At all times, they should be handled gently. As with most reptiles, the snake's body should be supported in the middle, with the hand or arm offered as support or anchorage. Getting a snake used to being handled is beneficial so that the degree of stress is reduced when the snake must be checked for injuries, skin diseases, etc. Medical Problems When housed and fed properly, snakes should present little problems. Problems that do arise can all too often be traced back to problems with the housing and diet.
Nutritional disorders are the result of inadequate, improper or excessive amounts of certain foods.
Excessive weight gain due to lack of exercise and overly ample food may cause constipation. Injuries, such as cuts, burns and scrapes can be prevented by assuring there are no sharp objects in the enclosure and that all heating equipment is properly shielded from contact. Injuries should be promptly treated to ensure against secondary bacterial infections. Parasites, both internal and external, are common in wild snakes and may occur in captive snakes which have been maintained in unsanitary conditions or who have been subjected to undue stress. A snake that is already weak from one of the above conditions is more prone to succumbing to a parasitical infestation than a healthy snake.