Reptile & Amphibian Forums

What happens when a snake is exposed to too much heat? If it didn't die immediately are there long term damage or concerns?

About a week ago we lost a garter snake. Last night we found him when I was baking dinner. He was apparently curled up in somewhere in the oven. I checked inside the oven before starting it up and he wasn't on the inside of the oven. The oven ran at 400 F for 20 minutes before I noticed the cat batting at the snake right in front of the oven. He had a lot of energy when I grabbed him, of course, seemed warm to the touch. He was alright though, we put him in the cage and covered it up. A couple hours later we observed him getting water, so he was still alright then. I've not really checked up on him today because I just want to reduce stress as much as possible. Is there anything that I should do or be concerned about in a situation like this?

Thanks

The snakes was probably under the oven, not in it. Probably as the oven heated up, the snake got too warm and came out.

I don't think any long term damage would have been done, unless the cat did it.
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Chris Harrison

Hi there,
I don't think any longterm damage could be done by this. However, you may want to check the snake for burn lesions, just in case. Also keep an eye on his hydration level, which you already have observed him drinking, so it is probably fine.

Erin
AHT,RVT