Balled Python

Question
QUESTION: I have a 5 year old 3ft balled python. The past 3 times she has shed i have seen a small amount of blood inside the cage, is this normal?? She has been eating fine,and she has a big bowl of water she soaks in occasionally. Everything but this blood seems to be normal. The snake has no cuts anywhere on her body, and it seems to be coming from her vaginal area. I don't want to go to a vet and waste my money if this is normal at all. Please help!!

ANSWER: Hello Deanna,

I have seen this before. It is when they are scenting the tank for a male. The first time I ever saw this was when I introduced a new female to one of my males. It is usually only a few small spots, but still there is a little blood.

You might also consider misting the tank once a day. This will help with her shed and maybe lessen the friction from the shed. This could also be the reason for the blood.

Hope this helps,
Eric

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I was wondering.. how often does this happen? Does it happen every time they shed after they bleed the first time? Thanks a bunch for your help.. you have helped to resolve my anxiety about this :)

Answer
Hello Deanna,

You really should not see it after every shed. It usually only occurs around the breeding season. This season depends on your area and the temp drop.

Keep the tank misted every day and see if the bleeding continues. If so then you may consider bringing her to a vet to have them take a look at her cloaca area.

Eric