Do not spray it directly on the snake. Remove the snake and the water bowl. Spray everything else in the tank. You don't need to soak it. Just an even, uniform coating. Wait for it to dry and no fumes. Replace snake and water bowl. It will also help to spray some on a paper towel and wipe it on all of the inside and outside lips and edges of the tank. This will keep them from getting out or in. Good luck...