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Snake not eating and one eye looks bigger. What should I do?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Reptile | Python | Female | unspayed | 7 months and 24 days old

My snake has not eaten in three weeks and her left eye ball looks like it’s growing slightly bigger than her right. Please help

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on April 25, 2019

The swelling of the eye may be cause for concern. An image would help if you can add one in another post. It could be infection or trauma which should be addressed by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles.
In the meantime, confirm proper environmental parameters, especially temperature. Low temps can affect appetite in reptiles. Survey the area in and around the enclosure for any negative stimuli. This may include loud noises, strong vibrations, bright lights or high traffic. Reduce or eliminate any if possible. Cover the cage for added privacy when offering prey. If you feed frozen/thawed, be sure it is sufficiently warmed. A snake will not eat cold prey. Do not use the microwave to thaw prey.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on April 7, 2019
One of the eyes looks odd and it appears there are some dry scales or possibly retained shed on the head.
The eye could have been damaged by chronic infection or trauma that went untreated. Retained eye caps are also a possibility. A close physical exam would be needed to confirm any of these conditions.
Ball pythons are notorious for their hunger strikes. Confirm proper environmental parameters before feeding. A stressed snake will not eat and low temps can affect appetite in reptiles. Instead of a rat, offer an adult mouse. If you feed live, stun the mouse first to prevent injury. Frozen/thawed prey should be at room temp (or warmer) before offering. Don't use a microwave to though prey. You can get some used gerbil bedding from the local pet store. Rub it on prey prior to offering. This will scent the mouse with a python's natural prey. Survey the area around the enclosure for any negative stimuli. This may include loud noises, bright lights, strong vibrations or strong drafts. Reduce or eliminate them if possible. Cover the cage to provide more security/privacy. If she doesn't eat, remove the prey and wait 5-7 days before offering food again. If she will allow, look in and around her mouth for any signs of infection or injury. This may include redness, swelling, discharge or bleeding. Have her examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles to diagnose and treat any infection if you see anything suspicious.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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