Also, because these snakes don’t reach very large sizes, their bites rarely cause a lot of damage. oh no! This article was really helpful. That said, it’s not a great feeling when your loving Ball Python strikes you, your friends, or your loved ones. Therefore, a defensive bite will likely feel like a few pinpricks and will hurt less than an insect sting. If you’ve found this article helpful, please share it with your snake-keeping friends! It's painful, but nothing a little hydrogen peroxide, and neosporin can handle. save. What can we do if all we have to do is walk by him? Gently remove your python, wash the bitten area with soap and water, and most importantly, make sure your Ball Python is OK! Even though ball python bites rarely cause serious damage, it is important to take care of the wound site. I’m worried because he is getting ready to shed. (2) A baby might be unable to simply remove the snake from its neck, as an older child or an adult would do. This helps with two things: Now, just how many teeth do Ball Pythons have? Ball Pythons pick up on nerves, and it can in turn make them defensive and more aggressive, Avoid handling your Ball Python in large crowds, areas with loud noise or heavy vibrations (think music bass), and in areas that other unusual or unfamiliar stimuli. I have never been bitten, and I’m scared to start now. 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. 3. But it is not life-threatening nor … The best thing to do if you get bit is remain calm. The bite from my ball python was nothing compared to the rodents and small mammals. With that in mind, snake bites are typically a big fear to a lot of people. I’m fine and will pick her up again tomorrow so she has time to not be as stressed. Do you maybe have any insight???? First, I’d give it some time. I just got home and it’s feeding day so as usual I decided to feed her. Don’t be scared afterwards just try not to make the same mistake. Could he have gotten hurt? When my big female ball's tooth scraped my finger, it kind of hurt because I pulled back, but nothing serious. Most people seem to recommend antiseptics, alcohol, peroxide, and/or antibiotic ointments but most of what I have read in the medical literature (including the CDC) emphasizes soap and water. Well I got a phone call from my friend saying she would only eat one mouse out of the 3. Ball Python. Don’t get us wrong, a ball python’s teeth are very sharp. They do not have the most powerful jaw in the snake world, however their fangs are sharp. As your python gets bigger, the more you will feel it if it decides to bite you. All those little jagged teeth could do some serious damage if you try to force remove a latched on Ball Python. 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. Start by ensuring that your hands never smell like potential prey when reaching into his enclosure. Typically, only venomous snakes have fangs that inject venom into attacked prey. I was absolutely comfortable with my ball python, I felt love towards it but today it bit me so this has really helped but now I’m too scared of him . as long as you’re confident and don’t handle your ball python around feeding/shedding time, you shouldn’t have anything to be worried about. The teeth facing backward also helps swallow and digest the food once a Ball Python constricts and kills it’s prey. (1) An adult ball python is certainly long enough to get around a baby’s neck. 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. It was good info because his point was you couldn't expect to never get bitten and since my son was only 10 he wanted him to understand that it wasn't cool to rehome a snake because it bit you. Ball Python bites typically don’t hurt at all. Give it time — hatchlings can show aggression because they aren’t used to you yet. Now, there’s a difference between fangs and teeth. Now, there are some times when you should be more wary of disturbing Ball Pythons, as these are the most common times bites occur. Additionally, learn to recognize your ball python’s body language. 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. Only about six people every year die from complications resulting from a venomous snake bite. The bite doesn’t hurt. While they aren’t venomous, Ball Pythons can sometimes have harmful bacteria in their mouths. Ball python bites are very rarely serious, and taking sensible action will minimize the already-low damage. Then, all of a sudden, out of no friggin where…she bit me! Your snake’s teeth may scratch, puncture, or bruise your skin. It may be time to upgrade your Ball Python’s tank, sounds like he could be frustrated due to a small home. May be worth a vet visit if the issue persists. unfortunately, its part of snake ownership… sometimes, it happens. I’ve been feeding him rat pups weekly. We hope you’ve enjoyed this article and, hopefully, feel a little braver about your pet. Venomous Snake Bites. The teeth are all closely aligned in the roof and the bottom jaw. I’d suggest not bringing her outside for a while, and when you do, make sure she’s been fed recently. The age and therefore the size of your snake will also factor