When I get bit by my smaller 2 foot ball python, it doesn't hurt, its just a suprise and I freak out. I wish your daughter many happy years of ownership! But this treatment will also go on until he needs to eat in a couple of weeks. Snake Bite? A ball python s bite is a superficial wound. The best thing to do if you get bit is remain calm. Had you fed her recently? Adults bites hurt worse than babies. I’m just in shock because I’ve had snakes for awhile and never been bitten!! 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. —- 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. Your ball python likely got confused, bit your hand, and was stressed after that happened. tonight was my first time getting bit. My daughter has had her ball for 4 years he was a baby when she got him. More often than not, they will only make this pose when getting ready to eat. Hognose Snake Care Sheet & Guide to Ownership, Corn Snake Care Sheet & Guide to Ownership, https://www.youtube.com/user/NCNatureNews. An adult ball python bite will hurt a little more, nothing worse than a dog or cat bite. Oh no! Just stay calm, be confidant. May be worth a vet visit if the issue persists. Copyright 2018-2020 © All rights Reserved. Be confident and calm, and take all the precautions outlined in this article. If you see your Ball Python coiled up like this, avoid handling and try again later. This helps with two things: Now, just how many teeth do Ball Pythons have? She would nuzzle her head against my hand and I was able to pet her head without her recoiling as she doesn’t usually like it. As a snake owner, you should expect this to happen. In 2012, there was a story on ABC News about a baby who was attacked by a ball python just of his (the child’s) first birthday. 3. I wet down her case and warmed it up a little bit and she was far more active today. Now, there are some times when you should be more wary of disturbing Ball Pythons, as these are the most common times bites occur. The only caveat to this would be that a bite to the face, throat or some other delicate area may be more serious. Gently remove your python, wash the bitten area with soap and water, and most importantly, make sure your Ball Python is OK! (BTW I got most of my information at https://www.youtube.com/user/NCNatureNews which is goherping). Yes, it hurts! She isn’t letting me handle her, she is striking at me and hissing (pushing the air out of her body). . 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. All reptiles have emotions, and there are some clear warning signs you can pick up on. Press J to jump to the feed. This will help prevent it from becoming infected and allow you to heal as quickly as possible. 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 . He’s kept and bred a diverse array of reptiles and amphibians over the last three decades, but he’s always been particularly fond of snakes in the genus Morelia and monitor lizards. I don’t understand what’s wrong. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. They are all faced backwards toward the body of the snake. Ball Pythons do not have fangs, and are not venomous at all. Also, because these snakes don’t reach very large sizes, their bites rarely cause a lot of damage. Dont worry it sounds way worse than it is. Being bit by a ball python is just about as rare as clean dishes in a college dorm kitchen. The bite really isn’t that bad. Saying this can be a sore spot for many folks, and will likely stir up debate depending on who you’re speaking with. After reading your article I think she might have attempted to get her out of terrarium to feed her too soon after shedding. Always use caution if you’re bitten by a ball python, and seek medical treatment. Poisonous creatures/plants don’t have any method of injection. Venomous Snake Bites. i’ve been thinking of getting my own ball python, and i found out that there’s quite a bit of requirements. 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. It doesn't feel pleasant, but it's not bad. The teeth facing backward also helps swallow and digest the food once a Ball Python constricts and kills it’s prey. i just bought a usual ball python and it’s fun. Ball Pythons have 4 rows of teeth on the roof of their mouth, and 2 rows on the bottom part of their jaw. Once a ball python realizes that you will not hurt it they often seem to enjoy being handled. He lives in Atlanta, Georgia with his beautiful wife and spoiled-rotten Rottweiler. Finish up by covering the wound with a bandage. I hope it will never come handy, however you never know, especially with snakes crazy small kids in the house. One of the most noteworthy emotions a Ball Python can have is the strike position. Then, wash the wound gently with soap and warm water. However, the initial surprise from your snake’s attack may cause you more panic. Believe it or not, Ball Pythons do have teeth. The main worry with a ball pythons bite is the shock factor of just getting bitten by a snake. Depending on the size of the snake. (1) An adult ball python is certainly long enough to get around a baby’s neck. Even though they sound scary, venomous snake bites rarely end up being fatal. For this specific case, I would highly recommend reaching out to the vet who gave you the wash and ask for advice. Though it may not be your instinct to do so, hold as still as possible. After calling her father, he instructed me to wiggle her tail. A couple of days ago, she was very lethargic, litterally laying sagged over my arms. I have been caring for a beautiful ball python for about 3 months now. Once washed and treated, bandage the wound (if needed or if skin is broken) and move on with your life. The bite doesn’t hurt. Just be confident, and you and your sister will get used to handling her in no time! Fantastic choice! We saw a reptile vet who gave us a wash which we gently rub on for a few minutes, leave for ten and then clean off with wet paper towels gently. Ball pythons are not venomous and don’t have fangs, so a bite may not be as severe as other snake bites. I’m not going to lie i geeked. We love them by any name! Typically, only venomous snakes have fangs that inject venom into attacked prey. This is because they are non-venomous, constricting snakes. For instance, a defensive bite is very shallow and painless. 