BP possibly has respiratory prob

Recently I had my ball pythons enclosure dropped into the low 60's, after quickly realizing the problem I got better heating sources and the temps are back up to the norm. But I'm afraid my ball python has a respiratory infection now. I tried feeding it today and the snake did not eat (granted it's at the beginning of a shed and has milky eyes and dull skin), BUT I also could here the snake making a wheezing sound every few seconds. This from what I understand is a clear sign of a respiratory infection.

I caught the heat problem pretty quickly, and have read that if I increase the heat and humidity it will boost the snakes immune system and rid the snake of its infection. But I also have read that decreasing the humidity can help as well. I want to give it a day or two before taking the snake to a vet. Does anyone who is knowledgeable of this have any ideas on how to help the snake get better?

I'd greatly appreciate the help!

How long do you mean by "quickly"? What are your normal temps in the enclosure?

I got a higher wattage heat source within a day or two of noticing the temperature dropping (i believe it was the following day that I got a new bulb). My normal temps are low 90's on the hot side, and low 80's on the low side. I'm just thinking that one or two cold nights may have cause a respiratory problem.

It sounds to me like loose skin in the nose considering the snake is in shed. I would let it shed out and if the sound is gone your golden. If its still there then go see a vet.

I would increase the heat and get the snake to a vet ASAP.

I don't know if your BP would develop an RI that quickly. The only time I bothered my snake during mid shed, she hissed at me, and vice versa. I think it may just have been a defense mechanism. I would wait until the snake cleared up to determine whether or not it was hissing or wheezing. Hope it's not the latter. Good luck =]

In my opinion (and it is just that, my opinion) anytime you question the health of any animal under your care, a phone call to the vet is warranted. :)

Hi,

Does the animal show any of the other signs of RI?

Open mouth breathing, excess mucus inside the mouth or rubbed on cage furniture etc? Have you noticed anything funny looking in her waterbowl?

If she isn't then I would wait until the shed is complete - by all means schedule a vet visit if you feel you have reason to be concerned but shedding can cause them to make noises while breathing. You are the only one of us who can actually see the animal first hand. :)

You could also try and listen to her lungs - any noises from there are definately not from the shedding.


dr del

I would just double check temps and hudimity. If you fear RI from colder nights, maybe bums temps a little. I'd wait until the shed is finished unless she gets worse, or shows other signs of RI.

I think the snake is fine, it isn't showing any signs of a respiratory infection. The wheezing sound has stopped and the shed is going fine. Thanks for all the help! I was worried and you all helped, thanks!