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My cornsnake has torn, scabbed scales. Is a vet visit needed?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My Cornsnake has about an inch of torn scales on her back. It looks scabbed over. It could be a bite from a live vole she's constricted, or a burn from her heat lamp, or maybe a fungal infection. Should I take her to a vet? And if I do, will they be able to administer medicine to a snake or simply diagnose her and send us off?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 23rd, 2018

Hello. Yes, I would advise having your snake seen before the area becomes significantly infected. We have many treatments to treat wounds in snakes, many of which you may need to continue at home. It is best to have this looked at soon. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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