Introduction to the Veterinary Care of Snakes: An Overview
The sight of a snake in the consultation room can evoke trepidation in many veterinary professionals. This webinar, "Introduction to the Veterinary Care of Snakes," aims to demystify snake care and increase confidence when treating these unique patients. Below, we summarise key points from the webinar to equip you with essential knowledge for handling snakes in practice.
Understanding Snake Biology and Behaviour
Diet and Feeding
Snakes are carnivorous, and their diet depends on their species. Commonly fed prey in the UK includes rodents, birds, guinea pigs, and rabbits for larger snakes. There are over 3,500 snake species worldwide, making it crucial to tailor care based on species-specific needs. While most snakes in captivity are non-venomous, remember that native wild snakes like adders are venomous, requiring extra caution.
Anatomy Highlights
No diaphragm: Snakes breathe passively and actively.
Heart: A three-chambered organ located about one-third down the body.
Lungs: The right lung is functional, extending a significant length of the body, while the left lung is vestigial.
Spectacles: Transparent scales cover their eyes instead of eyelids.
Cloaca: A single exit for the digestive, urinary, and reproductive tracts.
Husbandry Essentials
Temperature and Humidity
Snakes are ectothermic, relying on environmental conditions for thermoregulation. Each species has an optimal temperature and humidity range:
Use guards around heat sources to prevent burns.
Ensure humidity levels are appropriate to avoid shedding issues (low humidity) or infections (high humidity).
Avoid compromising ventilation when managing humidity.
Enclosure Setup
The enclosure should mimic the snake's natural habitat:
Substrate: Aspen bedding is common, but choices depend on the snake’s humidity needs.
Lighting: While UVB isn’t essential, proper light cycles and bulb maintenance are critical.
Safety: Remove substrate for unwell snakes, replacing it with paper or incontinent sheets for cleanliness.
Clinical Examination and Handling
Handling Tips
Use tools like towels, snake hooks, and see-through tubs to ensure safety.
Always control the snake’s head to minimise the risk of bites.
Wear gloves and practise hygiene to prevent zoonotic disease transmission (e.g., salmonella).
Physical Examination
Observe tongue flicking, an indicator of health.
Palpate the heart and check for the apex beat.
Examine the mouth using cotton buds to open it gently.
Look for signs of common issues like retained spectacles or burns.
Common Health Issues
Shedding Problems
Snakes should shed in one piece; retained spectacles can indicate low humidity.
Gently soak the area to assist removal.
Burns
Often caused by direct contact with unguarded heat sources.
Treat with fluid therapy, pain relief, and wound care.
Mites
Commonly found around the eyes, mites cause irritation and behavioural changes.
Improve hygiene and use appropriate treatments.
Stomatitis (Mouth Rot)
Caused by bacterial overgrowth, often linked to poor husbandry.
Clinical signs include anorexia, hypersalivation, and inflamed oral tissues.
Treat with antibiotics, debridement, and nutritional support.
Respiratory Infections
Signs include lethargy, anorexia, and bubbles at the mouth.
Use nebulisation and supportive care.
Viral Diseases
Paramyxovirus: Supportive care is the only option; euthanasia is often advised.
Inclusion Body Disease: Progressive and fatal, primarily affecting boas and pythons.
Owner Education
Owners play a critical role in snake health. Advise them on husbandry improvements and manageable steps to address any issues. Emphasise that reptiles recover slowly, so patience and consistent care are essential.
Conclusion
With over 3,500 snake species, it is impossible to memorise all their requirements. However, a solid understanding of snake biology, husbandry, and common health issues can make a significant difference. By applying the knowledge from this webinar, you can feel more confident and prepared the next time a snake patient arrives at your practice.