Gopher drooling after a bath

[icygirl]

Hi All,

I've had my gopher snake for nearly 2 months now. I have never had any problems with her... Today took her out to clean her tank, and she smelled like poo, so I stuck her in the bath - and by the way, she HATES being stuck in a bathtub, I struggled to get her in there, and she hissed at me a little in the process.

Anyway, she was only in there for maybe fifteen minutes (there was a washcloth in there, and plenty of air for her to breathe). When I took her out she started dripping lots of water/saliva(?) from her mouth. It was perfectly clear in color, but had some bubbles in it and looked honestly like saliva mixed with water. I'm wondering if this automatically signifies a respiratory infection, or if maybe she freaked out in the bath because she was scared, and drank too much water, then spit it out? There was also a small bulge under her chin, which I don't know if that is just a buildup of water, or what it is. I have left her alone for the time being not to stress her out...

So what is everyone's opinion, and have you seen this before? I plan on keeping an eye on her for a while. I will be in southeast Mass next week and can take her to see Dr. Mertz if necessary...

[wilomn]

When they drink the water mixes with the more viscous fluid in the snake.

Since they have no, I think it's eppiglottis to assist in swallowing, the cannot close their throat. Therefore, when you put the head lower than the body full of liquid, it will simple drool out, slimy, clear and thick.

It's not a problem and any snake will do it in the same circumstance.

[BallPythons9]

I've had something similar happen to me before, I thought it was RI at first too!

[CTReptileRescue]

I've also seen this. It just ended up being what Wilomn said.
Just keep an eye out, but I bet she'll be ok.
Rusty

[JLC]

Yep...what Wes said. I don't have anything useful to add...I just wanted to point out that I think your current avatar is awesome!