When treating smaller snakes, and especially neonates, with PAM, Equate, NIX, etc., a slightly different approach can be used. The first and obvious rule that should be strictly followed with the use of any of these chemicals is to not spray it directly on the reptile. This also applies to the substrate as well with these very small snakes. The substrate can absorb the spray and hold it for extending periods, slowly releasing it over time. Lab studies during the initial development phase of even PAM showed that it did cause the death of some very small reptiles when it came into direct contact with the body. Most survived but there were a few deaths recorded. With larger reptiles I feel it is fine to follow the directions with regards to spraying the interior of the cage and letting it dry, and keeping water bowls out for a day or so. However, with neonates and smaller snakes, I feel it is best to allow the PAM, or other product, to stay in the cage for about an hour after spraying and then wipe the residual up with paper towels before putting the animal and substrate back in. This has proven safe and effective in eliminating mites on even very small neonate snakes. The other procedure that should be used concurrently to enhance the elimination process is to lightly spray the exterior of the cage as well, and not wipe it off, and allow the residual to kill any mites moving from or into the cage. This completely eliminates any possibility of direct contact with the chemical for really small reptiles, and although it takes a little longer to get rid of all of the mites, it does so just as effectively and much more safely with these very small snakes.

Kelly

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