Reptile & Amphibian Forums

In a past thread some one said a snake i know might have RI because she is whistleing when she breathes.
I have no idea what that is. Is it serious, or is it like a cold? and is it dangerous to people or other animals? what are the symptoms?

It means "Respiritory Infection". It's a cold and could be minor or could get serious if left untreated.

Respiratory infection

It’s serious in snakes, if you don't treat them.
Symptoms: wheezing, frothy saliva in mouth, and/or bubbles of said saliva from mouth and/or nose.
Head pointed upward to aid breathing, some say they hear a clicking sound(never heard it myself)

Any of these symptoms can indicate RI

I increase the heat to about 92 through entire cage until seen by a vet.

Wheezing/whistling can also be caused by bad shed, plugging nasal passage.

I might have missed some symptoms it’s getting late………

With medication there isn’t usually a problem.

Transmissions to mammals aren’t a concern, and I have never had a transmission to another snake in my colony either. Although, if you house snakes together this may be an issue.

TomChambers

She isnt showing any bubbles or saliava, and i belive her humidity has been to low as of late, so I think it just a shedding problem, or dried mucus. I dont think its serious, but ill keep an eye on it. Ill get the humidity raised and see if that helps.

-tyrel-

...usually a bacterial infection resulting from sub-optimal conditions, usually too cool temps and/or no "hot spot" for the snake to properly thermoregulate...

...I prefer a little bit warmer temps, about 95F at the warm end, and 85-88F at cool end...if caught very early this "thermo-therapy" CAN BE sufficient to nip it in the bud...if not, antibiotic treatment is indicated...

...best to be examined by a qualified herp vet before things get out of hand...

...do not expose other reptiles to this animal...use a disinfectant hand soap or alcohol hand gel after handling the specimen...

Good luck...

Scott J. Michaels DVM
Serpent City