Lethargic baby boa constrictor professional#

What is ReptiFiles®? is a compilation of factual, science-based research from the best reptile care resources in the world, packaged in one neat website. I find reptiles so wonderfully captivating, challenging, and diverse that I have dedicated my career to understanding them better.

I am also currently working on my master’s degree in natural history-based exotic animal husbandry from West Liberty University! I have kept a variety of exotic pets for the majority of my life, but I have worked with reptiles specifically for over 10 years.

Lethargic baby boa constrictor professional#

My name is Mariah Healey, professional reptile husbandry researcher and consultant. If all other causes have been ruled out and the snake continues to refuse to eat and drop weight, make an appointment with an ARAV-certified reptile veterinarian. If it is dropping weight considerably while refusing to eat, that will indicate that the boa is most likely sick. You should be weighing your boa weekly to establish a baseline for the snake’s weight. Make sure you’re using a digital thermometer to check air temperatures and an infrared temperature gun to check surface temperatures (because these readings require two different tools) gauge-type thermometers and hygrometers aren’t accurate. Snakes aren’t stupid - they won’t eat if it’s not warm enough for them to be able to digest the meal. If your boa still isn’t eating regularly, the first thing you need to do is check the enclosure’s temperatures and humidity. Depending on the boa’s age, the process of settling in enough to eat can take up to a month. Do not handle the snake for as long as it’s not eating, as handling can make the problem worse. If they still refuse, wait another week and try again. Wait at least 1 week after bringing him/her home before offering them a meal. If you just brought your boa home from the breeder, expo, or pet store, your boa may also refuse to eat due to relocation stress. If your boa is a baby, juvenile, or subadult, refusal to eat is a definite sign that something is wrong, and it may be sick. Breeding season during spring (males especially).Boas are well-known to be voracious eaters, but every once in a while they may refuse a meal.