Although they have a strong feeding response, live prey should not be used, and should absolutely never be left with the snake unsupervised for any amount of time. Boa constrictor ssp. Is generally a very hardy snake. Dysecdysis and retained eye caps are common when humidity levels are not kept high enough. Regurgitation of food, mouth rot and respiratory infections are common when proper temperatures are not maintained.
Common boas are very susceptible to mites and treatment is usually a long-term process.
It is VERY important to feed breeding females well and maintain optimum environmental conditions. They are bred in large numbers in captivity and are almost de rigueur in a well-rounded herp collection.