Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My adult male black pine has always been a reliable eater. But for the last three months, he regurgitates everything he eats two days after he eats it. He's losing weight and I'm concerned. Not sure what to do, any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.

Assuming he is not too cold or conversely too warm it is likely suffering from overgrowth of flagelettes in the gut. These are one celled parasites commonly contracted from dirty water or alive in a food item. Common cure is Metronidolzole aka "Flagyl", a brand name. It would be best to supply a vet with a fresh, wet stool sample to look at under a microscope. If present it looks like everything is totally spastic as they move.

Thank you for the response Shadow. Can I buy flagyl over the counter and administer it myself? How much would you give an adult pine snake?

Kevin

You may be able to find it where tropical fish are sold as far as over the counter goes. Branded as "Heximet" or similer as I recall. Metronidozole is a good antibacterial agent in the anaerobic side of things; i.e. In a lack of oxygen. Sold in sugar laced nasty tasting liquid in third world for such things as Montezuma's revenge. Has been years since I have had occasion to use it. You can google something like "Flagyl dose for my Cornsnake" or something along those lines for peoples thoughts on milligram doses. It is regarded as having a wide range of safety. While you're at it try a very small, easy to digest food item like a fuzzy rat and see if that stays down. Less hair to deal with.

Thank you Shadowguy. You've given me some avenues to look into.