Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello - new here -

Last night, my new (had about a week) CA king (albino) latched on to my finger. This is the first time I have had her out of her tank (giving time to get used to new environment).

She came out of the tank fine (no lashing out, or avoiding being picked up). I was holding her for about 10 minutes, and noticed she was latched on (full mouth). I am figuring that since it was her first time out - and feeding day is Friday - there were a couple of factors involved.

Strangely (although I have never been bitten by any of my snakes - even "newbies" I did not adversly respond via hand shaking etc. Just looked at her...hmmmm...why did you do that (followed by some explicit workings

I gently placed my thumb and forefinger on the side of her mouth, and waited for her to release. When I felt the pressure from her weaken, I VERY gently squeezed with my fingers (so she would'nt clamp down again).

After that - into her cage and washed with soap and put an antibiotic cream on. It wasn't much to look at (did draw blood, but like a pin prick)..but didn't want to take any chances.

My question is - did I do right, or should I have responded differently?

I know that I will not pick her up again till 2-3 days after feeding (not close to feeding time)...perhaps I held her for too long of a time for the first time?

Thanks
Cheryl

I always keep some kind of strong acoholic unflavored or light flavored (the clear kind) of listerine. Or alcoholic hand sanitizer. the alcohol temporarily irritates the mouth of the animal but wont do any permanent damage. It doesnt take much either, usually a little splash is enough for them to pop right off and try and get that nasty taste out of theyre mouth lol. Thats my best method, works great for larger boids like retics and big boas when they get nasty