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I need to know what is wrong with my snake please.

I need to know what is wrong with my snake please.

Updated On July 28th, 2017

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Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

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I am very concerned that your snake may have developed septicemia which is most often caused by bacteria living in the snakes skin that take an opportunity to infect. You need to go to a reptile vet right away to habe the snake examined. If it is septicemia itis very serious and needs high doses of antibiotics to treat. Sometimes there is an underlying condition that predisposes to it. I wish you the best of luck.

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    Answered By Rebeccah Wood

    Licensed Veterinary Technician, Registered Laboratory Animal Technologist

    Hello there! Spied isn't looking so great. The common reptile term for any degenerative condition of the skin and scales is "scale rot." There are quite a few different issues that could be causing his skin and scales to appear this way. Humidity and moisture that is too high in the cage can encourage the growth of bacteria in between the scales. Malfunctioning heat rocks can cause thermal burns, which, if left untreated, can also become infected. Bloodborne bacterial infections that have spread throughout the body, called sepsis, can manifest in skin lesions like this as well. There are other possibilities, such as viruses, fungi, and parasites, that could also be the culprit. The only way to determine the cause and therefore the course of treatment is to visit your veterinarian - preferably, a veterinarian that is comfortable treating reptiles or that specializes in herpetology. I realize it would be a long drive, but this might require a trip to Cornell Veterinary School. It's really important that Spied gets to a vet soon as this condition could be dangerous for him, especially if he has an infection in his blood. At the vet, Spied will receive a complete physical exam, and potentially some bloodwork. They may also collect a sample of his skin for microscopic examination or culture. Most likely, the vet will prescribe topical antibiotics, systemic antibiotics, or both. You may be asked to help with treatment by cleaning his skin at home with special antiseptics. Good luck, and I hope that Spied gets well soon!

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