When should I take my snake to the vet?

Like all pets, snakes should be examined at least annually, and a fecal examination, looking for parasites, should be part of every examination.

How often should you take a ball python to the vet?

On top of that my general rule is to take any new snake to the vets within the 1st week of getting them and then once a year for a yearly check up regardless of whether their not well or not.

How often should you take a reptile to the vet?

A number of reptile veterinarians actually recommend checkups at least twice a year. There are two reasons for this: first, since most pets including reptiles do not live as long as people, getting a checkup only once a year is like you going to your doctor every 5-10 years.

How do you go to the vet with a snake?

How do I know if my snake is in distress?

Signs You Should Take Your Snake to a Vet | Pet Snakes

What does a sick snake look like?

Healthy snakes have smooth, shiny scales. Lesions, scabs, swelling, and lumps can all be signs of sickness. If you notice your pet has small, brown or red dots, your serpent may have mites.

How do you know if a snake is in pain?

Behavioural signs of pain in reptiles

The British Small Animal Veterinary Association has also documented general signs of pain in reptiles including anorexia, immobility, abnormal posture/locomotion, dull colouration, and increase in aggression (Brown and Pizzi, 2012).

Do snakes need regular vet checkups?

Like all pets, snakes should be examined at least annually, and a fecal examination, looking for parasites, should be part of every examination.

Why do they put snakes in bags?

The best way to transport snakes is in a snake sack, also called a snake bag. A bag holds the snake comfortably, and keeps it from squirming around. With no flat or hard surfaces, the snake really can't push off and gain any leverage. A bag is definitely the easiest way to hold a snake.

Do reptiles need to go to the vet?

Many reptile owners are surprised to learn that all pets, including their reptiles, need an initial physical examination by a reptile veterinarian and at least an annual checkup.

What does Brumation mean?

Definition of brumation

: a state or condition of sluggishness, inactivity, or torpor exhibited by reptiles (such as snakes or lizards) during winter or extended periods of low temperature This subterranean torpor is not a true hibernation … but a cold-blooded version of slowing down called brumation. —

What are the scientist who study snakes called?

A herpetologist is someone who studies reptiles and amphibians.

How much does it cost to take your ball python to the vet?

On top of your cage supplies and initial food and substrate, you should factor in the cost for your first vet visit. Expect to pay $45 to $75 to see an exotics vet.

How cold can a ball python get before it dies?

What Temperature Is Too Cold for Ball Pythons? The absolute coldest temperature that any snake can survive in is 65°F. But since the ideal cool-down temperature for a ball python is 75°F, anything that is colder than that can cause your snake to become too cold and his body will start to shut down.

Do pet snakes recognize their owners?

Snakes don't have great memory or sight, so won't recognise the look of their owner. They only have a good memory for smells as they rely on smell to locate prey in the wild.

How long should you wait to hold your snake after getting it?

Leave your new pet snake alone for at least seven days since the transport to its new home is very stressful. After that, feed your snake its first meal. To ensure that your snake doesn't regurgitate its meal due to stress, wait for another two days before you finally handle your new snake.

Can you hold a snake too much?

When you handle your snake too much, you risk stressing them too much and, instead of building a bond between you, you will make them scared of you and of being handled by you. Too much stress can also lead to your snake's immune system being compromised, which could lead to health issues later on in their life.

Why is my snake rubbing its face?

Exploring New Things In the Enclosure

When your ball python explores its enclosure, it will use its nose and face to feel and explore new things. It's not uncommon for these snakes to do face rub when they feel a little stressed.

Do reptiles need vaccines?

Importance of Veterinary Care

Even though no vaccinations are required for reptiles, an annual health check can help make sure that your pet is well nourished and free from diseases and parasites.

What's the safest snake to have as a pet?

Corn Snake

One number one choice for the best snake pet is the corn snake. Of the bunch, corn snakes are considered the most docile and gentle. They are also known for being easy to handle and easy to feed.

Can you neuter a snake?

Yes, technically it is possible to neuter a male or female snake, though these surgeries are more commonly performed on lizards. Male snakes have two hemipenes, which are copulatory organs.

What does a dehydrated snake look like?

A dehydrated ball python will have wrinkly skin, creasing eyes, constipation, and a dry mouth. A stuck shed may also occur due to inadequate moisture and enough fluids in the body. Mist your ball python lightly every day and provide drinking water to fix dehydration in your pet snake.

Should you bathe a ball python?

Shedding. Shedding doesn't always go according to plan and your ball python is going to shed every few weeks. If the skin doesn't come off easily, then a bath can help your pet rehydrate and help to remove the skin naturally. The most common reason why your pet may not complete its shed is low humidity levels.