I think my snake is dying?

[BPTexas_Pete84]

Hi, I have a baby spinner ball python I've had it 2 months from ben Siegel it was doing fine the last month it has slowed down on eating every now and then I hear a hiss type gasp for air sound and it doesn't really grip any more when we take him out he just sits there he moves around his tub but not when he is out and I have to make him swim n tub then he goes on his own. Also I can wave my hand or move his head and he doesn't move like he is already dead

[BPTexas_Pete84]

Also I have other snakes and they are doing fine. I'm just wondering if anyone knows what this is that's happening

[mechnut450]

Sounds like an RI . or going to shed (notice it having pink belly or a bluish eyes) recently. also check your temps with the winter weather some additional heating may be needed to keep at proper temps.

[Bigfish1975]

That sucks, I'm sorry to hear the little one is sick.Judging by your list of BP's, it looks like you're no newbie so I won't ask about husbandry. Does he seem to have any RI symptoms? If so, I'd get him away from the rest of the collection. Good luck, I home he turns around.

[shadowsnakes]

Agreed, sounds like RI. Take care of that little one!

[bcr229]

There are some exotic animal vets in your area on this list: http://www.vaherps.com/t853-find-an-herp-vet

[Physician&Snakes]

Hi, I have a baby spinner ball python I've had it 2 months from ben Siegel it was doing fine the last month it has slowed down on eating every now and then I hear a hiss type gasp for air sound and it doesn't really grip any more when we take him out he just sits there he moves around his tub but not when he is out and I have to make him swim n tub then he goes on his own. Also I can wave my hand or move his head and he doesn't move like he is already dead

Are we talking about a gasp or just a solid wall of air? I have treated a lot of RI in the past and it took a few unintentional quarantines before I realized some specimens just have a "heavy" hiss. The main thing about breathing in RI is there is a definite inhibition, the breath is fighting against something, usually mucous &/or inflammation. It helps to sometimes use a stethoscope, I have a basic cardio scope for such occasions...~$28 shipped. If you are unsure then yes I recommend putting him in quarantine, which he may still be in considering he has only been with you 2 months, and elevate his ambient temps to ~91F with lots of humidity. This is how I always treated minor and moderate URI, the 90s temps stimulates the lymphatic system while the extra humidity provides constant hydration and aids in withholding the heat.