Pet Snake Skin Problems

Even healthy snakes can fall victim to skin problems.

With proper selection and diligent care, snakes can make excellent, hardy pets; but from time to time, they are prone to skin problems. Skin problems on snakes can be persistent, recurring issues, but by being more aware of them, you can begin early, effective treatment.

Function

Snake skin is made up of thousands of tiny interlocking scales. The first function of snake skin is to prevent trauma to the snake's body and to block against infection and disease. The scales on the belly of the snake will also catch on the ground, providing traction which the snake will use to pull itself forward. The coloration of the snake skin can also allow the snake to remain camouflaged from predators and prey alike. Anything that breaks the snake's skin can lead to problems that will affect the snake's overall health.

Shedding

Snakes will routinely shed old and dry skin, exposing newer skin underneath. This happens frequently as the snake is growing, and less frequently as the snake attains its full length. Depending on their species, snakes need a certain amount of humidity in their tank to ensure a good shed. If the tank is too dry, improper shedding can prevent the scales that cover the snake's eyes, known as the eyecaps, from coming off.

Types

A pet snake might encounter several types of skin problems. One severe issue that might occur is known as septicemia. Septicemia is an infection that can cause darkened lesions on the skin. Thermal burns, from a heating pad that is set too hot, are another skin problem that a snake might encounter.

Prevention

Several husbandry practices can keep your pet snake from developing skin problems. Simply keeping the tank humid enough will prevent shedding issues. To keep your snake from getting thermal burns, do not put a heat rock into the tank, and make sure that the under-tank heating pad is turned to a setting that is appropriate for your snake. To prevent infection, feed your snake pre-killed, frozen prey.

Misconceptions

A belief persists that snakes cannot eat dead animals. While snakes will not instinctively eat dead prey, you can train them to do so. Live prey can harm the snake, either through carrying parasites that cause infections or through biting the snake and leaving an open, infected wound in the snake's skin. Training a snake to eat frozen prey can be much healthier for it.

References

• Long Beach Animal Hospital: Snake Skin Conditions
• Smithsonian National Zoological Park: Snake Skin: Beauty...and Function
• Pet Snake Care: Pet Snake Care Guide on Shedding