Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey guys-

I just got back from a vacaition which was 10 days. Usually i feed my boa ever 6 days, but it has been 11 days sicne i've fed him. Since about 6 hours ago he has made weird "sneezing" noises every once in a while. It's weird, this is the first time i've ever heard him do this. He is about 1 1/2 years old. I'm pretty sure he had consistant temperature while I was on vacation, because I had a friend take care of him (but he didn't want to feed him). Do you guys have any idea whats wrong with him? Should I go ahead and try feeding him or should a wait till he stops making these noises? Any help would be VERY MUCH appreciated! Thanks~

-Will

... you prepare the way for diseases. The more you restrain yourself in feeding your boa the more hardy the boa is.

I would not feed the animal until its behaviour is normal again. The sound you describe indicates a respiratory infection. Feeding your boa now would make things worse.

If things do not improce or even take a turn to the worse you need to introduce your boa to a vet. And in the future I would offer food only every 2 - 3 weeks (depending on the gender of the boa).
Boa constrictor

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Beware of Commies and Mutts!

NP

How long should I wait before contacting a vet? (BTW- nearest vet taht would know anything about snakes, i fear, is about an hour away)

But you need to see a vet asap if the condition of the animal goes worse.

Otherwise refrain from feeding and keep the animal a little more warm then normal (3 or 4 degrees above normal).
Boa constrictor

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Beware of Commies and Mutts!