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. If the proper steps are taken, the worst that will happen is a few drops of blood and a band-aid. Some ball pythons may try to hide when handled and occasionally there are ones that may even bite due to excessive fear. The maximum damage a ball python bite can do to you is to break your skin tissue and slight bleeding. 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. This is a way of your pet telling you, “Not now. Your snake may mistake your hand or fingers for prey. Now, there’s a difference between fangs and teeth. In fact, a variety of common injuries typically hurt much worse than a ball python bite. HELP PLEASE!!! Pythons bite first and would attack a human in two ways: 1. 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. 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. When they attack their prey, they bite into them and constrict to kill. Do you maybe have any insight???? When handling your snake, be sure you’re confident. A dog or cat can do much greater damage, inflict significantly more pain, than your pet ball python. Was he maybe just not into the mouse? So obviously my daughter is scared to death to handle him now and she’s heartbroken because she used to always have him out. Receiving a bite is a rite of passage for snake keepers. If a snake looks like it is going to strike, it is best to not handle it. The exact amount truly depends on the age and size of the snake. It's like getting poked with a very tiny needles. This means that bites are not very common at all. The first thing to do is not panic. Your snake’s teeth may scratch, puncture, or bruise your skin. There are a few guidelines you should follow in order to not hurt the snake. just know it was nothing personal! The grasp of a Ball Python bite is surprisingly strong, and the pressure from the bite is often more alarming than the damage that happens because of the bite. Does a Ball Python Bite Hurt? 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. Just go right in and pick him up. Just remember, they’re probably just scared. With that said, here’s what you should do if a bite happens. 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. Yes ball pythons do bite. When a bite occurs, you’ll feel a pressure and squeeze in the afflicted area. But not without warning. A lot of owners are nervous that their pet snake may eventually bite them. 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. Not to worry! 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. Wish you the best of luck, and hopefully your little guy will stop striking as much! hey there ! But, a bite can quickly become very painful if you don’t take the proper steps when it happens. Relax when holding your animal sit down and give the animal a chance to settle. I feed her in a drawer and I put the drawer by her enclosure and she went in on her own. The best thing to do if you get bit is remain calm. I’ve decided to donate her to a reptile sanctuary as I don’t like her unpredictability and she’s not saleable. I’ve been feeding him rat pups weekly. Your email address will not be published. Maybe your snake contracted some kind of mites when he escaped. Most snakes are ornery when they are hungry and it’s close to feeding time. Sometimes, fresh snake skin can be sensitive, and they do not wish to be handled during this time. This is quite an informative piece on ball pythons bite. Try not to handle your snake during these times, or at least use extra care if you must. My guess is your snake sensed some kind of predator since it sounds like you were outside. In all honesty a ball pythons bite does not hurt to much. It may be time to upgrade your Ball Python’s tank, sounds like he could be frustrated due to a small home. Ball Pythons are known to latch on when they bite. As a baby, a bite does not hurt. While their teeth are quite sharp, ball pythons don’t have strong jaws. I pretty much read this article while my ball python was latched to my arm! thanks for making this blog.such a great sharing.cheers! If you yank a Ball Python off of you, it will make the bite much worse and cause you more pain because you’ll likely rip more of your skin off by doing so. All those little jagged teeth could do some serious damage if you try to force remove a latched on Ball Python. 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. Try to approach him slowly and with caution at first, and try to test out handling him every other day or so. 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. The first time I saw her yawn, I about wet myself. Start by ensuring that your hands never smell like potential prey when reaching into his enclosure. 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. The first is the play bite or love bite. I’m not going to lie to anyone here being bit does hurt. I just bought a banana ball python for my daughter 13th birthday and just wanted to say thank you for the. If that’s the case, and she was hungry, she may have been agitated that there was food near by and was being restricted. Ball Python teeth are small, barb-like, and very sharp. But, if you jerk away, these puncture wounds may become lacerations (they may also rip out some of your snake’s teeth, which may lead to problems for your pet). The first thing to do after receiving a bite is to put your ball python back in his enclosure. Glad to hear you’re ok! (2) A baby might be unable to simply remove the snake from its neck, as an older child or an adult would do. It’s best to wait until a day or so after shedding to handle again. If the snake is holding onto you, you need to remove the snake from you first. The bite is fine, as you mentioned the shock and trauma of the bite is worse than the bite itself. The worst I've had was a rabbit bite. It will depend a lot on the size of the python when it bites you. 