Sorry to hear that. My friend yanked his Ball Python off my leg and I still have a mark to prove it. Ive had my ball python for about 6 months. Glad to hear you’re ok! ... Make sure that your snake also does not look ill or hurt in any way. When they attack their prey, they bite into them and constrict to kill. If you are bitten, it will definitely hurt a little bit (we’re not going to lie to you). Ball python bites are very rarely serious, and taking sensible action will minimize the already-low damage. Log In Sign Up. Remember – snakes can sense if you’re feeling hesitant or scared to pick them up. For instance, a defensive bite is very shallow and painless. However, even before your ball python will strike a bite, it might have given you some warning signs which you didn’t notice. But, a bite can quickly become very painful if you don’t take the proper steps when it happens. , i read this article when the snake was biting my stomach because i had him there and he was sleeping but i wanted to move so i tried to set him down and he bit me. The maximum damage a ball python bite can do to you is to break your skin tissue and slight bleeding. This treatment recommendation is based on experience alone, and if you’re worried about potential harm to your body from a snake bite or any other injury, consult a doctor. And I agree – the bite isn’t that bad for most. When handling your snake, be sure you’re confident. We are beginners as well. I’m not going to lie i geeked. Your email address will not be published. It is also wise to avoid handling your pet ball python at night when they’re typically most active and alert. Wow — 38 years old? Try feeding him in a few hours, or maybe even a day later. More often than not, they will only make this pose when getting ready to eat. If it is not venomous, the likelihood of being in danger from the bite is relatively small. Today I am going to talk to you about what you should do if you get bit by a Ball Python, and what you should do after. One of the most noteworthy emotions a Ball Python can have is the strike position. While their teeth are quite sharp, ball pythons don’t have strong jaws. If youre having difficulty getting a ball pytho… Snake Bite? First things first, Ball Python bites from captive snakes rarely ever occur. Do not wipe off these surfaces — the leftover residue helps keeps the mites away. Being bit by a ball python is just about as rare as clean dishes in a college dorm kitchen. This article was really helpful. I then fed him another rat pup and he took it immediately! Remember that ball python bites are not only inconsequential in most cases, but they’re also relatively rare, as these are typically shy snakes who don’t bite often. If you notice these signs, simply return your snake to his enclosure so he can feel secure again. Yes, it hurts! In most cases, the wound should heal up in a matter of days. well really my cuzin got bit by his ball python and he said that it doesnt hurt all u got to do to let go is put something in front of it and it will let go but if u pull back it will put its teeth deeper and that might hurt but after that he just put alcohol n he was good to … If you own a Ball Python, you should take heed to a few steps so you know what to do if a bite occurs. If a bite happens and you are concerned it could become infected, you should absolutely consult a doctor for treatment. Therefore, a defensive bite will likely feel like a few pinpricks and will hurt less than an insect sting. Just bought a Ball Python for my 17 yr old grandson. I will however point out that if you do JUST go in EXPECT to be bit, not that you will but expect it. However, the initial surprise from your snake’s attack may cause you more panic. They do not have venom. You might have a few tiny drops of blood if you ever get bit. Ball Python Bite 101: Causes, Treatment & Do They Hurt. Two Most Common Times Ball Python Bites Occur. But it is not life-threatening nor … So, when a bite occurs, it can shake some people up and cause them to panic. . It is advised to provide a substrate in your snake s tank so that when it is time to clean, it will be easy and not much of a hassle. She latched on for a good amount of time but staying calm she eventually finally let go. thanks for the advice! It's like getting poked with a very tiny needles. I have been caring for a beautiful ball python for about 3 months now. If you’re dealing with a latched on Ball Python there are three things you can try: Just to clarify, you should visit a doctor to get recommended medical advice. sorry to hear that. Now with this bite thing, im worried I won’t make a good snake mom for her. poured a cup of cold water on him and he came right off! Hello would that be the same for a Ghost Ball Python? Normally for about 2ish weeks (depends on where I bought it, I judge the time based on how ell the sore is maintined as far as cleanlyness and animal care- poor thing could have had a rough life until getting to you) After said time- before taking it out, I like to give it a few days with me just touching it, and allowing my hand in its home. Banana Ball Pythons are a great beginner snake, and are a beautiful species/morph. omg this blog is so helpful! Along with your snake s needs for a terrarium and a