Mites?

[Jombolo]

I just received 2 young male ball pythons from a family who couldn't cope with snakes (go figure right?). Anyway, I just noticed that it appears they may have mites. I plan to change their bedding material and all that good stuff. Im wondering what type of medicine/spray people have used and liked to get rid of these damn bugs.

And a second yet unrelated question. Is it a good idea to have two male snakes in the same tank together, there is plenty of room for the both of them, just didn't know if it was a good idea. I've always had pet snakes, Corns, Gophers etc, but have never had more than one at a time, much less 2 in the same cage. Thanks

[python.princess]

The most common mite spray is PAM (Provent-A-Mite)

Housing two snakes together is never a good idea for many reasons. Cannibalism, not eating, double vet bills if one gets sick... etc...

Good luck with them!

[murray2213]

One will become the dominant, one and the other not so dominant. Bp's are not social creatures so it makes no difference who is dominant it stresses them both out. A solo world of their own is your best bet.

[twisted-wing]

It's already been said, but separate housing is best. Long story short, it'll make for much happier snakes.

As for mites, I haven't had to contend with that yet, but I've heard a lot of bad things about that Jurassic, Jurassi, whatever brand. Someone else suggested Provent-A-Mite. Heard that one works well.

[bailey23]

i have had mites only on one snake and i dont use spray. im old school. LOL. i put some holes in a tuba-ware and soak the snake in it over night. it totally works amazingly. and no i would not ever put two males in the same tank. one reason is fighting. i would say no to keeping them together.

[Wh00h0069]

i have had mites only on one snake and i dont use spray. im old school. LOL. i put some holes in a tuba-ware and soak the snake in it over night. it totally works amazingly. and no i would not ever put two males in the same tank. one reason is fighting. i would say no to keeping them together.

I have never had to deal with mites, but from what I understand, they normally do not live on the snake, and only go to the snake to feed. This is why you should treat the entire enclosure, as to make sure that you kill all of the mites. Also the mites may lay eggs, so you may have to treat the enclosure a couple of time.

Good luck.

[Jombolo]

Thank you for all the helpful replies. Would it be unwise to handle the snakes while infested with mites? Will they transfer to humans? Thanks

[Slim]

Snake mites are species spicific. They pose no threat to you. However, your snakes are probably very stressed out right now, and handling should be kept to as little as possible.

[Jombolo]

Awesome, Thanks. Will be going to the pet store tomorrow to get some mite napalm. "I love the smell of mite napalm in the morning"

[XGetSome]

Try to look for provent-a-mite. Theres many mite sprays, very few work. I recommend you read into its proper use or it can and most likely will be fatal.