iHerp Answers! mail us Problem? search Search       Create an Account, It's Free!
  Home > iHerp Answers > Belly burn on BP help!
Q: Belly burn on BP help!
Posted By:

JadeKHarley

Hello my normal Ball Python has a burn on her belly, I have never delt with this before. I am using a Zoo Med under the tank heater, but I do not have a thermostat. When I noticed it I took pictures and soaked her in room temperture water for 10 minutes and changed all her bedding (which was aspin) to paper towel. I made sure to put the paper towel on thicker where the heater is. I don't own any non-pain relief neosproin or betadine. Is this serious enough I need to go to the vet? or can I pick up something at the store to help her myself? 

She is only a year old.


Attached Photos:


Points: 250
Topics: General Health , Skin , Heating
Tags: Ballpython, BellyBurn, BP, Burn, UTH, ZooMed
Species: Pythons > Pythons > Python regius
Administrative: Show/Hide

Assisted Answer 5/23/2013 4:31:59 AM

Steadfast

soaking and Iodine or neosporin (non pain relief) should do the trick, those burns dont look too deep so you could probably get away with not going to the vet (however you should always consult a vet) do you have a temp gun or anything? I would try and see how hot that thing is getting and is this your only heat source?

 
Member Comment 5/23/2013 4:33:27 AM

Steadfast

just want to be clear you should always consult a vet 

 
Member Comment 5/23/2013 5:30:51 AM

iBaman

please get a tstat...those get to be around 120...checked with my temp gun. if you can't afford one at the moment, at least put it on the side rather than bottom so that she can't sit directly on it. just a couple tips. also, hydrofarm tstats are like $30 on amazon, and work great!

 
Accepted Answer 5/23/2013 8:33:06 AM

Sonja K. Reptiles

If the heat pad is stuck to the boottom, don't peel it off - you risk damaging it. Yes, something to control the heat is definitely needed to prevent further damage. As an alternative to a thermostat, if you are unable to get one right now, would be to get a plug-in dimmer at the hardware store like this one at Home Depot. Do you have a temp. gun? If not, that would be one of the best investments you could make. Something like this on Amazon would work.

As far as home treatment, get some generic Betadine / Povidone-Iodine. Set up a tub with water and mix in enough to make it look like a weak tea. Soak for 20-30 minutes daily and keep a very careful eye out for signs of infection. If you see such, you will want to get her to a vet.

She will likely go into shed soon as her body works to heal the area. She may or may not eat during the healing process.

I would think within a shed or two she'll be okay - providing you make changes to lower the temp. of the heat pad immediately. 

 
Member Comment 5/23/2013 9:54:23 AM

jeff tyler
This user has been muted. To see their comment click here
 
Member Comment 5/23/2013 9:57:46 AM

jeff tyler
This user has been muted. To see their comment click here
 
Member Comment 5/23/2013 12:11:56 PM

Aimee

I think putting her back on the same heat mat - paper towels or not - is asking for it to worsen.

 
Author Comment 5/23/2013 6:29:01 PM

JadeKHarley

Thanks guys!! I went and talked to my vet and found out her skin was just iritated not burnt, even so I took her off the heat mat and got a lamp. Shes much better now and I am keeping her on paper towels for now! Her belly is white again and normal as ever. Thanks again.

You are not logged in. If you would like to participate (it's free!), you must log in, or Become a Member!
  

Member Login
Forgot My Password
Copyright ©2008, All Rights Reserved. iHerp, LLC | Terms of Use 5/26/2026 8:59:17 AM | 0.0.0.0