Ball Python

Description: Ball Pythons, also called Royal Pythons, are a species of snake native to Western and Central Africa. Pythons are not venomous, and instead use constriction to slowly squeeze their prey, very similar to how boa constrictors hunt. They can come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, called "morphs". Ball pythons get their name for the way they curl up into a little ball when coiled up. They are very shy animals and can be easy to frighten, but they are generally docile and curious snakes. As they become more comfortable, they are typically easy to handle. Learn everything you need to know about keeping a Ball Python as a pet in our complete BALL PYTHON CARE GUIDE!

How Large Does This Pet Grow? up to 60 inches (5 ft) long

Average Lifespan: Ball pythons on average live 20 to 30 years.

Basic Diet: For detailed feeding information, check out the CARE & FEEDING section of our Ball Python Care Guide! check out our Feed your ball python appropriately sized frozen-thawed rodents. Prey should be no larger than the widest part of the snake's body. Avoid live prey whenever possible. Live rodents can scratch or bite and may injure your snake. If live feeding is required, supervise the interaction closely.

Does This Pet Need a Roomate? Ball pythons should be housed alone.

Minimum Enclosure Size: Use a minimum 40-gallon glass terrarium with a locking screen lid. The enclosure must be at least as long as the snake's body.

Habitat Necessities: for full details, see the SETTING UP A BALL PYTHON HABITAT section of our care guide!

• 40-gallon (32-36" long) terrarium or larger
  
• secured screened lid
  
• daylight bulb and under-tank heat mat for heat. (Ceramic bulb and/or deep heat projector are also good options!)
  
• habitat thermometers (2) and a hygrometer
  
• water dish large enough for snake to soak in
  
• artificial/natural rock or wood hides (2)
  
• aspen, coconut fiber, sphagnum moss or reptile carpet/bedding
  
• branches for climbing and hiding
  
• food bowl
  
• frozen rodents and feeding tongs

Safety Tips for You and Your Pet:

• It is recommended to quarantine any new pet for 30 days in a separate enclosure from existing pets to observe for illness, prevent the spread of potential diseases, and to limit stress while your pet acclimates to their new home.
  
• All new pets should be seen by a veterinarian within 14 days of purchase to establish care and discuss a health and wellness plan.
  
• ALL ANIMALS can potentially carry viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic diseases contagious to humans. Thoroughly wash your hands with warm, soapy water before and after contact with any pet or its habitat. Adults should assist children with hand washing after contact with a pet or its enclosure. Use caution when handling pets, and remember they may bite or scratch, especially when stressed.

When to Contact A Veterinarian: In addition to regularly scheduled appointments, contact your reptile veterinarian if you notice the following signs:

• Hiding more than usual
  
• Eating or drinking less; weight loss
  
• Prolonged time refusing to feed (3 consecutive failed feedings) and/or weight loss
  
• Swollen joints or reluctance to move
  
• Discharge from the eyes, nose or mouth
  
• Discolored skin
  
• Runny or decreased droppings
  
• Inability to open/close mouth
  
• Stuck shed covering the eyes

Go to "find a vet" on arav.org for help finding a reptile veterinarian in your area.

Vet Assured: All pets purchased at PetSmart are raised under our exclusive Vet Assured program and come with a 14-day satisfaction guarantee. Vet Assured is a program designed by PetSmart veterinarians to improve the health and well-being of our pets. The program sets standards for the care of our pets by our live animal partners and store associates and establishes strict standards for the monitoring and prevention of common illnesses found in pets. PetSmart makes a significant investment in the care of our pets and it is apparent in the quality and comfort of the pets in our stores. However, if your pet becomes ill during this initial 14-day period, or if you're not satisfied with your pet for any reason, PetSmart will gladly replace the pet or refund the purchase price. Please keep your sales receipt and return the pet to the store where it was purchased if needed.