Reptile & Amphibian Forums

my male python has an eye cap i guess its called ..he shed very beautifully except on one eye..how do i remove it safely?

You can use a piece of masking tape, NOT something as sticky as duct tape.

Roll it, sticky side out, around your finger and CAREFULLY tap the stuck eye cap. I've done it several times and the old cap will pull away using this method. Don't stick it to the new eye cap either.

Make sure its an old eye cap.

Or, the safer method, you can put K-Y gel on it and it should come off next shed. Use K-Y (its water based) NOT Vasoline.

No tape will ever touch the eye of one of my snakes!!! I've seen pictures recently of blinded snakes. Don't no if thats what happened, but why risk it? The eye cap isn't the most healthy thing to have on there, but it should come off next shed. The only thing I would consider doing for it is to take an almost dripping wet, warm towel, and let the snake hide its head in the towel for 20 - 30 minutes, or as long as he will tolerate it. Then very, very gently rub over the eye. If it doesn't come loose really easily, just leave it.

Thats my advice, others may disagree.
Steve

Crank up the humidity. Most of my snakes are in a rack and when one has a retained eyecap, I will pour/add some water to the tub (newspaper or paper towel as a substrate)this will increase the humidity and I will then leave the snake overnight, then in the morning will take a Q-tip and GENTLY wipe over the eyecap. This will usually work, but if you are unsure keep an eye on it and when he gets ready for his next shed increase the humidity after his eyes clear and all should go good. Most importantly be careful and don't force the issue.
Mike Derks