This care sheet covers general care requirements of snakes. Snakes are legless reptiles descended from lizards. This category includes a wide variety of snakes including Boids (i.e.: Boa Constrictors and Pythons), Colubrids. (I.e: Cornsnakes, Kingsnakes, Milksnakes, and Ratsnakes), Elapids (i.e: Cobras, and Coral Snakes), and Viperids (i.e: Rattlesnakes, Vipers). Besides the representative snakes listed, many other snake species fall under these categories. Snakes are classified scientifically in the order Squamata and are of the sub-order Serpentes. Snakes are often kept as pets, and are very similar in many ways. However, many have unique temperature, humidity, lighting, or handling requirements. In addition to this document, you should consult your snake's specific animal care information on the CentralPets.com website.

When selecting your snake, be sure it is in good condition. Its body should be symmetrical, clean, and free of swelling. A healthy snake's eyes should be clear, bright, alert, and fully open, without any discharge. The nostrils and mouth should also be free from discharge, bubbles, or secretions. A healthy snake's breathing is silent and can be accomplished easily without the animal having to open its mouth. Its body should be round and the spine should not be visible or protruding. Look in its mouth. It should be very light pink or white, not reddish. There should be no obvious signs of disease or infection in the mouth. Common sense should always prevail when selecting or trying to determine the health of an animal. Find out if there is a guarantee or if you can return the snake if a veterinarian determines it to be unhealthy.

When acquiring a snake it is important to find a veterinarian experienced in and knowledgeable about reptiles. Take the time to research the type of snake you want in order to help you decide which sort of snake is right for you. Read about it and, if possible, consult people who have had experience with the snake. This may also help you decide whether to obtain a wild-caught or captive-bred snake, as the two types may vary in ease of care, docility, and health. Upon acquiring your snake, it is good practice to have a veterinarian check it over for disease or parasites. This checkup should include microscopic examination of a fecal sample. Many wild-caught specimens as well as some captive bred specimens may have parasitic infections or other problems which will need to be treated in order to improve the animals' health and reduce the threat to your other animals. It is important that you do not expose snakes you may already have to your new snake until your vet has given the newcomer a clean bill of health.

	Part Two - Housing
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Please Note: This care sheet is copyright © The Central Pets Educational Foundation (CentralPets.com). It may be freely distributed provided that this notice and Copyright remains included and unchanged. We encourage veterinarians, clubs, pet stores, breeders, humane societies, and others to use this to educate people and promote better pet care. Additions, suggestions, corrections, and questions regarding this care sheet are welcome and should be directed to content@CentralPets.com