Help with a rescue that is cut a couple of times

[NH93]

Why isn't Polysporin advised? :S That would be my first go-to for something like that (but I'm not a vet, either way, and don't know what it may do to a snake).
If it were me, although I wouldn't want to stress the snake, I'd want to give it treatment right away to fight off any bad bacteria that may be entering the wounds, and keep from getting an infection as soon as possible.
Good on you for taking in this poor snake. Best of luck with it's care!

[M&NSnakeDen]

Why isn't Polysporin advised? :S That would be my first go-to for something like that (but I'm not a vet, either way, and don't know what it may do to a snake)

From my understanding, creams like polysporin can actually affect their scales. Too much moisture?

[CrystalRose]

Poor thing. Glad he survived. My only advice is keep him as clean as possible and let him rest. Maybe as another poster suggested a few betadine soaks. Thank you for rescuing him!

[I-KandyReptiles]

From my understanding, creams like polysporin can actually affect their scales. Too much moisture?

It basically turns their scales to mush.

[Anya]

Please do not use any ointments like polysporin.

I'd suggest Betadine soaks. Silver sulfadiazine is a burn cream, so I don't think that would help much.

Keep her in a dry environment, on paper towels.

One of the reasons it's a burn cream is because it's a bacteriostatic agent- it won't kill bacteria, but it traps and holds them. I only mention it because it will help prevent any sort of infection from entering/forming. It's not necessary, but it's nice for peace of mind.

[Lana's_mom]

Thanks everyone for the great advice. I will be doing the soakings and keeping him clean. Offer him a large rat pinky today and he just took it. So he is heading down the road to recovery. Once he has had time to heal I will have to find out if he is in fact a he, lol. Thanks again everyone.

[kat_black181]

I can't say the things I wanna say because I will get an infraction.

Uggggh, but this really makes me mad. Like beyond boiling point.

Good luck with him. He looks so sweet!

[bcr229]

Why isn't Polysporin advised?

They are oil-based (petroleum jelly) which softens a snake's scales over time. One application likely won't hurt but isn't something you want for long-term use. You also have to be careful to use the kind that does not have a topical anesthetic as it's not good for reptiles.

Betadine solution (Povidone-iodine 5%), mixed with water so it looks like a weak tea, works if your snake doesn't mind having a bath. If the wound needs to be cleaned sterile saline like you would use for contact lenses works well.