Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have 2 ball pythons that I am treating for a respiratory infection and they are becoming dehydrated. Does anyone have any suggestions as to what I can do to get them hydrated again?

Do they have access to water? They should have 24 hour access. If they do then sorry. I would soak them in warm water and they should drink.

you pretty much have to soak them. enough water to cover them about 3/4 up their sides. in my limited experience (limited , but sadly recent ) , i can recall that the animal did not go near it's water, i also noted that the water remained untouched in the bowl.
if you plan on getting meds , you should absolutely soak them at least a day before , as most antibiotics can damage the renal portal system , hydration is essential to offer them a fighting chance.
good luck , you're gonna need it.
ck

Try a bit of pedialyte (thru a syringe, feeding tube, eyedropper, aspirator, etc.) give in small doses and be careful not to pour down it's glottis.

Good luck!
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Tosha
JET Pythons

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like Tosha said, try the Pedialyte. You might want to dilute it 50/50 with water. Good luck.

If soaking isn't doing the trick & they won't go near their water bowls (usually dehydrated animals won't) you may need to get to a vet for subcutaneous fluids to be administered. It's easy enough to do at home, but make sure you have someone knowledgeable show you how first. They don't need much. Something like 1-2% of their body weight is their maintenence requirement. I've done this at work for a lot of sick snakes, particularly those who have gone off feed with antibiotics, and it tends to perk them up right quick. Hope that helps!

-Tami*