How to Bathe a Snake

There are a number of reasons to bathe a pet snake, and really, it's quite easy as most snakes love soaking in a warm tub now and then. Bathing your snake helps relieve constipation, kills mites and promote shedding if the skin does not easily slough off on it's own. With a few simple tricks and some tender loving care, you will have one clean, happy snake in no time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Spring or filtered water
• Bath tub or large container
• Thermometer
• Clean, soft towel

1. Warm enough clean spring or filtered water to fill your bath tub or bathing container about four inches. It is important not to use chlorinated water, as it can irritate your snake's skin. Snakes are sensitive to temperature, so use a thermometer to ensure that the water is between 100 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Pour the warm water into a clean bath tub or large container. Bath tubs work best, as your snake will love swimming around and stretching out; however, if you have a dangerous snake you can fill a container with water and carefully place it inside of your snakes habitat. Most snakes will very quickly bath themselves.

3. Gently place your snake into the bath, and allow him to swim freely for 10 or 15 minutes.

4. Pick up your snake when she is done cleaning herself and gently dry her with a clean soft towel before returning her to her habitat.

Tips & Warnings

• Bath your snake only when necessary, such as right before shedding, if your snake appears constipated or if your pet has a mite infestation.
• Before shedding, your snakes eyes will become slightly milky. About 24 hours before full shed, the eyes will clear. This is the perfect time to promote easy shedding by bathing your snake.
• If you notice that your snake appears bloated, lethargic and/or has lots her appetite, she may be constipated. A warm bath can help to stimulate defecation. If the bath does not relieve symptoms, see a reptile specialist.
• There are medicated powders and solutions available that you can add to bath water to help treat severe infestations of mites. Be sure to clean the snake's habitat thoroughly before returning him.
• While bathing a snake can help the skin to slough, you should never pull on shedding skin. Let the skin come off on it's own.