Snakes have a cloaca, a common opening for the urinary, digestive, and genital tracts. By inserting a special probe in the cloacal area, a veterinarian can tell the sex of your snake. Snakes have numerous pairs of ribs. Respiratory infections in reptiles are always more serious than similar infections in mammals. Males have two reproductive organs called hemipenes.
Snakes have spectacles instead of eyelids.
Most owners buy snakes locally from a pet store, although mail ordering from reptile breeders is also common. Ask about a guarantee if the pet isn't what you want. Young, captive-raised animals make the best pets. Older imported animals are harder to tame, may harbor internal parasites, and often suffer from the stress of captivity. Avoid sick-looking animals.