Most diseases and parasites are difficult for the armature to diagnose. It is better to approach the issue from the angle of of prevention; select a healthy snake and keep it healthy with a good diet and hygienic cage conditions. However, we will consider just a couple of common problems.

 The first is external parasites, namely mites and ticks. If you have to deal with them, cut a 2.5cm (1in) square piece of Vapona fly killer and hand it in the cage inside a perforated plastic box or anything else that lets the insect site out but prevents the snake from coming in direct contact with it. All the mites or ticks will die in a few days and the insecticide can be removed. An alternative to use is a pyrethrin-based spray specially made for reptiles.