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. I then fed him another rat pup and he took it immediately! Therefore, a defensive bite will likely feel like a few pinpricks and will hurt less than an insect sting. 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. 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. In my experience, the more frequently you handle them, the more familiar they become with you. Well first, snakes are not poisonous. Turns out it’s time to up his feed size. This article was really helpful. I have never been bitten, and I’m scared to start now. When my big female ball's tooth scraped my finger, it kind of hurt because I pulled back, but nothing serious. 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. What to do if it happens. He tried again the next day and she didn’t eat anything. It's painful, but nothing a little hydrogen peroxide, and neosporin can handle. 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. Remember – snakes can sense if you’re feeling hesitant or scared to pick them up. It might be more traumatic to others, though. 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. This isn’t the first attempt she has taken a swipe at me. However, compared to many pets, ball python bites are really not bad. Again, the mental shock of getting bit by a snake is usually more harrowing the the pain from the bite. Just avoid handling them if you smell like food, or … Ball python teeth are extremely sharp, so a bite will frequently bleed freely--for the same reason, however, it just doesn't hurt very much. On average, Ball Pythons have about 25-35 teeth. Sorry to hear that. He’s always been the sweetest thing for 3 years he never even struck at a person. My friend yanked his Ball Python off my leg and I still have a mark to prove it. You can see the pricing guide here, and the ball python care guide here. Does a Ball Python Bite Hurt? As your python gets bigger, the more you will feel it if it decides to bite you. It’s best to avoid handling your Ball Python all together before and after they eat. A very young snake may not break the skin and you might not feel anything at all. It’s more panic-inducing than anything else. 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 … I’d suggest not bringing her outside for a while, and when you do, make sure she’s been fed recently. Now with this bite thing, im worried I won’t make a good snake mom for her. omg this blog is so helpful! This more likely happens if they are young, inexperienced, and happen to be quite hungry. Simply put, ball python bites are not very painful. 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. Log In Sign Up. 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. If you remain motionless, chances are, the snake will bite and release you very quickly. Not a warning strike, mouth wide open, latched on for about 7-8 minutes, blood coming from the wound, bit me. Under these circumstances, the ball python will typically bite a finger, hold it firm, then constrict on the finger. 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. Plus, you can also damage your Ball Python’s teeth by yanking it off. Hi there! Hi there, sorry to hear about this situation! I screamed bloody murder it was the pressure and him moving his jaw around that hurt the most. Becoming frantic, anxious, and scared will only make things worse. They do not have venom. Yes, ball pythons do bite. So I was gone for 2 weeks on a trip to California. The second is the feeding response or f*ck you (survival) bite. Banana Ball Pythons are a great beginner snake, and are a beautiful species/morph. Hope everything turns out ok. save. 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. Some of the best examples would include: All of these things hurt much worse than a typical ball python bite. Neosporin, rubbing alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide should all do the trick. Could he have gotten hurt? I would just like to add, personally, with hatchlings, I like to allow them time to adjust before picking them up. He struck and immediately released. The Ball Python Behavior (Common & Unusual) and Health, put your ball python back in his enclosure. 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. Don’t be scared afterwards just try not to make the same mistake. There are a few key giveaways that you will notice that indicate your Ball Python is ready to shed. Thankfully he missed, and found and ate the rat. Pull any stuck teeth out with a pair of tweezers and wash the wound one more time for good measure. It is also wise to visit the doctor if you haven’t had a recent tetanus booster. That is incredible. 