soon to be a bp owner

Good day everyone, I'm about to get my very first bp next week. And I just want to ask as to what I should look for in a
Hatchling ball python to know that it is perfectly healthy?. And what are the signs that the hatchling is an unhealthy one?.
Your comments are greatly appreciated. :gj:

Good question.

• You want one that is eating regularly. Ask to see the feeding records. Ask if it is only taking live or F/T.
• You don't want to be able to hear the snake breathing. There shouldn't be any bubbles around the mouth. There shouldn't be any swelling around the face.
• Look at the scales. Are they shiny? Are the eye caps dented? Are the scales chipped or otherwise discolored? Look at the belly!
• Are there any scars on him? Are there any active cuts?
• When you hold it, does it hold onto you? This is checking for adequate muscle. He should be able to grip you back. He'll be small so don't look for finger breaking pressure.
• There shouldn't be mites on the snake. Look for small black dots on the snake. Look at the water bowl.
• Look at the overall condition of the cage. It should be clean.

Make sure it's eating. So many people end up with non-feeding babies. It's not a fun way to start...

Quote:

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Originally Posted by sho220

Make sure it's eating. So many people end up with non-feeding babies. It's not a fun way to start...

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This. It's better to buy from a well known breeder, the odds of getting a sick animal or one that isn't eating are dramatically reduced.