heated one, they will need a substrate at the bottom of their enclosure. Your snake may feel threatened, causing him to bite in self-defense. I don’t understand what’s wrong. Ball Python bites typically don’t hurt at all. 0 0. margarett. At the end of the day, it could be any number of reasons. This more likely happens if they are young, inexperienced, and happen to be quite hungry. A lot. Ball pythons are relatively small snakes, and the wounds their bites cause are usually very minor. Still have the scar. Handling Your Ball Pythons: Basics, Tips, and Tricks. Oh no! My daughter has had her ball for 4 years he was a baby when she got him. On the other hand, many non-venomous snakes have teeth, including Ball Pythons. The bite doesn’t hurt. He latched onto my knuckle and then let go about 10 seconds later. So, if a bite occurs, it’s still important to wash and treat the wound — especially if their has been a puncture and blood is drawn. If you remain motionless, chances are, the snake will bite and release you very quickly. They may have also sensed some prey around, too. How big is your enclosure? There are nearly double the amount of teeth on the top row vs. the bottom row in the mouth of a Ball Python. I still trust him, just wondering how he mistook my scent for his prey. However, there are occasions in which they may bite you. However, a hungry bite can be quite hurting, especially if you try to yank the ball python away. The good news is that Ball Python bites are generally harmless and otherwise painless. Maybe your snake contracted some kind of mites when he escaped. Happy Serpent is not a medical resource. It's painful, but nothing a little hydrogen peroxide, and neosporin can handle. hey there ! Some ball pythons may try to hide when handled and occasionally there are ones that may even bite due to excessive fear. Seriously though, Ball Python bites are nothing to worry about when you treat them properly. Ball Pythons, and many other snakes for that matter, tend to strike during these times. Since snakes ‘inject’ their deadly liquids, they are technically ‘venomous’. Should I be worried about my snake? As a baby, a bite does not hurt. —- I cant say for sure as im not a vet nor a “keeper” I just really like my snakes- I tend to treat them more like dogs- I believe Snakes can build a bond with their owners (I might be crazy though) but this seems to work for me and i can count on one hand how many times I got bit. If you see your Ball Python coiled up like this, avoid handling and try again later. A ball python bite does not hurt. I also 2nd that being calm is key during a bite of any kind. Hi there! I was able to somehow stay calm and get it taken care of without causing further damage to me or any damage to the snake. Required fields are marked *. Sometimes, fresh snake skin can be sensitive, and they do not wish to be handled during this time. I’m just in shock because I’ve had snakes for awhile and never been bitten!! This isn’t the first attempt she has taken a swipe at me. She isn’t letting me handle her, she is striking at me and hissing (pushing the air out of her body). > Further Reading: Does a Ball Python Bite Hurt (and Why Would Your Pet Bite)? Turns out it’s time to up his feed size. - The Beta Pet. Hi there, sorry to hear about this situation! Just stay calm, be confidant. thanks for making this blog.such a great sharing.cheers! Your ball python likely got confused, bit your hand, and was stressed after that happened. Just picked up 2 ball pythons and the one bite me as soon as I picked it up. I am sharing answers to some of your most frequently asked questions!!!! We hope you’ve enjoyed this article and, hopefully, feel a little braver about your pet. Loves being handled and has never startled. A ball python that bites you defensively will barely nip you and release your skin immediately. Always support your ball python s body and avoid fast movements. First, if they are hanging out in their water bowl more than normal, they are preparing to shed. If the Ball Python bites you and latches on, DO NOT YANK it off. This helps with two things: Now, just how many teeth do Ball Pythons have? Ball Python teeth are angled backwards, so they can latch on to prey more easily. Ball Pythons will be come defensive during these times, too. Yes, ball pythons do bite. What can we do if all we have to do is walk by him? Even though they sound scary, venomous snake bites rarely end up being fatal. I have a 3.5foot cinnamon ball Python at home and the place we got her said she bites and I’ve never been bit by her. While their teeth are quite sharp, ball pythons don’t have strong jaws. It’s best to wait until a day or so after shedding to handle again. In fact, you shouldn’t be surprised if you never feel your pet’s teeth – even if he lives for decades. It’s pretty easy to tell when your Ball Python is getting ready to strike you. Fortunately, this is a relatively easy question to answer, as ball pythons (as well as most other snakes) only bite for one of two reasons: Bites that result from mistaken identities are quite easy to avoid. What To Do In Case Of A Ball Python Bite. Posted: (18 days ago) A ball python bite usually less harmful and not at all serious, but if the snake bites and latches then do