Reptile & Amphibian Forums

First, are respiratory infections contagious.
I have an adult female boa that came down with a RI. I have taken her to the vet, she is now on Fortaz and slowly getting better.
But before I noticed that she was getting the RI, I had one of males in with her trying to breed her. It has been about 5 weeks since the male was with her, but within the last week he has become very lethargic, and has lost all interest in breeding other females, when before he was extremely motivated to breed.
Do you think he may be coming down with the RI, or is he just taking a breathier. Last question, can low humidity be a factor in RI, my humidity is currently about 60%.
Thanks in advance.

Yes, RI can be contagious. I'd watch that male (and the rest of the collection) carefully and get them to the vet at the first sign of RI. The fact that your male has recently become lethargic could be a bad sign. Watch (and listen) for any signs of RI. You may want to contact the vet now and let him know about the male. He may want to start treating him early.

One other thing you may want to talk to the vet about is the effects of the meds you are using on breeding females and the offspring. Some drugs are capable of producing birth defects in the offspring of gravid females.

Thanks