Fish fillets staple diet?

[Starling96]

I wondering if I use different kinds of fish is that all I could feed my snake?

[RdubSnider]

Not sure. I feed mice only. But with fish only I've heard off people running into trouble. Not sure all the fish that are bad but I understand there are many that'll get Your snakes sick. Plus I think you'd still have to offer supplement

[mb90078]

Assuming it's safe fish, it could make up the majority of the diet, but it would be best if you either add supplements or feed a more complete meal on occasion (pinkies, whole fish, etc) to provide full nutrition.

[Didymus20X6]

1. The Thiaminase issue. Certain species of fish are high in thiaminase, an enzyme that can cause Vitamin B deficiency in snakes. And according to some reports I've read, supplements won't do enough to counteract thiaminase effects. You'll want to avoid those particular species, or at the very least, use them minimally.

2. Some fish are high in dangerous chemicals, like pesticides and mercury. Avoid these as well. If it's not safe for human consumption, it's not safe for reptiles (and just because the store sells it, don't assume it's safe for humans).

3. Filets have no bones. Snakes need calcium in their diets. This can be remedied with a supplement that provides calcium and Vitamin D.

4. I am of the opinion that since they eat a somewhat balanced diet in the wild, a balanced diet in captivity is also necessary. However, due to pragmatics, you might be in the same boat I'm in: having to settle for what you can get locally. If fish filets is all you can get, then make the best of them. Right now, I feed Little Dude mostly tilapia, and Scarlett mostly nightcrawlers. I occasionally snag a wild frog or two for a treat, but I can't get rodents anywhere within 100 miles of here. So fish and worms is pretty much it. I use calcium supplements, since neither food provides much naturally.

5. I've read elsewhere that tilapia and genuine Alaskan salmon are good choices for snakes.

[RedSidedSPR]

That abouts sums up what i was gonna say... I'd feed other things too... worms, etc.

[Starling96]

yea ill try other stuff ut i keep ribbons on accasion and the ones i get are usually picky.
i know about Thiaminase and ill try other things but thats usually all they take

[snakeman]

Once they are on pinks I never feed anything else.fish are too risky in my opinion.

[Starling96]

Yea
I would rather have mine on mice due to healthier diet and ease lol
I have a ribbon that could eat hoppers and one that can take pinks
do you guys have any feeding tips?

[RdubSnider]

Start with x's pinkies or parts scented with there favorite meal

[Starling96]

Thanks!