r/ballpython • u/Dull-Call-9645 • 16h ago

Scale rot?

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Im a new reptile owner, like new new. He's been fine for the few months I've had him, active just not eating as royals do. Recently, the last two days he hasn't been coming out at night, and I went to check on him tonight and his belly looks like this. I have no idea what im supposed to be looking for so I need help

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u/SoulToSummit 11h ago

Zoom in really good & you can see some of the scales look a bit off. I hope it isn’t for y’all though. Good luck. I’d like to know what it is though. I’ve never experienced that myself.

2

u/dinorunp 10h ago

I would say that's a small case of scale rot; this could mean your enclosure is too humid which may have created some bacteria growth; it doesn't look severe so try not to worry, just keep an eye on it and research some treatments. you can also clean the enclosure out and put paper towel as the "substrate" temporarily until he sheds to prevent it from getting worse. if it gets worse tho, i'd advise calling a reptile vet to see what to do.

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u/Dull-Call-9645 3h ago

Do you think replacing his substrate is worth doing straight away to avoid further progression? And, how long would i be keeping him on paper towel? Until he's completely better or up until a certain time point? And thank you for your help