In captivity, the gold standard is frozen/thawed rodents (mice or rats). These cover all of a ball python's nutritional needs when fed at the right size and frequency. Ball pythons do not require and should not receive supplements, fruits, vegetables, or any non-prey foods.
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The only reason to feed live prey is when a snake completely refuses to eat otherwise. Even then, the recommendation is to provide 1-day old pinkies (newborn rodents) that cannot hurt the snake, then offer again the thawed, previously frozen prey. What Can Snakes Not Eat?
Proponents of frozen and thawed prey items say that you can more easily source food for your snake (or snakes!), even when live isnt available. Then, because they typically purchase several at a time, they have it ready when feeding time hits.
Allow your prey/rat to thaw in the refrigerator for five hours (mice require only two) before serving it as a meal. Another option is to place the frozen rodents in your refrigerator overnight for safe thawing.
Converting a Snake from Live to Frozen Prey. My snake will only eat live or freshly killed prey. This is a common complaint among keepers who want to enjoy the convenience of frozen and thawed rats as a food source.
Thawing the Prey: Remove a frozen rodent from the freezer. Place it in a plastic bag and let it thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Never use a microwave, as it can cook the inside and cause dangerous hot spots that can harm your snake.
Frozen, thawed prey are usually used in zoos; thawing under refrigeration is recommended.Most snake species should be fed every 12 weeks. Some large, less active snakes may typically go 6 weeks between feedings. Snakes should be force-fed only if necessary.
