If the eyecaps do not shed what do I do?

Question

Im a new snake owner, a ball python and Ive been told if the eyecaps dont shed to use the sticky side of tape all the way to peel them off with my fingers,,,, Im not real comfortable doing either of these, so what's the solution for the eyes?

Answer 1

If the snake only has one layer of eye caps then it will be fine.  The next time that is sheds i advise getting shed aid or mineral water and using a Q-tip to apply the stuff to the eyes each day.  (i would use shed aid it comes in handy and i put it on my snake once a month to asure that i have no problems(per vet), be careful not to get any up its nose) Start doing this when the color fades and the eyes start to become cloudy or blue looking.  You should also think about raising the humidity to eliminate other sheding problems from occuring.

Answer 2

Actually using the tape is a really good way, but there is a trick.  Use scotch tape, and before touching the snake stick the tape to the back of your hand.  This cuts down on the stickiness in case the attached skin is on tough.  And all you do is drag the tape across the eye do not press it on at all. This is what I do and It works great.  Sometimes you have to do it 2-3 times to get the right grip.  Good Luck

Answer 3

mineral oil

Answer 4

i wouldn't use tape anywhere near my snakes eyes.  the eyecaps will probably come off with the next shed so dont worry about it until then...if the eyecaps dont come off with the next shed call a reputable reptile vet and ask what you should do...most of them will give free advice like that.

Answer 5

The best idea is to make sure that the eyecaps do come off when the snake sheds. Once the eyes start getting milky, mist the snake with tepid water every day. Be careful; they start getting nasty-tempered at this time. Have a large, rough rock in the cage so that your snake has something to rub on to start the shed.

I HAVE used jeweler's forceps to remove unshed eyecaps but this is not a technique for the beginner. The tape is fairly safe, though (to the snake; you might get bitten).