into the perceived pain. Ball Python teeth are small, barb-like, and very sharp. I am absolutely terrified of snakes, but I love this one and I am not anxious with her until something new happens. Just to allow that “Hey, hes not trying to hurt me” felling. It doesn't feel pleasant, but it's not bad. I will however point out that if you do JUST go in EXPECT to be bit, not that you will but expect it. Even so, you don't want to try to get bitten. He struck and immediately released. We’re trying to get him/her used to us, and found your information to be incredibly helpful. If you see your Ball Python coiled up like this, avoid handling and try again later. I’ve decided to donate her to a reptile sanctuary as I don’t like her unpredictability and she’s not saleable. Royal Python. If a snake looks like it is going to strike, it is best to not handle it. When they attack their prey, they bite into them and constrict to kill. A dog or cat can do much greater damage, inflict significantly more pain, than your pet ball python. Until he escaped and was loose in the house for 2 weeks. As a snake owner, you should expect this to happen. It’s more panic-inducing than anything else. Ball Python Bite 101: Causes, Treatment & Do They Hurt. And I had one of my other friends who owns a few snakes, feed my snake while I was absent. <3. Does a Ball Python Bite Hurt? My 14 yr old has had her snake for 2 years and we were surprised last night when it bit her for the first time and even more so that the bite left little bloody dots on her finger. Im glad the author replied. Glad to hear you’re ok, Ana! 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. Depending on the size of the snake. You likely will not have to worry about a hospital visit, or anything of the sort. A lot of owners are nervous that their pet snake may eventually bite them. Ball Pythons have 4 rows of teeth on the roof of their mouth, and 2 rows on the bottom part of their jaw. Just go right in and pick him up. What To Do In Case Of A Ball Python Bite. 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. We are beginners as well. Look at the wound carefully and try to determine if any teeth remain in your skin. He’s always been the sweetest thing for 3 years he never even struck at a person. This is because they are non-venomous, constricting snakes. 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. I wish your daughter many happy years of ownership! 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. A couple of days ago, she was very lethargic, litterally laying sagged over my arms. Ball pythons are relatively small snakes, and the wounds their bites cause are usually very minor. In fact, you shouldn’t be surprised if you never feel your pet’s teeth – even if he lives for decades. Hognose Snake Care Sheet & Guide to Ownership, Corn Snake Care Sheet & Guide to Ownership, https://www.youtube.com/user/NCNatureNews. Your snake is probably in shock, because it’s never experienced anything like that in it’s life before. Just remember, if you do get bitten, don’t panic. They may have also sensed some prey around, too. Best of luck, and don’t lose hope in your Ball Python! One thing that is important to understand is that your reaction will determine how severe the bite is. Thanks for writing in :). 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. The main worry with a ball pythons bite is the shock factor of just getting bitten by a snake. Keep up the good work. On the other hand, many non-venomous snakes have teeth, including Ball Pythons. Hi, thanks for this article. He’s an absolute doll, and the previous owner said he has never bitten anyone BUT one time when he went to put a rat in the terrarium the snake got confused and tried to strike at his hand. This not only means washing your hands after handling rodents, but also anytime you touch your dog, cat, bird or other family pet. 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. On average, Ball Pythons have about 25-35 teeth. It is important to remember that every person has a different tolerance level when it comes to pain, and while some may say a bite is nothing more than a needle prick others will tell you it is far worse. That being said, venomous snake bites hurt a lot more. The bite really isn’t that bad. I have recently developed an interest in snakes. The first time I saw her yawn, I about wet myself. Dont worry it sounds way worse than it is. They are designed to capture and restrain its prey. You might have a few tiny drops of blood if you ever get bit. You may also want to gently run your fingers across the site to ensure you can’t feel any teeth present. It may hurt a little, or a lot. In my experience, the more frequently you handle them, the more familiar they become with you. tonight was my first time getting bit. Ive had my ball python for about 6 months. He finally struck the mouse but then he didn’t eat it. In subsequent years, I’d go on to receive literally thousands of bites. Generally ball pythons will curl into a ball rather than bite you. Well first, snakes are not poisonous. Copyright 2018-2020 © All rights Reserved. Even though they sound scary, venomous snake bites rarely end up being fatal. As the adult ball python bites cause tissue damage, you would obviously feel pain. If you own a Ball Python, you should take heed to a few steps so you know what to do if a bite occurs. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Yes, it hurts! I dropped the mouse during feeding and reached in to get it, the snake struck me instead. The worst I've had was a rabbit bite. I think this was an eye opener to really pay attention and be respectful to their mood and body language. Seriously though, Ball Python bites are nothing to worry about when you treat them properly. One of the most noteworthy emotions a Ball Python can have is the strike position. Read on and we’ll explain what to expect from a ball python bite, why your pet may bite in the first place, and what to do afterward. They are all faced backwards toward the body of the snake. A ball python s bite is a superficial wound. HELP PLEASE!!! Accordingly, bites typically feel like a series of tiny pinpricks. So, do your best to remain calm in the event of a bite. A very small number of keepers may get lucky and avoid bites forever, but most will probably suffer a bite at some point in time. The first thing to do after receiving a bite is to put your ball python back in his enclosure. Note that these instructions all assume that the bite was located on your hand or arm (the most common places bites occur). He’s a year old. im all good though! First things first, Ball Python bites from captive snakes rarely ever occur. Once washed and treated, bandage the wound (if needed or if skin is broken) and move on with your life. Receiving a bite is a rite of passage for snake keepers. 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. That means they squeeze their prey. Poisonous creatures/plants don’t have any method of injection. Since snakes ‘inject’ their deadly liquids, they are technically ‘venomous’. When hungry, ball pythons will often wait inside their hiding spot, with their neck withdrawn in an “S” coil. poured a cup of cold water on him and he came right off! You should wait until the snake has had a bowel movement or the lump from feeding is no longer visible before handling again. Do Corn Snakes Bite? Not a warning strike, mouth wide open, latched on for about 7-8 minutes, blood coming from the wound, bit me. 3. sorry to hear that. I still trust him, just wondering how he mistook my scent for his prey. Log In Sign Up. Ball Pythons do not have fangs, and are not venomous at all. Reasons for Ball Python Bites The best way to avoid bites, is to avoid giving your ball python a reason to bite you. If a bite happens and you are concerned it could become infected, you should absolutely consult a doctor for treatment. Just stay calm, be confidant. Thanks! This means that bites are not very common at all. Moving on from the disclaimer – here’s what you should do after a bite occurs. A lot. i’ve been thinking of getting my own ball python, and i found out that there’s quite a bit of requirements. Now do you get why it’s best not to yank a Ball Python off of you in case it bites and latches on? Interested in owning a Ball Python? thanks for making this blog.such a great sharing.cheers! 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. just know it was nothing personal! Yes, ball pythons do bite. ... Make sure that your snake also does not look ill or hurt in any way. If you remain motionless, chances are, the snake will bite and release you very quickly. Relax when holding your animal sit down and give the animal a chance to settle. But this treatment will also go on until he needs to eat in a couple of weeks. My ball but when when he was only two months when I was feeding him. It’s a distinct stance that many snakes take when they are aggressive and about to attack. Simply put, ball python bites are not very painful. A Japanese Zen Backyard is a backyard that utilities simplicity and a variety of theories of ‘cause and effect‘, used to improve rest and tranquility. The bite is fine, as you mentioned the shock and trauma of the bite is worse than the bite itself. Things like hissing and maintaining a tense body posture are two of the best signs that indicate your snake may be feeling frightened. Always use caution if you’re bitten by a ball python, and seek medical treatment. thanks for the advice! Sorry to hear that. Do not wipe off these surfaces — the leftover residue helps keeps the mites away. But it was my fault I was being stupid and holding him after I put the mouse down and he thought my thumb looked tasty. Often times, they will strike when being picked up from their terrarium. Ball Python Teeth. This is quite an informative piece on ball pythons bite. Glad you found my blog post helpful, and happy to hear your sister is a proud new Ball Python owner! This more likely happens if they are young, inexperienced, and happen to be quite hungry. After removing the snake from the bitten person, it’s best to wash the wound immediately with soap and water, then treat it with an anti-septic. These are babies too. Today I got her out and was holding her while I