Ball Python Shed Problem??

[Bdubedub]

I traded my corn snake for a ball python today... I didnt notice at the time but he has retained shed on his head a bit and also he may or may not have eye caps, im not sure how to check that. Ive given him 2 baths today in warm water and will continue for the next few days. I also forgot to ask the guy if he fed live mice or rats... I tried frozen mice today with no luck. Im gonna let him settle in and try again later this week. Any other ideas other then a shed box and warm baths for the shed... warm size is 80-90 with 93 at main basking area and 73 on the cool side. He did drink a ton today... is it possible he just shed recently?

[blushingball419]

He could be drinking a lot because he was dehydrated. If the humidity was low enough for him to have a poor shed, he could have been a little thirsty as well.

Soaking and misting in his enclosure to keep the humidity around 70% is the best, and you can also try letting him slither through a damp towel after you soak him. I've heard that usually works pretty well. As far as the possible retained eye caps, if he has them they will look cloudy and should come off with his next shed as long as his humidity is correct, and otherwise it's nothing to be too concerned about.

I would suggest trying to raise his cool side to at least 77 though, and definitely let him settle in for a week before you try feeding him again

[Homegrownscales]

I would follow the above advice. The only thing I'll add on is don't try another feed within 5-7 days. He's going to need some time to destress from the move anyways. Don't handle for 2-3 weeks. Or until he Is eating regularly. But 2-3 week minimum. When you do try to Feed again I would start with a live mouse. Leave him in his enclosure. Take out the hides so the mouse doesnt get trapped in the hide with him and watch carefully for him getting walked on, hiding his head, or jerking away from the mouse, or striking without coiling. These are all signs of a snake not wanting to eat, or a stressed snake. If he refuses take the mouse out immediately and keep it for next week.

[Vypyrz]

Here is the link to a thread that may help:

http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showt...hed-No-problem.