Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I recently aquired a 3-year-old, 5' male columbian red tail boa from a local pet shop. (My husband just started working there and they gave us the snake because no one would buy him). He was in a 20 gallon tank for a long time at the pet shop and has just gotten over having an RI. He's been given injections from the vet and I think he is over it now.

However, because he was in such a small cage for so long, he has really hurt his nose by scraping it on the screen top trying to get out. He can't breath out of his nose now and his mouth gaps in order to get air. He won't eat, either. We have him in a much bigger tank now so he can stretch out and is away from our other snakes. I need to know what I can do for his nose. I don't think he can breath and eat at the same time so in my opinion, this is very serious.

Do you think I should put neosporin on it to loosen up the blood clots? Should I soak him even though he has just gotten over an RI?

I appreciate any advice.

Its called "NOLVASAN" You can buy the cream form. Its pretty good stuff but you have to be careful about getting it in the mouth and all. Your boa can breathe while it eats. They use something called a "protruding glotis" its found in the bottom of the mouth where the tongue retracts and it can extend out so it can breathe while eating. HOWEVER. respiratory problems can block breathing from the glottis as mucous builds up in the throat. In fact its advisable to not feed an animal with a serious respiratory problem until it can breathe better due to the fact that they can choke. My advice now is to get a little cream on the boas nose. Get a good dark hide box keep the temps nice and warm 85-90 and leave him alone until he feeds. He should come around as soon as he starts feeling better he might be stressed out by the shots and handling.

I'll have to go out and buy that cream. Can I get it at WalMart or is it something only sold at drug stores? I talked with the vet tech that treated him for the RI and she said it was a mild case and he was given 4 shots for it.

I didn't know they could breathe while eating. That makes me feel better. His aquarium is in a small room with a hide box and small bowl of water on top of paper towels. Hopefully, his nose will get better with a little TLC. Thanks for the advice!

Hi you should be able to get it at the vets office. However you dont need a prescription for it. I know that bean farm sells it. But I dont think Walmart would although you never really know lol. Click the link it will take you there.
Nolvasan cream