Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Baby oil (or mineral or olive oil) kills the mites simply by suffocating them. The oil must come into direct contact in order to be effective. The problem is that mites are notorious for hiding under belly scales, in labial pits and in the crevices around the eyes where the oil cannot (or should not) fully penetrate. It also tends to make the next shed problematic.

Start with a water soak, wiping down the snake with an old wash cloth. This will drown and/or remove a great number of the mites. After drying, lightly coat the snake's entire body with oil. Gently massaging it in between the scales. A lightly oiled cotton swab can be used around the head, eyes and pits. Wipe the excess oil off and return it to its *treated* cage.

Another widely recommended method that I don't believe was mentioned is the use of diluted Nix shampoo. Nix is sold at drugstores for human headlice. It is reportedly quite safe when used at the recommended dilution. I have included a link to its use in reptiles. Good luck.

T.B
Nix treatment for snake mites

I live in Australia, and we have a product called Frontline which is a flea spray for dogs and cats. My blue tongue had mites, and the Wildlife Rescue Service vet told me to spray some on a cotton ball and rub it over her skin. It worked brilliantly. Just thought I'd mention this - however, because I'm not familiar with North American flea eradication products, anyone considering this method should probably ask their vet first, in case it is not suitable/ too strong etc.

Susan