should be 60 to 70 percent use a hygrometer (humidity gauge) to track the percentage. This allows your boa a place to drink and helps provide the proper humidity for your boa. Never leave your boa unattended with live rodents.Ī water bowl is a necessity. Even if the boa does constrict its prey, the rodent may bite before it is killed. If your snake does not kill its prey (boas will not eat if they are not hungry or are kept under improper conditions), the rodent may bite or even kill your boa. Pre-killed rodents are always best, whether they are frozen/thawed or freshly killed, because live rodents may harm your boa. If you purchase one that is eating live rodents, it will often take frozen/thawed prey that is presented from a pair of tongs. Most boa constrictors available as pets will be eating frozen/thawed prey. Once boas near adulthood, they will thrive while being fed every 10 to 14 days. Excessive feeding may lead to regurgitation, improper growth, and even premature death. Boas 2 years old and younger should be fed one appropriately sized rodent every seven to 10 days. Be sure you buy your rodents from a good source to prevent disease and mites. They need no additional food or supplementation. Pet boa constrictors should be fed only quality mice or rats. An established boa will handle a meal resulting in a small bulge just fine.
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