Defanging?

[Clexa]

Yay my first post..ok, well, I'm going to be getting a ball python in a few months, and was wondering if people ever defang them? I know they don't usually bite, but still, would it be ok to defang it? Or no?

[mlededee]

ball pythons don't have fangs...

[Clexa]

none of them? wow =S i feel silly, thanks

[mlededee]

they have teeth, but they don't have fangs. either way, they should not be removed.

[tigerlily]

Defanging is usually discussed when refering to venemous species, and even then it's not recommmended.

If you own a ball python for awhile, you will likely get bitten eventually. I've been bitten once, and it was purely my fault. It didn't hurt, and I've been bitten far worse by cat, dogs and even my children. If you're nervous about that eventuality you may want to find a ball python owner and get some handling expereince under your belt. (at least until you are more comfortable with them)

[frankykeno]

Your ball python comes with teeth and needs those teeth to grasp and move prey into it's mouth during it's natural feeding behaviours. Snakes aren't tame or domesticated pets and eventually everyone gets tagged (bitten or nipped). It's just part of having snakes in your life.

[Clexa]

thanks for the info

[Nate]

that goes along with all species of constrictors, including pythons, boas, anacondas, etc. Different species use different methods to subdue their prey, one method being venom, and the other method being asphyxiation, or suffocation.

There is such a huge market for small constrictors because of their lack of danger. You'll be just fine. no need to pull teeth

[ReptileFan]

If you are really scared of getting bit you might handle you bp with gloves or just get a diffrent pet. also sounds like you need to research a little more before purchasing one.

[Shelby]

Snakes grow new teeth all the time anyway.. ball python bites aren't a big deal either.