Ball pythons with upper respiratory infections sometimes make popping sounds from their throat. Other signs of an infection include a swollen neck under the jaw; excessive saliva; when you open the mouth -- saliva that is bubbly; breathing with the jaws slightly open; and long "scabs" that can look a bit like wood bedding, "stuck" inbetween the snakes lips.



Increasing the air temp, making sure there is a warm, under tank, basking area as well as a cooler area your Ball Python can retreat to so it can regulate its temperature (by going to one side of the cage or another) is very important. Also, Ball Pythons do require some humidity, and a lack of humidity can contribute to an upper respiratory infection. If you're using a typical glass terrarium with screen top set up, you might want to cover 9/10ths of the top with plastic wrap so air can still freely enter the cage, but so more moisture will be retained. You may also want to lightly mist the cage to increase humidity (but don't over do it and avoid directly misting the snake).



Sometimes simply increasing the heat and humidity in your terrarium will help the snake fend off an infection, especially if you've caught it early on. In other instances, medical treatment is required. A Vet visit is recommended to evaluate your snakes medical condition. If necessary, there are a couple injectable medications available. Baytril is pretty effective.



Best wishes to you and your Ball Python.

Joe

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