Trying to clean enclosure!

[Caitlin]

Please, please don't hear what I am about to say as having any judgmental or unkind tone - I know text is stark and I know you are doing your best. But I have to say that what I am reading here makes it clear that this is a tough situation - you're overwhelmed in terms of space and finances; you suddenly have an adult snake and you're inexperienced, uncertain, and a bit fearful about it; the snake is extremely stressed because its housing situation is less than ideal, the cats are likely keeping it in a state of fear (cats and snakes are a bad mix), you don't have enough time to keep it as clean as it should be so eventual health problems are likely between that and the ongoing stress, and you are about to add a new baby to this whole mix.

Just re-reading all of that tells me that for the sake of you, your family, and the snake, it might be a better idea to pass the snake on to a local reptile rescue group for re-homing. If you or your daughter really want a snake, that's great. Do it later, and start with a younger snake or a smaller species. Everyone here would support you along the journey - it's just that this time, under these circumstances, and with this snake, don't seem like the way to start.

Again, no judgment here because I know you are trying really hard - but I believe re-homing is the best option for all involved right now. There is NO shame in acknowledging that this just isn't the right time. I think many of us here have had to do the same at one point or another in our lives as keepers.