Ball Python bit by rat

[Missveronica]

Today when I went to feed him, he got bit, I always supervise and normally prevent that, however it happened very quickly, and when I tried to help, he kept pulling away (which I know is dumb.) I haven't seen any signs of blood, or any sign of a wound, but I don't want to move him and cause him to regurgitate. All my betadine and vetricin has expired, and I can't afford anymore until tomorrow. I'm trying to switch him to paper towels, though a little concerned that he might regurgitate when I move him. I know live feed is not recommended, and plan to switch him. Right now my main concern is that he's okay. How can I safely look for a potential wound without risking regurgitation?

[Bogertophis]

Is he used to being handled gently by you? If so, I wouldn't worry about (slowly & gently) switching him to white paper towels & searching carefully for any wounds to treat. You can't treat what you can't find.

Personally, I'd used both the Betadine to wipe the wound(s) first, then wipe on a little Vetericyn...until you get fresh replacements tomorrow. Expiration dates on those products generally means they may be less effective, but I'd say they're still better than doing nothing, & especially since each one is different, chances are good that by using first one, then the other, you'll have greatly reduced the chance of infection. That doesn't mean you shouldn't watch him closely- for any signs of infection like swelling. You'll likely need veterinary help if infection occurs.

Prevention is always cheaper than vet care. And as you now know, bites happen faster than you can prevent them, so I hope you get him switched to f/t or fresh killed- I know some BPs can be stubborn. I've kept my share of them.

[Missveronica]

Well I just checked him over and saw no sign of anything, now fingers crossed he won't regurgitate, he is well socialized. I went ahead and sprayed a little bit of the vetrycin on the paper towel, that may not be effective, but as I can't see the wound, that's the only quick solution I can come up with. I'm also nervous because I have to go to work now.