Reptile & Amphibian Forums

We have a wild caught albino garter that lately has been breathing funny. She's fine when we get her out, but after about 15 or 20 minutes she starts breathing hard. Her breathing looks like 3 movements. In out in, in out in. She's still eating okay, and her tank isn't wet. We keep one end warm, with a heat rock for night heat. (I prefer under tank pads, but I'm still working on that one. It's not my snake.) She's not blowing bubbles, but I do hear a sort of "click" when she breathes out if I hold her to my ear. I listened to her with a stethescope yesterday, and I didn't hear any "rattling" like you would listen for in a human, but I don't know if that's what I would listen for in a snake. Any suggestions?

Maranda
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Salato Wildlife Education Center

My first advice is to make sure the temperatures are appropriate. This isn't too difficult in the summer, but in general hot rocks, and even under tank heaters only heat the surface and the ambient temperature isn't hot enough. (Of course this is a common problem, that isn't to say that undertank heaters cannot be used effectively) Use a thermometer to get accurate temperatures. Inappropriate temperatures are the most common reasons for breathing difficulties. Is it possible that the snake is overheating? Or to cool temperatures will lead to decreased immune system activity and upper respiratory disease. If trying to ascult the chest, try using a moist cotton ball or gauze underneath the stethscope to eliminate the raspy noise against the scales. You can also try hearing the heart, which should prove interesting as it's only got three chambers. An X-ray is really what is needed to assess if pneumonia is the problem. Of course I recommend a vet visit for your snake, and I hope this is an option for the owners.

Let me know how it goes , I had no idea albinos could be found in the wild!

Ian