How to Handle Snake Skin Shedding

It is perfectly normal for snakes to shed their skin several times over the course of the year. Most snakes shed about four times a year, but younger snakes are expected to shed more often. If you own a pet snake, you'll have to learn how to handle it when your snake starts shedding the skin.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Look for the signs of shedding. You'll want to learn how to anticipate when the snake is about to shed its skin. Notice the appearance of the eyes; they may appear cloudy. Additional signs include lack of appetite and less activity.

2. Check the humidity level in the snake's terrarium. Once you know that the snake is about to shed, make sure that their environment is moist. This helps them shed their skin more easily.

3. Examine the skin once the snake has finished shedding. For the most part, you should see the skin in one piece. Incomplete sheds and shedding in many small pieces may indicate a problem with the snake.

4. Offer plenty of water after the shed. Many snakes are thirsty once shedding is complete and may consume large quantities of water.

5. Put on gloves and remove the skin from the snake's habitat. When handling skin from the snake, you are at risk of salmonella infection. Wear gloves when you dispose of the skin and wash your hands afterwards.

Tips & Warnings

• You may notice that the snake's first shed at your home is problematic. This is nothing to be concerned over and is attributed to the snake adjusting to its new environment.
• If your snake is having trouble shedding its skin, you can help it along. For larger snakes, you can emerge the reptile in warm water and rub their skin gently.

[Lucylemonpip]

on 10/13/2008 If you snake isn't shedding it's skin complete and it's coming off in pieces, the most likely reason is that the humidity in his tank is too low. Increase the humidity by spraying water over the plastic or silk plants or/and, you can put some damp spagnum moss in his/her cave. This added humidity, will make the skin more supple and easier for your snake to climb out of. I usually increase my snakes tank humidity when his eyes have clouded over, until the time that he sheds.