Reptile & Amphibian Forums

One of my high school science teachers called me today and told me her ball python's stomach looked like it was rotting? It wasn't shedding very well. Now the bottom scales look like there actually decomposing and are pink around them? I wasn't quite sure what to say, I had some ideas, but wanted to see what the real experts had to say Please leave me some feed back as soon as possible so I can hopefully get this fixed!! Thanks

First advice, get it to a qualified vet.

I’m not a vet, but without a photo it sounds like advanced scale rot. This is caused from excessively damp or wet conditions, also from unclean conditions.

Find out what is wrong with the husbandry or treatment won’t help.

While waiting for the vet appointment keep it on a clean, dry paper substrate (either newsprint or paper towel work well).

Apply Providone Iodine 10% twice a day(generic brands are available at most drug stores for a few dollars) .

If it is not scale rot, this course of treatment will not adversely effect your animal.

Again get it to a vet.

Good luck
TomChambers

I agree completely. Well intentioned first timers can often give their snake scale rot (especially if they are on bark or something that retains a lot of moisture)by spraying down the tank to frequently. It is safer to have a humid hide available for the ball at all times and only mist the cage very lightly.This is especially problematic if the snake is not kept at correct temperatures. In a nice toasty warm (85-90degree hot spot) tank, damp substrate dries quickly and isnt as big of a problem. Make sure the tank is being kept clean and warm enough. and get that snake to a vet

Good luck!
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