not yank off the snake. Thanks! Start by ensuring that your hands never smell like potential prey when reaching into his enclosure. Don’t be scared afterwards just try not to make the same mistake. Snakes also become defensive around the times they are shedding. As a snake owner, you should expect this to happen. Defensive bites can be less predictable, but a snake’s body language will usually provide several warnings that a bite may be imminent. Panic can … With a snake bite, it should be soap and water. But don’t worry, it is usually not a big deal – especially for those who keep ball pythons. Your snake is probably in shock, because it’s never experienced anything like that in it’s life before. Doesn’t hurt, might leave a mark, probably wont bleed and the snake goes immediately back to exhibiting docile behavior. > Further Reading: The Ball Python Behavior (Common & Unusual) and Health. Glad to hear you’re ok, Ana! Rather, their poison is typically on the surface of some protrusion or area. Best of luck, and don’t lose hope in your Ball Python! So my question is…where did I go wrong here? Even though my first nip came courtesy of a species with slightly longer teeth (a carpet python), I still remember being shocked at how insignificant it was. Re: What does a bite from a ball python feel like? Pythons bite first and would attack a human in two ways: 1. Ball pythons will only bite on occasions they feel very threatened. I just got home and it’s feeding day so as usual I decided to feed her. Also, be sure to share any of your thoughts or experiences with ball python bites – as well as any questions you may have – in the comments below. The first time I saw her yawn, I about wet myself. Ball Pythons have 4 rows of teeth on the roof of their mouth, and 2 rows on the bottom part of their jaw. Keep up the good work. There are a few guidelines you should follow in order to not hurt the snake. Im glad the author replied. Just be confident, and you and your sister will get used to handling her in no time! When a bite occurs, you’ll feel a pressure and squeeze in the afflicted area. There’s no muscle debilitating side-effects that will happen, and you will certainly not have to rush to the hospital for anti-venom. Just go right in and pick him up. Finish up by covering the wound with a bandage. Now both of her lights went out while I was gone as well but where I live the humidity is perfect but her heat is a little low. This helped a lot because my sister has a ball python and this is her first time handling it and we already have done lots of research on picking them up but we needed to be aware about the snake biting and this helped a lot and we will be very careful and follow these instructions/rules. I wish your daughter many happy years of ownership! But not without warning. And I had one of my other friends who owns a few snakes, feed my snake while I was absent. Well I got a phone call from my friend saying she would only eat one mouse out of the 3. User account menu. You should wait until the snake has had a bowel movement or the lump from feeding is no longer visible before handling again. I feed her in a drawer and I put the drawer by her enclosure and she went in on her own. It’s more panic-inducing than anything else. Below, you’ll see the exactly when you should avoid handling your Ball Python to prevent biting or striking. If a snake looks like it is going to strike, it is best to not handle it. When my big female ball's tooth scraped my finger, it kind of hurt because I pulled back, but nothing serious. He lives in Atlanta, Georgia with his beautiful wife and spoiled-rotten Rottweiler. However right now he has a bit of a case of scale rot we are treating. Couple points from a medical perspective: Second, if you see their eyes are turning blue, this is a dead giveaway that the are about to shed. Handle your Ball Python regularly so they become familiar with human touch and your personal smells, Feed you Ball Python on a regimented schedule, Keep an eye out for warning signs and snake body language that indicate it’s going to bite you, Make sure whoever is handling the Ball Python is confident and calm, If someone is nervous and jumpy, do not let them handle the snake. That means they squeeze their prey. What to do if it happens. Only about six people every year die from complications resulting from a venomous snake bite. I think this was an eye opener to really pay attention and be respectful to their mood and body language. 