What Are Suitable Materials for Ball Python Cages?

Ball pythons constrict their prey rather than using poison or other methods of hunting. Hatching out at about 1.5 foot long, ball pythons can grow up to 4 feet long. Ball pythons, which roll up into a ball when threatened, are one of the smaller constrictors and are therefore easier to keep in captivity. They can live up to 50 years and are therefore a serious commitment.

  1. Plastic Containers

    • Snakes are often housed in plastic boxes such as shoe boxes, under-bed storage boxes, ornament boxes and even plastic food storage containers. Opaque plastic boxes allow a snake to feel secure and keeps the humidity high. Because ball pythons live much of their lives underground, high humidity is an important aspect of their environment. Drill air holes into the sides near the top or into the lid of the snake's home, otherwise the tightly sealed container can asphyxiate your pet.

    Glass Aquariums

    • Probably the most common type of cage for a ball python is a glass aquarium. Fitted with a locking screen top, these provide an acceptable environment for your snake as long as the tank is of adequate size. The best rule of thumb is that the cage be as long as the snake. Five solid sides help to keep the humidity high while the screen top provides fresh air.

    Home-made Cages

    • Homemade wood, acrylic and glass cages can be acceptable homes for ball pythons but it is important that they are properly constructed. The floor should be made of a material that can be easily cleaned and will not allow the snake's waste to soak in, therefore avoid a bare wood bottom. All the sides must be tight enough not to allow the snake to escape or get wedged in a undesirable location.

    Inappropriate Cages

    • Unacceptable cages would include any material not strong enough to contain the snake, such as hardboard. Materials that absorb smells -- raw wood -- are inappropriate for a cage bottom. Wire habitats are not acceptable for ball pythons for several reasons. They do not maintain the proper amount of humidity, they always have a seam that a python can use to climb, and they provide a lot of opportunity for sharp edges. Besides keeping the snake secured, the cage must prevent its prey from escaping should you decide to live feed.