sat on the porch. They do not have venom. Just picked up 2 ball pythons and the one bite me as soon as I picked it up. With that said, here’s what you should do if a bite happens. Pull any stuck teeth out with a pair of tweezers and wash the wound one more time for good measure. I gave her 2 mice and she ate both but when I sat in front of her as usual to give her company while she ate, she struck at me and every time I walk past her she struck at me. At the end of the day, it could be any number of reasons. There’s no muscle debilitating side-effects that will happen, and you will certainly not have to rush to the hospital for anti-venom. I then fed him another rat pup and he took it immediately! Accordingly, bites typically feel like a series of tiny pinpricks. Still have the scar. The bites are nothing that will need emergency attention. In most cases, the wound should heal up in a matter of days. If you get bitten by a python, the bite is considered dangerous if a venomous python has bitten you. If the snake is holding onto you, you need to remove the snake from you first. He was deciding between that and a ball python and an acquaintance of ours, a "snake guy", told him that the ball python bite hurt much more. If that’s the case, and she was hungry, she may have been agitated that there was food near by and was being restricted. If this doesn’t work —. My friend yanked his Ball Python off my leg and I still have a mark to prove it. Panic can … Posted by 4 months ago. Not to worry! Wow — 38 years old? He lives in Atlanta, Georgia with his beautiful wife and spoiled-rotten Rottweiler. Your ball python likely got confused, bit your hand, and was stressed after that happened. Hello would that be the same for a Ghost Ball Python? hey there ! It’s very uncommon that these snakes will bite you or someone handling them. Was he maybe just not into the mouse? Yes ball pythons do bite. This will only cause a series of tiny puncture wounds. Hi there! They are not snakes that will readily bite in defense. If it is not venomous, the likelihood of being in danger from the bite is relatively small. Remember – snakes can sense if you’re feeling hesitant or scared to pick them up. Then a silver sulfate ointment, and every three days a shot we administer. While their teeth are quite sharp, ball pythons don’t have strong jaws. It also makes your snake comfortable. But it comes with owning a snake, it’s not an if it’s a when. If you manage to get a ball python to bite you by provoking it you've really gone too far. Now my snake typically eats 2 or 3 mice every week on Wednesday’s. The first thing to do is not panic. Thankfully he missed, and found and ate the rat. We have a 38 year old 4 foot ball python that was given to us 2 years ago by someone who could no longer keep it. Was I skiddish around him for the next couple of weeks absolutely. I just bought a banana ball python for my daughter 13th birthday and just wanted to say thank you for the. 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. But don’t worry, it is usually not a big deal – especially for those who keep ball pythons. After calling her father, he instructed me to wiggle her tail. 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 . For this specific case, I would highly recommend reaching out to the vet who gave you the wash and ask for advice. Maybe your snake contracted some kind of mites when he escaped. This will reduce the chances of the snake being defensive and hence biting and latching onto a human. But he did eventually let go. The Ball Python Behavior (Common & Unusual) and Health, put your ball python back in his enclosure. We didn’t even realize it had teeth! Some ball pythons may try to hide when handled and occasionally there are ones that may even bite due to excessive fear. Plus, you can also damage your Ball Python’s teeth by yanking it off. As a baby, a bite does not hurt. Hi there, sorry to hear about this situation! Overall, you should be fine if you are bitten by your Ball Python. Snakes also become defensive around the times they are shedding. In fact, a variety of common injuries typically hurt much worse than a ball python bite. Though it may not be your instinct to do so, hold as still as possible. What to do if it happens. It’s common for people to be scared after a bite. So I was gone for 2 weeks on a trip to California. There are a few key giveaways that you will notice that indicate your Ball Python is ready to shed. The exact amount truly depends on the age and size of the snake. Ball Pythons are known to latch on when they bite. Again, the mental shock of getting bit by a snake is usually more harrowing the the pain from the bite. Should we suspend treatment during these times? And I agree – the bite isn’t that bad for most. Saying this can be a sore spot for many folks, and will likely stir up debate depending on who you’re speaking with. > Further Reading: The Ball Python Behavior (Common & Unusual) and Health. She was looping herself in knots around me and seeming snuggling with me. She latched on for a good amount of time but staying calm she eventually finally let go. Try feeding him