Shedding snakes: How can you care for your snake?

Humans and many other animals shed numerous skin cells daily.

In contrast, snakes and other reptiles have keratin skin that doesn’t shed gradually.

Instead, they grow a new layer of skin beneath the old one.

The old, top layer is then shed all at once.

Snakes typically go through the shedding process multiple times per year.

So, how do you care for shedding snakes?

ALSO READ: What are the most famous pets of all time?

HOW TO CARE FOR SHEDDING SNAKES

It may be tempting to assist a shedding snake, but pulling at the skin can cause harm and distress.

You can’t physically accelerate the shedding process.

You can provide nutritious food and maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels in the snake’s vivarium.

If the shed seems stuck (over 2 weeks or with patches of skin remaining), moisten the snake’s substrate.

You can use a water spray to saturate the vivarium floor, which lubricates the skin and increases humidity, aiding the shedding process.

HOW OFTEN DO SNAKES SHED?

Snakes do not shed at a specific time or season; they shed multiple times throughout the year.

The shedding frequency of your snake depends primarily on its size and age.

Young snakes shed more frequently than older ones due to their faster growth and the need for larger skin.

Younger snakes typically shed every 2-3 weeks.

On the other hand, older snakes may only shed twice a year.

Do you have a pet video or picture you’d like to share with The South African?

If so, email info@thesouthafrican.com or WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

On average, snakes take around 1 to 2 weeks to complete the shedding process.

The time it takes for a snake to shed depends on its age.

Young snakes typically finish shedding within a week, while older snakes may take up to 2 weeks.

Some snakes shed their skin in one piece, while others shed it in sections.

In the wild, most snakes do not consume their shed skin, but pet snakes may do so if food is not readily available.

Eating the shed skin helps replenish lost nutrients during the shedding process, and it’s generally not a cause for concern.