Red splotch

[ambawillis]

Hi! My ball python has a weird red splotch on the top and side of his body. It’s only in one area. Any clue what it could be? I’m taking him to the vet Friday.

[Alter-Echo]

Any chance of a picture?

[Bogertophis]

Need to see it, but do consider whether it might be a burn? Check cage for safety issues (-don't wait). Burns can be quite serious, & no matter what,
they're painful & slow to heal, & can impact everything your snake does (eating, shedding, & being able to be handled as a pet).

What kinds of heat are you using in his cage? Are they controlled by a thermostat? What are the temps. in the cage? (highest & lowest)

[ambawillis]

http://imgur.com/hjDSyJT
https://imgur.com/eKRh4cm

[Bogertophis]

Doesn't look like a burn to me. (I'm glad!) What substrate is in her cage? Have you tried wiping this off? Some substrates have color added, & I've seen
a "stained" snake here before that had the owner very concerned until we figured out it was just from the substrate.

I don't suppose he had a "date" that gave him a hickey...? (Could be a bruise I guess?)

[Dianne]

Could also be a scrape if there is something in the cage that has a sharper edge. Bruises, creases from being curled up, blemishes, and dirt (or poop) show up really well on white snakes.

I don’t know if my BEL is dirtier than my other snakes or it just shows more, but it’s really obvious if he’s been in his humid hide with Reptile Prime or slithered through his deposit.