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Ball pythons (Python regius) are one of the most popular types of pet snakes for many reasons. Not only are they lovely to look at, but they’re also quite docile and rarely ever bite . However, exceptions definitely exist and at times, a ball python may bite.
Ball pythons are not venomous and lack fangs; as such, their bites don’t hurt as much as the bite of other snakes. Nonetheless, a snake bite does warrant medical attention to ensure that it doesn’t get infected.
If your ball python bites you, does it hurt and is it dangerous? What should you do in the event of a bite from your pet snake? Here is everything you need to know.
Does a Ball Python Bite Hurt?
As non-venomous snakes, ball python bites are not dangerous from a toxicology perspective. Ball pythons also lack fangs, which further tones down the severity of their bites. While all snake teeth are super sharp, ball pythons don’t have exceptionally powerful jaws (though their strength is still impressive if they think they’ve clamped down on prey). To top it off, their teeth curve inwards, and bites from ball pythons often leave curved marks on your skin.
That being said, it would be incorrect to say that you wouldn’t feel anything at all if your ball python were to bite you. You will probably feel the effects of a python bite.
- Pain (during the bite itself)
- Scratches (more likely if your python considers you a predator)
- Puncture wound (more common if your python mistakes you for prey)
- Bruising
- Pain associated with recovery after a bite (very common)
- Deep internal wounds (rare, but not impossible)
Interestingly, the severity of the bite may also depend on the way your snake perceives your hand (or whatever body part they bite).
- If your snake perceived you as a threat or predator, they would likely bite you and quickly let go; this is a way in which they ward off predators or threats while they try to scurry away.
- If your snake perceived you as prey, they would likely bite and clamp down on you, while attempting to wrap their body around you. In this scenario, a bite wound is often worse, and most snakes may need to have their jaws carefully pried loose to free yourself from their bite
Why Did My Ball Python Bite Me?
There are several possible reasons as to why a ball python may bite you.
- Inappropriate Holding: If you’re carrying your snake incorrectly, they may bite you. To prevent this, you should ensure you’re supporting their entire weight while you carry them.
- Age: A younger ball python is more likely to bite than an older one. Presumably, this is because they’re still learning what they’re supposed to bite and what they shouldn’t bite.
- Digestive Disturbance: If you try to handle or carry your ball python a few days after their most recent meal, they may bite you (as you’re interfering with their normal digestive process).
- Shedding: If a snake is shedding their skin, they’re more likely to bite if startled, handled, or approached.
- Hygiene: If you’ve recently held their food and not washed your hands properly, your snake may bite based on the way you’re smelling (in other words, you smell delicious to them).
Ball Python Bite Care
If your pet snake bites you, remain calm and don’t quickly pull away. This could make the issue worse. After receiving the bites, immediately return your pet to their enclosure.
As a general rule, all snake bites need medical attention, even if they aren’t from a venomous snake. This is because a bite wound may become infected, which would create wound complications and delay healing.
As such, if you are bitten, you should thoroughly wash the wound with warm water and soap for a few minutes, and gently wrap it with a sterile bandage to minimize the risk of infection. After this, you should make plans to have your wound assessed by a doctor.
Please note that if your ball python clamped down on your hand for more than a few seconds (anything more than 3 seconds), you should prioritize seeing a doctor immediately after washing and covering your wound, no matter how inconspicuous or harmless the bite appears.
Final Thoughts
If you own a snake, chances are that you may get bitten. Avoid potential bites by ensuring your hands don’t smell like prey and not touching your ball python if they’re exhibiting defensive body language, digesting a meal, shedding, or if you’re still not confident in your snake handling skills.
While ball python bites aren’t painful, it’s important to care for your wounds properly. Wash your wounds, disinfect them, apply a bandage, and seek medical attention. Medical attention should be prioritized if your snake managed to clamp onto your skin for periods equal to or exceeding three seconds.
- You may also be interested in: How Many Teeth Does A Ball Python Have?
Featured Image Credit: Natnaphat, Shutterstock
