Originally Posted by Bee101
So, I recently got a Mandarin ratsnake. I purchased him on Saturday at a reptile expo and as of Wednesday he is showing what I believe to be advanced signs of a respiratory infection (clicking noises and gaping). Is it safe to assume he was sick when I bought him? How long does it take for symptoms to appear usually? I just feel so bad, I checked him over before purchase and nothing stood out as abnormal.
He has a vet appointment on Monday. If it is a respiratory infection, should I contact the seller? Should I expect anything from them or should I consider it a lost cause? This was a relatively pricey snake for me and I feel like he hasn't been in my care long enough for it to be anything I've done. But, I understand expos are stressful for the animals.
This is my first experience with a sick animal and it feels horrible. He's so smallI did lots of research and felt fully prepared going into it but now I feel kind of overwhelmed. I would be grateful for any tips or opinions on the matter. I still consider myself rather new to the hobby and not very well versed in seller/buyer etiquette. If that makes sense.
Also, is there anything I can do in the meantime to help him out?
Hi. How was your Mandarin?!
Mine is doing the exact same thing as you describe now–a Mandarin.
Wondering if it's behavioural but it's new behaviour.
I've been Nebulising with F10.