3. Now, there are some times when you should be more wary of disturbing Ball Pythons, as these are the most common times bites occur. This is normal. It’s very uncommon that these snakes will bite you or someone handling them. So I was gone for 2 weeks on a trip to California. Could he have gotten hurt? The bite of a ball python should really not hurt very much, although it can of course cause bleeding if it pierces through the skin. I screamed bloody murder it was the pressure and him moving his jaw around that hurt the most. Ball pythons are not venomous and don’t have fangs, so a bite may not be as severe as other snake bites. A couple of days ago, she was very lethargic, litterally laying sagged over my arms. It is absolutely essential to use paper substrate until you are certain that the mites are gone for good because it helps you spot any mites that may have survived the initial treatment. Note that these instructions all assume that the bite was located on your hand or arm (the most common places bites occur). <3. Some of the best examples would include: All of these things hurt much worse than a typical ball python bite. Ive been trying to interact with her frequently so she gets used to me. Ball Pythons do not have fangs, and are not venomous at all. I’d suggest not bringing her outside for a while, and when you do, make sure she’s been fed recently. Pour a mild first-aid disinfectant over the wound, allow it to dry, and then add a triple-antibiotic ointment. Here’s what a Ball Python looks like when it is getting ready to strike: That’s the exact pose most Ball Pythons make before getting ready to strike. She’s unpredictable in comparison to my male python, he’s never taken a swipe at me. Glad you found my blog post helpful, and happy to hear your sister is a proud new Ball Python owner! Thankfully he missed, and found and ate the rat. Plus, you can also damage your Ball Python’s teeth by yanking it off. They are designed to capture and restrain its prey. One thing that is important to understand is that your reaction will determine how severe the bite is. Ball pythons are reluctant to bite tough, if you are asking because you want to get one, a frigthened ball python will first curl into a tight ball before it bites you; or stay in 'strike' (a tight S shape with their necks) for a few minutes before making up its resolve to bite you. I just bought a banana ball python for my daughter 13th birthday and just wanted to say thank you for the. If the snake is holding onto you, you need to remove the snake from you first. Under very rare circumstances, ball pythons may truly believe a part of your hand is food, and therefore may refuse to release their grasp on your hand. Once washed and treated, bandage the wound (if needed or if skin is broken) and move on with your life. All those little jagged teeth could do some serious damage if you try to force remove a latched on Ball Python. Press J to jump to the feed. With that in mind, snake bites are typically a big fear to a lot of people. Believe it or not, Ball Pythons do have teeth. That sounds pretty traumatic. This is because they are non-venomous, constricting snakes. Be confident and calm, and take all the precautions outlined in this article. After reading your article I think she might have attempted to get her out of terrarium to feed her too soon after shedding. When I get bit by my smaller 2 foot ball python, it doesn't hurt, its just a suprise and I freak out. She seems to love when I have my front door open, she at very least pops her lil snout out of her hut to see what’s up, but most often, she is out of her hut and exploring the whole side of her case nearest to the door. Ben is a life-long environmental educator who writes about the natural world. I’ve decided to donate her to a reptile sanctuary as I don’t like her unpredictability and she’s not saleable. Should we suspend treatment during these times? If you’re looking to see how much they cost, we have a full pricing and care guide. Ball python bites do hurt (temporarily), I got bitten today 21-05-20 for no reason (just by taking out her water bowl). Dont worry it sounds way worse than it is. While they aren’t venomous, Ball Pythons can sometimes have harmful bacteria in their mouths. Adults bites hurt worse than babies. If you thought ball python bites don’t hurt... Close. Overall, you should be fine if you are bitten by your Ball Python. about how much do you spend on a ball python and it’s accessories? In fact, a variety of common injuries typically hurt much worse than a ball python bite. (2) A baby might be unable to simply remove the snake from its neck, as an older child or an adult would do. i’ve been thinking of getting my own ball python, and i found out that there’s quite a bit of requirements. Just remember, they’re probably just scared. He’s aggressive he strikes at you just for walking by and we don’t feed him in his enclosure so whenever we have to feed him we put on an oven mit because he strikes without fail every time . Not to worry! But if your snake bites your face or throat, it is likely a good idea to have your doctor inspect it right off the bat. Just remember, Ball Python bites are not serious and generally painless all things considered. I just bought a banana ball python for my daughter 13th birthday and just wanted to say thank you for the info, This was really helpful because am in high school think about becoming a reptile keeper and handling all types of snake and other reptiles, I have had my Firebee for almost a year, had her since she was a hatchling. Your email address will not be published. Then a silver sulfate ointment, and every three days a shot we administer. Fantastic choice! So, do your best to remain calm in the event of a bite. Ball Pythons are timid by nature, and often times they like to stay hidden. We’re trying to get him/her used to us, and found your information to be incredibly helpful. Accordingly, bites typically feel like a series of tiny pinpricks. Their bites don't hurt as much as they startle you.