There are few animals capable of arousing such opposite emotions as snakes. While some people are afraid just by looking at a photo of a specimen, others are passionate about these reptiles of imposing presence and particular beauty. There are even those who choose to have a snake as a pet and share their daily lives with these animals.
Incomplete moult in snakes (Disecdysis)
Moulting problems in snakes are not a disease in themselves, but can appear as a symptom of some disorders of the organism. Likewise, incomplete moult, known as " disecdysis" must be treated quickly so as not to cause infections or skin problemschildren.
Although there are several possible causes for shedding problems, they are usually associated with nutritional deficiencies that appear when the snake's diet is unbalanced or inappropriate. Therefore, before adopting a snake as a pet, it is essential to know its nutritional needs and to have the guidance of a veterinarian specialized in exotic animals.
However, incomplete molt can also appear as a symptom of an underlying infectious process and even be related to the presence of ectoparasites on the body of the snake. Therefore, when you notice that your snake has a problem during its skin change, remember to quickly take it to the veterinary clinic specialized in exotic animals.
Respiratory diseases in snakes
As we explained earlier, a mite infestation in the snake's body can cause respiratory diseases. However, there are also other possible causes, such as problems of moisture in the environment, stress and improper handling by the caretaker that can damage the snake respiratory system Respiratory tract infections in snakes can sometimes appear as a symptom of septicemia
In general, the symptoms derive from the difficulty of breathing caused by the pathology or derived from it. For example, the snake may begin to breathe with its mouth open, or make a kind of hissingduring inspiration and expiration.
Respiratory pathologies in snakes are usually quite aggressive and cause a rapid decline in their he alth. For this reason, veterinary attention must be immediate in order to establish an effective and appropriate treatment for the symptoms of each animal.
Eye Problems in Snakes
The eyes of snakes can be affected after an accident or due to improper handlingof the breeder. However, eye infections can also result from a poor drainage that causes the accumulation of lubricating fluid and consequent increase in intraocular pressure (something similar to what happens in glaucoma).
In addition, a poor hygiene of the habitat usually favors the accumulation of dirt, which can enter the snake's eye, causing injuries and irritations that can lead to an eye infection. Therefore, maintaining optimal grooming and conditioning of the animal's environment is essential care to prevent numerous diseases.
The treatment for eye problems will depend on the previous diagnosis made by the veterinarian. Depending on the he alth status and symptoms of each patient, topical antibiotics (usually with eye drops) or injections may be administered to eliminate bacteria from the animal's body.
Common diseases in snakes: Blister
Although less well known than other snake diseases, Blister is diagnosed with some regularity in captive-bred reptiles. It is a infectious pathology, whose main initial symptom is redness of the lower part of the animal's body (in the scales, mainly).
Blister can have multiple causes, but it is usually related to humidity problems or a toilet deficient in the environment of the snake. That is to say: the majority of reptiles diagnosed with Blister have been raised in excessively humid and/or dirty environments.
When not treated quickly, the reddened scales become inflamed and swollen. At this stage, there is a high risk of developing secondary infections caused by fungi or bacteria. Therefore, if you have a pet snake and you notice that its skin is irritated or altered, we recommend quickly consulting a veterinarian who is an expert in exotic animals.
The treatment for Blister in snakes will depend on the state of he alth and the specific symptoms of each animal. However, they usually involve the use of topical antibiotics to combat infection in the scales. In more advanced cases, antibiotics may need to be given by injection.
Of course, both prevention and treatment for this pathology requires reinforcing hygiene habits and better conditioning of the snakes' habitat.
Boca Rot (infectious stomatitis)
In snakes, stomatitis, better known as "Mouth Rot", consists of an infectious process caused by bacteria. When the inner lining of a snake's mouth becomes inflamed, it can lead to collection of pus in the gums and between the teeth If not treated quickly, the infection progresses, the bacteria reach the bone and can cause the loss of a tooth.
Usually the first symptom of infectious stomatitis in snakes is excessive production and secretion of saliva. As the disease progresses, new symptoms may appear, such as:
- Small pinpoint bleeding concentrated around the mouth
- Signs of rot
- Teeth loss
As the infectious process spreads rapidly, early diagnosis is the key to a better prognosis of Rot Mouth. Therefore, do not hesitate to consult the specialized veterinarian when you observe any change in the behavior or appearance of your snake.
Burns
Although snakes love the heat, their unparalleled beauty skin is very sensitive to solar radiation. Therefore, excessive exposure to artificial or natural light can cause burns and skin inflammation, which can also lead to the development of secondary infections.
External parasites and associated problems
Snakes can be affected by external parasites, mainly ticks and mites Usually, snakes that come into contact with these ectoparasites share their environment with other animals, such as dogs, cats, cows, sheep, etc. Or when they do not have a properly sanitized and conditioned habitat to provide optimal conditions for their development.
In general, ticks are easier to recognize and fight than mites. For this reason, it is easier to eliminate them quickly so as not to generate secondary effects in the organism of the snakes. However, mites are difficult to identify, reproduce very quickly and often cause he alth complications for snakes.
When the mites burrow into the snake's skin and begin sucking its blood to feed, they "shunt" essential nutrients that the animal needs to be he althy and strong. They can then cause nutritional deficiencies, anemia and a weakened immune system
An animal with low immune defenses becomes more vulnerable to numerous diseases. In more advanced mite infestations, the snake may have its respiratory system and vision compromised. In addition, cases of skin allergies associated with the presence of mites are relatively frequent.
Internal parasites and diseases in snakes
The body of snakes can also be internally affected by various endoparasites, such as worms and protozoa, for example. tapeworms and nematodes (roundworms) are endoparasites found with some frequency in captive-bred snakes. Both are parasites of the digestive system that can cause complications when not treated properly and manage to reach the bloodstream, spreading through the body's tissues and affecting other organs (the lungs, most often).
On the other hand, among the pathologies caused by protozoa, we find trichomoniasis and amebiasis. Next, we present a little better the symptoms of these diseases in snakes:
- Trichomoniasis: This is an infectious process caused by a protozoan called Trichomonas. The most frequent form of contagion is through the consumption of mice infected by said endoparasite. Its main symptoms are: diarrhea, vomiting and loss of appetite. Infected snakes often suffer from a weakened immune system, and can develop secondary bacterial infections.
- Amoebiasis: is among the most common diseases in captive-bred snakes. It is a highly contagious infectious pathology that is caused by some species of amoebas (unicellular microorganisms with parasitic habits). The main form of contagion is the ingestion of contaminated food or water. Entering the snake's body, amoebas concentrate in the liver and intestinal mucosa. Therefore, the symptoms are similar to those of a gastrointestinal infection, such as vomiting, diarrhea, smelly stools that may be accompanied by blood or mucus, apathy and lack of appetite. Many infected animals can develop secondary bacterial infections due to a weakened immune system.
Having said all this, it is crucial to highlight the importance of respecting the periodic deworming in snakes and offering them adequatepreventive medicine In addition, visits every 6 months to a veterinarian who is an expert in exotic animals will be important to monitor their he alth status and prevent these pathologies.
