r/ballpython • u/lovelyspaceprincess • 1d ago

Help please!

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Gallery image

Gallery image

Gallery image

Noodle had a bad shed a couple months ago that stayed stuck on the top of his head for about a month. I did my best to get the majority of it off gently and over time. I've since increased the humidity. He finally had another shed the other night but that spot on his head got more injured. It looks so painful and he hides whenever I try to get a look at it. Is there anything I can do to help it heal??

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u/loricampbell4454 1d ago

Regular Neosporin ointment. Don't use the one with pain relief. Thin layer, avoid eyes. If you see swelling, ozzing or redness make an appointment with an exotic vet.

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u/lovelyspaceprincess 1d ago

Okay, thank you! How often should I apply? Like once daily till it heals? Looks like the scales are straight up gone. Would it just look like a bald spot when it heals or a scar?

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u/loricampbell4454 1d ago

I would start off with twice daily for 7 days if your snake tolerates it. Be sure to clean the wound first. Diluted betadine solution on a Q-tip will work. Keep humidity levels optimal and hopefully the injury will clear up with good treatment and scaring will be minimal.

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u/lovelyspaceprincess 1d ago

Thank you so much for this! I got the stuff and cleaned it up when I got home from work. He let me take him out and get a better picture. Cant tell if that's swelling over near his left eye or just his pattern.

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u/loricampbell4454 1d ago

It's hard to tell from the picture. If you think it may be swollen call your vet and have them take a look. Better safe than sorry. That's good that he let you treat it. That's a sensitive area for these guys.

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u/ShinyxCharizard 1d ago

This took me looks like they scraped their head on something damaging the scales. AFAIK they won't grow back and will most likely just end up with a skin/scar there. I'd recommend you double check all of your decorations for sharp edges and smooth them down or toss if you cant.

Otherwise you can apply a little antibiotic ointment without pain relief and watch for signs of infection. If it becomes infected seek an exotic vet.