Why is my corn snake shedding so often?
Corn Snake Shedding Process. Snakes shed their skin as they grow. Their skin isn’t as stretchy and pliable as human skin, so they have to shed old skins regularly as they get bigger and longer. And, since snakes never stop growing, they continually shed throughout their life.
What do you do when your corn snake is shedding?
If your Corn Snake has retained skin after shedding you can place the snake in a plastic container lined with warm, wet paper towels with the container lid on or soak the snake in warm water. Let the snake stay in the container or warm water for approximately 30 minutes.
How long does corn snake shedding last?
Snakes shed regularly throughout their life to enable growth. Shedding usually takes about one to two weeks. Although this is a completely natural process, there are certain steps that you must take to care for a shedding snake.
Why is my snake shedding in pieces?
Just like human skin continually re-generates, snakes shed their old skin to allow for new growth. The difference is that we shed our skin in miniscule amounts every day so it is barely noticeable. The snake on the other hand sheds its skin periodically so that the whole outer layer of its skin comes off in one piece.
Do corn snakes hide when shedding?
So far, the shedding process you described for your corn snake sounds pretty normal. The snake will begin to hide (more than usual) The snake’s eyes will cloud up and become bluish. The skin color will also darken.
Can I hold my snake while its shedding?
Avoid handling your snake as much as possible just before and during shedding. If you need to handle it, do so gently as the new skin is delicate and tears easily. Depending on the species, a healthy snake can go for a couple of weeks or more without eating, and larger snakes can go even longer.
Why can’t I find my corn snake shed?
As an adult, a corn snake may shed only every few months. The snake’s shed should come off in one piece. If it doesn’t, that means that the humidity is too low. Many corn snakes like to soak in their water dish before they shed.
Is it OK to handle a snake while shedding?
What does scale rot look like on a snake?
Check regularly for early signs of scale rot: Skin or scales are cracked and crusty. Raised or swollen scales. Red, brown, or otherwise dark discolored skin, especially near the tail or on the abdomen.
How long after shedding can I handle my snake?
You can handle it immediately after a shed. You don’t have to worry much about it, after the snake has shed. The hands-off period occurs before the ball python sheds — not after. When the snake first starts to go “blue,” it will start hiding more than usual.
Is it bad to pull snake skin off?
The snake will use the box as a hiding place. Most lizards shed their skin in pieces. As one area sheds other areas may not be ready to shed. Thus peeling off dead layers of skin, which may expose and damage new skin that isn’t ready yet, should be avoided.
How can I tell if my corn snake is about to shed?
Signs That Your Snake Is About to Shed
- Its eyes turn a cloudy, bluish color.
- The old skin begins to look dull or hazy.
- Your pet may hide more than usual.
- Its appetite may decrease, or it may not want to eat at all.
- It may become more skittish or defensive, especially when it can’t see well.
How long does it take for a corn snake to shed?
Don’t worry, though, this is normal. It just takes 3-4 days after the corn snake clears up until it sheds. You may see your snake pushing hard on the glass or rubbing it’s nose on everything. This is because it’s trying to start the shedding process.
What to do when your corn snake is in blue phase?
If you notice that your corn snake is in blue phase, skip the next meal and wait to feed until after it has shed. Some corns will refuse to eat during this time (even right before you notice that they’re in blue phase). It’s more difficult for them to digest food during this time.
How do you get a corn snake’s skin off?
Let your corn snake sit in the container until their skin either comes off or softens up enough that you can help it off. This is called a moist hide. Hold a damp towel in your hands, and let your snake slither through it while you hold him. These techniques will make your snake’s skin softer. It’ll then have a much easier time getting rid of it.
How can you tell when a snake is about to shed?
You want to start preparing for the shedding process before it even begins. To do so, you’ll have to keep an eye on your snake and watch for the signs that it is about to shed. When you start noticing signs, begin to prepare. Watch your snake’s eyes. They will have a dull, blueish white appearance just before the snake begins to shed.
