How To Choose A Healthy Ball Python (From A Breeder Or Pet Store)

It’s an unfortunate reality for anyone wanting to buy a pet.

There are a lot of unscrupulous breeders and pet stores out there.

People who think nothing of selling you a sick animal just to turn a profit.

They also tend to mistreat the animals under their care.

Naturally, none of us want to support that kind of person.

Keep reading to learn how to identify any possible issues with a snake you might want to buy, as well as with the breeder or store that is selling it.

 

How To Choose A Healthy Ball Python

Your biggest weapon against unscrupulous breeders and pet stores is information. Do your homework, so that you know exactly what to look for. The following steps will help you prepare.

 

Do Your Homework: Learn About Ball Python Care And Requirements

Every prospective owner should have a clear understanding of what it entails to keep a pet ball python as a pet. You might be under the impression that your ball python is going to be a couch potato. That is not the case.

Keeping this reptile requires a level of commitment that newbie snake owners may not always be aware of. Understand different morphs and their characteristics. Set a budget and consider additional costs for housing, food, accessories, vet bills, etc.

 

Know The Pros And Cons Of Buying From A Breeder Vs A Pet Store

Buying your ball python from a reputable breeder has several benefits. A good breeder will send you the reptile’s photos and information about keeping your ball python healthy.

If it is a local breeder, you can even visit them in person and see your potential pet. Good breeders pay attention to hygiene and follow the best breeding practices to ensure healthy snakes.

On the other hand, if the breeder is far away, they might have to ship the reptile to you, which can be stressful for the snake. This is where buying your snake from a local, reputable pet shop can be advantageous.

You can check out the reptile in person and pick a healthy specimen. The store might also carry the essentials (food and accessories) your snake needs.

 

Get Referrals For Breeders or Pet Stores

Once you have decided to buy your ball python from a breeder, get referrals from experienced snake keepers and/or veterinarians. If possible, check online reviews and ratings.

The same goes for pet stores. Make sure the store is licensed and insured. Check store reviews to ensure that they sell healthy reptiles.

 

Be Careful When Buying Your Ball Python Online

Exercise caution when buying your ball python online. Always keep the following things in mind:

• Only buy from a reputable source. Check the ball python forums and Morph Market Community to find reliable breeders.
• Research the company or breeder thoroughly before buying.
• Understand that there is always a risk that the ball python that reaches your doorstep may not look like the photos. Many times, animals get sick, or even die, during shipping.

 

Check Out The Snake’s Current Habitat

Whether you choose your snake from a breeder or a pet shop, try to visit the facility. The snake’s enclosure should be clean, well-ventilated, and free from dead mice, leftover food, etc. There should be no foul smell.

Check for proper temperature, humidity, and lighting. The enclosures should have adequate hiding areas and visual barriers. This is important to keep the ball python free from stress.

 

General Guidelines On Choosing A Healthy Ball Python

Look at several pictures of ball pythons to understand what a healthy snake looks like. It is also a good idea to read up on ball python behavior and body language. Here are some general guidelines that can help you select a healthy ball python.

 

Eyes

Your snake should have clear and clean eyes. There should be no discharge. If its eyes appear hazy, there is a chance it is sick.

 

Skin

There should be no lesions, cuts, scrapes, sores, ulcerations, or wounds on the snake’s skin. Its skin should be intact and without a stuck-on shed. Check for external parasites like mites and fungal infections on the skin.

 

Tongue

The ball python should flick its tongue regularly. This shows that it is curious about its environment. The tongue-flicking action should be quick. Slow tongue-flicking could mean that the snake is tense or scared. This is normal to an extent but if it is prolonged, then the snake could be stressed, sick, or injured.

 

Body

Your ball python should not be fat or thin. It should have a firm, supple body without swelling, lumps, or bumps. When handled, the snake should seem to have muscles. Its spine should not stick out.

 

Nostrils

The ball python’s nostrils should be clear. There should not be any bubbles or mucus around the nostrils.

 

Breathing

A sick snake will breathe in a way that sounds like wheezing, clicking, gasping, or gurgling. It may also breathe with an open mouth. Healthy snakes, on the other hand, breathe quietly through their nostrils.

 

Movement

Observe the ball python’s movement. It should not be shaking, trembling, or appear unable to move. If possible, watch the snake climb on objects in the enclosure. It should be steady. Most importantly, the ball python should not appear lethargic.

 

Handle The Snake And Check Its Demeanor

Handle the ball python after seeking permission from the breeder/pet store manager. The python should have a relaxed and calm demeanor when you handle it. It should lightly squeeze on your hand or arm.

Avoid nervous snakes that seem to strike or appear tensed when being handled. Ideally, the ball python should immediately calm down after a few minutes of handling.

 

Ask The Right Questions

• Ask about the snake’s feeding, hydration, age, sex, and genetic background.
• Ask about its environmental needs—humidity, temperature, and lighting. Find out what the best substrate is for the ball python. Determine the UVA/UVB lighting, gauge, timer, hides, decor elements, etc. that the snake prefers.
• Get as much information as you can about the ball python’s history, like breeding, veterinary information, etc.
• When did the snake last eat? This is good to know, plus what it ate and when its next feeding is due. Does the ball python prefer live or frozen food?

The breeder or store handler should be willing to answer all these questions patiently. If they appear impatient or get annoyed at your questions, it may be best to steer clear of such sellers.

 

Get A Written Receipt

Get the snake’s medical (veterinary) records, other documentation, and written receipts, if any, from the breeder or pet store manager.

It may be best to buy your ball python from a seller who offers a health guarantee. This way, you might be able to exchange the snake if it gets sick within a few months after you have bought it.

 

Choosing A Healthy Ball Python: Final Thoughts

Choosing a healthy ball python requires thorough research and careful consideration. By educating yourself about ball python care and requirements, you can make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.

Whether you opt to buy from a breeder or a pet store, it’s crucial to check the snake’s current habitat, ask the right questions, and handle the snake to assess its health and demeanor.

Remember to seek referrals, read reviews, and verify the credibility of the seller, especially when buying online.

Ensuring the snake has clear eyes, intact skin, regular tongue flicking, a firm body, clear nostrils, quiet breathing, and steady movement are key indicators of its health.

Additionally, obtaining a written receipt and health guarantee can provide peace of mind and protection for your investment.

By following these guidelines, you can confidently select a healthy ball python, ensuring a rewarding and responsible pet ownership experience.