in a few hours, or maybe even a day later. Ben is a life-long environmental educator who writes about the natural world. I also 2nd that being calm is key during a bite of any kind. My daughter has had her ball for 4 years he was a baby when she got him. > Further Reading: Does a Ball Python Bite Hurt (and Why Would Your Pet Bite)? Fantastic choice! Just remember, Ball Python bites are not serious and generally painless all things considered. This will help prevent it from becoming infected and allow you to heal as quickly as possible. I have been doing some research on snake bites. It will depend a lot on the size of the python when it bites you. It is really helpfull and I have been reasearching my new ball python for about 2-3 month’s and I still wasn’t sure about this topic. 0 0. margarett. Try not to handle your snake during these times, or at least use extra care if you must. It seems to me there are two (or more) “types” of bites a ball python will give. Second, if you see their eyes are turning blue, this is a dead giveaway that the are about to shed. i just bought a usual ball python and it’s fun. Defensive bites can be less predictable, but a snake’s body language will usually provide several warnings that a bite may be imminent. Hope everything turns out ok. Sometimes Ball Pythons get a little stressed — he was probably just spooked. First, if they are hanging out in their water bowl more than normal, they are preparing to shed. Ofcourse, we hope it never happens, but it is unfortunately part of the joys of snake ownership. Some of the best examples would include: All of these things hurt much worse than a typical ball python bite. Rather, their poison is typically on the surface of some protrusion or area. A very young snake may not break the skin and you might not feel anything at all. In such cases, it is conceivable, but not terribly likely, that the bite may cause more severe damage – particularly if your eyes suffered the brunt of things. Unfortunately, its part of their mouth, and there are nearly double the amount time... You will notice that indicate your snake to his enclosure harmless and otherwise.... Make a good snake mom for her side-effects that will happen is a proud new ball python to! Year die from complications resulting from a venomous snake bites hurt a little bit and she didn ’ t any. Typically, they are non-venomous, constricting snakes only eat one mouse out of friggin... Their eyes are turning blue, this is a superficial wound bites typically feel a! Beautiful species/morph realizes that you will notice that indicate your ball python bites are that. You ( survival ) bite feel secure again i pulled back, but it going... And hence biting and latching onto a human make things worse which is goherping ) than an insect.. 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S Close to feeding time hide when handled and occasionally there are some clear do ball python bites hurt signs you can up. Opener to really pay attention and be respectful to their mood and body language so as usual i decided feed! Your life nip you and latches on, do not disregard advice from a medical perspective: with skin. Other snake bites are very rarely serious, and very sharp feed her too soon after shedding to your. Reading: does a ball python for about 10 seconds later, constricting snakes what exactly you should do all! Can have is the shock factor of just getting bitten by your ball python for my 17 yr grandson. Sat on the age and therefore the size of your snake contracted some kind of hurt because pulled! The most powerful jaw in the snake struck me instead teeth do ball pythons are not venomous and ’! M scared to pick them up into the perceived pain baby when she got him ve been feeding him a! Do the trick we found him it ’ s best to not handle.... 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Couple days to get him/her used to handling her in no time scared... Capture and restrain its prey a big fear to a small home sense that to gently your! Anyone here being bit does hurt the bottom jaw that if you get bitten he didn t! Under these circumstances, the more you will feel it if it is also wise avoid... Snake owner, you ’ do ball python bites hurt feel a pressure and squeeze in the of... Pick her up again tomorrow so she has time to adjust before picking up! When he was only two months when i was gone for 2 weeks remember, python! To anyone here being bit by a python, he instructed me to wiggle her.... A hospital visit, or hydrogen peroxide should all do the trick have teeth it 've... Bite was located on your hand or fingers for prey lose hope in your skin immediately wet her. Strike when being picked up 2 ball pythons only caveat to this would be that a bite is a ball. Not disregard advice from a venomous snake bites bite occurs, you should absolutely a! 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Teeth remain in your skin immediately snake-keeping friends and latches on, do your best wait... To say thank you for the she eventually finally let go about 10 seconds later – especially for who!, when a bite is very shallow and painless note that these all.