Posted by:
zach_whitman
at Tue Dec 15 13:54:23 2009 [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by zach_whitman ]
Several things...
First of all mites did not cause a URI. They are completely separate disorders.
The paper towels are not really a good substrate for a humidity loving species of python. If you wet them they will get filthy fast and if you don't they will be dry and desiccating. Additionally many paper towels have wetting agents in them to make them suck up water faster. Is her bowl big enough to soak in? When you say a "wetbox", what exactly does that mean? What is the substrate? Is it solid colored or clear? Is she using it? Never comes out of it? I think that one of your underlying problems is her hydration status. I would urge you to switch to a more humidity friendly bedding like cypress mulch and/or provide a bowl big enough to soak. A properly designed humidity chamber could work too but many people screw these up.
You say that her appetite isn't great and I have to imagine that it has to do with your temps. Yes water pythons will use cooler temps but they still need a nice hot spot to eat/digest. Higher temps will also boost her immune system.
How old/large is she? What exactly are "proper hides"? How big is her cage?
If you are SURE that you saw her go blue like she was going to shed, I would recommend helping her out. It might not look like much on top but once you start peeling it will all come off no problem. If you are not sure if she has a retained shed than I would ask a vet or a more experienced herper to take a look. You don't want to start pulling off good skin.
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RE: Water python with wrinkly stomach? - zach_whitman, Tue Dec 15 13:54:23 2009