Ball python swelling???

Question

the humidity in my balls cage was very low so i cut a hole in the lid of a tub and put about an inch of water in it with cotton wool at the bottom and he hasn't come out in three days and i have noticed that he he is swelling and about to shed

my questions are

1, is the swelling normal

2, is it ok that he hasnt come out in three days

3, is it ok that i dont feed him now that his eyes are milky

Answer 1

You didn't give us enough information about the swelling, or where it is, so all we can do is guess at a cause/the trouble.

A lot of snakes will soak for several days before a shed.  It helps them to get the skin off in one piece when it is ready to be shed.  He should have a large ceramic water crock in his tank at all times with clean water that he can fit in, even when he's not shedding.

You can also increase the humidity before a shed by using a spray bottle and misting the tank, or using a cool steam steamer.

During a shed, your snake can't see well.  Some get nippy and tend to strike when disturbed.  So, be careful if you try to handle him.

If you are feeding live food, I wouldn't recommend that you offer it during a shed.  Again, the snake's vision is impaired, and the prey item could injure the snake, or bite the skin, making it more difficult to be shed completely/whole.

Most snakes prefer to eat right after a shed.

Good luck with the lil guy, and hope this has been helpful.

Answer 2

ok well it depends where the swelling is. if its near his tail, he is constipated. im being serious. try putting him in a bath tub filled with luke warm water. fill it to where he can swim but isnt drowning.

some of my ball pythons will hide out for days as well. just make sure everything is right. the temps and the humidity is crucial. buy a temp and humidity gauge to more accurately monitor it all. the swim in the tub will help with his shedding because your humidity is low.

some BPs wont eat when shedding and some will. 3 of mine dont and the other 2 do. so go ahead and try it. if he doesnt want it, try when his eyes clear. if he still doesnt want it, try when he is completely done.

good luck!