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. They are not snakes that will readily bite in defense. Your snake is probably in shock, because it’s never experienced anything like that in it’s life before. Reasons for Ball Python Bites The best way to avoid bites, is to avoid giving your ball python a reason to bite you. If you thought ball python bites don’t hurt... 9 comments. Most of the bites reported by breeders come from hatchlings, babies, and juveniles. But it is not life-threatening nor … Don’t touch me”. <3. Well I got a phone call from my friend saying she would only eat one mouse out of the 3. Once we found him it’s like a completely different ball. I have a banana python hatchling he never comes from his hide and is always in the striking position how do I get him use to human contact if he never comes out of his hide and to stop striking. It’s a distinct stance that many snakes take when they are aggressive and about to attack. Overall, you should be fine if you are bitten by your Ball Python. So the victim does not get hurt from the bite instead they may suffer from the mental shock of getting a bite from a snake. This not only means washing your hands after handling rodents, but also anytime you touch your dog, cat, bird or other family pet. With a snake bite, it should be soap and water. 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. ... Make sure that your snake also does not look ill or hurt in any way. Ben is a life-long environmental educator who writes about the natural world. Snakes also become defensive around the times they are shedding. Being calm is key. In fact, you shouldn’t be surprised if you never feel your pet’s teeth – even if he lives for decades. The ball python’s bite does not hurt. Doesn’t hurt, might leave a mark, probably wont bleed and the snake goes immediately back to exhibiting docile behavior. We’re trying to get him/her used to us, and found your information to be incredibly helpful. But he did eventually let go. They are designed to capture and restrain its prey. Accordingly, bites typically feel like a series of tiny pinpricks. about how much do you spend on a ball python and it’s accessories? Still have the scar. Your snake may feel threatened, causing him to bite in self-defense. She was looping herself in knots around me and seeming snuggling with me. 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. Ball Python Bite 101: Causes, Treatment & Do They Hurt. He latched onto my knuckle and then let go about 10 seconds later. Their bites don't hurt as much as they startle you. Re: What does a bite from a ball python feel like? She was very active. Wow — 38 years old? > Further Reading: Does a Ball Python Bite Hurt (and Why Would Your Pet Bite)? If you manage to get a ball python to bite you by provoking it you've really gone too far. You have a couple days to get that, so no need to rush to the emergency room for that. My ball but when when he was only two months when I was feeding him. Look at the wound carefully and try to determine if any teeth remain in your skin. Whether your ball python just bit you, or you are trying to learn about bites before you experience one firsthand, you’re probably wondering why your snake would bite you in the first place. I still trust him, just wondering how he mistook my scent for his prey. share. Ball Python bites typically don’t hurt at all. These are babies too. However, if it fails to do so, or you notice any significant redness, swelling, streak-like marks, or discharge, see your doctor and have him or her evaluate the wound. Please help I don’t want to have to rehome him but I feel so bad for his quality of life with us if he can’t be held and just lives in his enclosure. 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. If you notice these signs, simply return your snake to his enclosure so he can feel secure again. Was I skiddish around him for the next couple of weeks absolutely. One thing that is important to understand is that your reaction will determine how severe the bite is. Animals, especially snakes, can pick up on emotions, and this will cause them (and you) more stress during an incident. 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. You might have a few tiny drops of blood if you ever get bit. 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. User account menu. Give it time — hatchlings can show aggression because they aren’t used to you yet. Glad to hear you’re ok, Ana! These ball pythons may require a bit more time to settle in and establish trust. It’s very uncommon that these snakes will bite you or someone handling them. While they aren’t venomous, Ball Pythons can sometimes have harmful bacteria in their mouths. Hi, thanks for this article. Thank you. I am absolutely terrified of snakes, but I love this one and I am not anxious with her until something new happens. I am sharing answers to some of your most frequently asked questions!!!! Now my snake typically eats 2 or 3 mice every week on Wednesday’s. Ball Python teeth are angled backwards, so they can latch on to prey more easily. First, if they are hanging out in their water bowl more than normal, they are preparing to shed. That means they squeeze their prey. Pour a mild first-aid disinfectant over the wound, allow it to dry, and then add a triple-antibiotic ointment. I just got home and it’s feeding day so as usual I decided to feed her. It is also wise to avoid handling your pet ball python at night when they’re typically most active and alert. Does a ball pythons bite hurt? Thanks! poured a cup of cold water on him and he came right off! Just bought a Ball Python for my 17 yr old grandson. Loves being handled and has never startled. Accordingly, bites typically feel like a series of tiny pinpricks. It is suggested that the victim should not panic and he or she should calm down after this unfortunate incident. However right now he has a bit of a case of scale rot we are treating. Since snakes ‘inject’ their deadly liquids, they are technically ‘venomous’. 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. , chances are, the more frequently you handle them, the wound, me. You yet to wait until a day later sharing answers to some of the most common places occur! Frequently asked questions!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. Generally painless all things considered > Further Reading: does a ball python will.. 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