Snakes are often considered some of the most interesting and exotic pets that one can own. They can make great cold-blooded companions for first time reptile owners. With regular handling, most species can become quite tame and make good pets. But they are not for everyone. Snakes will need to be fed killed, prefrozen prey (often rats, mice, chicks or even rabbits). They are also great escape artists, so their enclosure must be secure. Do your research before purchasing a snake to make sure their temperament and eventual size is appropriate for your needs.
Snake husbandry is critical to their well being. Snakes come from many regions of the world and as such, their temperature and humidity requirements vary widely. They must be provided with appropriate bedding, an appropriate temperature gradient, and a hide box to thrive.
Common signs of illness include:
change in behavior including inactivity or aggression
weakness
weight loss
nasal discharge
crusty nostrils
difficulty breathing
retained eye caps
failure to shed properly
change or redness in skin color
failure to grow properly
not eating or decrease in appetite
swelling or odor from the mouth
regurgitation or vomiting
constipation or loose stools
cloacal prolapses
If any of these signs develop please make an appointment to have them evaluated.
Common diseases in pet snakes include:
internal parasites
external parasites
mouth rot (stomatitis)
respiratory infections
pneumonia
retained shed or eye caps
viral diseases (such as IBD)
bacterial and fungal skin infections
septicemia
cloacal prolapse
bite wounds from live prey
Follow these links for for information on various snake diseases:
INCLUSION BODY DISEASE (IBD)
CRYPTOSPORIDIOSIS IN LIZARDS AND SNAKES
RETAINED SPECTACLES
CLOACAL PROLAPSE IN REPTILES
COCCIDIA PARASITES IN REPTILES
Enjoy the care sheets provided by Reptile Magazine in the species that interests you:
BALL PYTHON CARE SHEET
COLOMBIAN BOA CARE SHEET
GOPHER SNAKE CARE SHEET
RAINBOW BOA CARE SHEET
ROSY BOA CARE SHEET
CORN SNAKE CARE SHEET