Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I took my snake out to handle tonight and i noticed i could hear it breathing. It sounded like a very faint and short whistle noise. I guess it could be called wheezing im not sure. Its not very loud but it is consistent with each breath. What does this mean? What should i do? Im really worried. Thanks

Rob Woods

I'd call and make an appointment with the vet. In the meantime, maybe raise the temps a bit. Keep a good eye on him.
Good luck,
GratefulFred
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GratefulFred

Thanks. I cannot hear the wheeze this morning but he did the urate thing and there was a lot of liquid in it. Anymore suggestions? I think i am taking him to the vet today.

Rob Woods

It sounds like the start of Respiratory Infection. As soon as you can up the temps to a stable 90 DEG. 24/7 and up the humidity between 80% and 90%. I did this for three or four weeks after my BP stopped weezing to make sure it was well. To prevent this from spreading separate from your other HERPS A.S.A.P. and try to keep the temps and humidity at the correct levels in the future the prevent this from happening again.GOOD LUCK!

Thanks a lot for the advice! I have increased the temps to 90 and humidity is up. To increase the humidity i misted the tank then put pieces of plastic over the top of the screen top to keep the moisture in. Is that the best way to increase it? I had been keeping the ambient temp at 88 degrees during the day and the humidity between 55-60%. Is that wrong? Thanks for anymore advice.

Rob Woods

Those readings sound good once it gets better. make sure the unheated side doesn't drop below 75 deg. and at night it doesn't drop below 75 deg. If you have question if your snake is sick it is better safe than sorry to treat it for a RI.If the symptoms stay the same or get worse I would take it to a good vet.

Thanks a lot for the advice! I have increased the temps to 90 and humidity is up. To increase the humidity i misted the tank then put pieces of plastic over the top of the screen top to keep the moisture in. Is that the best way to increase it? I had been keeping the ambient temp at 88 degrees during the day and the humidity between 55-60%. Is that wrong? Thanks for anymore advice.

Rob Woods

I just want to say this;

After seeing and hearing about so many snakes who are blatantlt mistreated and neglected, it's really great to hear about someone who seems to really care about his snake! It sounds as if you are doing everything in your power to provide the best care for your BP. RI's happen. If caught early and action is taken, it doesn't need to be a big deal. Your snake can be fine.
Yes, vet bills can be expensive, and always when you least expect them. However, people don't seem to realize what kind of an obligation we have to an animal once we choose to put it in a cage and make it completely dependant on us. If you're even willing to take a sick snake to the vet, kudos to you!
Your snake might not need a vet. I'm a firm believer in the better-safe-than-sorry approach. It's cheaper when done early!

Again, I just want to say thank you for giving a darn about your snake! Oh, and keep us posted.

GratefulFred
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GratefulFred

Thanks for the kind words and advice. I am on my way now to the vet to have everything checked out. I also feel it is better to be safe than sorry. Haha im not taking any chances with this snake, its my pride and joy. I'll let you know how everything works out when i get back. Thanks again.

Rob Woods

Well i just got back from the vet. He said that Delta(my snakes name) is in excellent condition. He checked him from head to tail. The mouth was clean with no signs of mucous or anything which would mean a possible RI. He said Delta was a generally very healthy animal. He also said, (this part made me really proud for some reason haha) that Delta was super strong for his size. The fecal test showed no infections or anything either. Well I can breath a little easier now. I am still going to keep the temps and humidity up just incase and keep an especially close eye on him. Thanks for all the help guys.

Rob Woods

Right on! Glad to hear it!
Congratulations!
GratefulFred
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GratefulFred