Why does my corn snake have a disappearing lump in its throat?

This is an issue that people notice every so often in their snakes, but there is not a definitive answer as to what it is. In some cases it will simply be sagging post feeding or it can be associated with a shed. However, in some cases in can be an indication of disease such as a mouth infection or respiratory problem. If he appears off form to you with any behaviour change or signs such as mouth gaping or discharge, I would take him to a reptile vet for an examination. Otherwise I would monitor him and see how it goes.

He needs to be physically examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. An x-ray will likely be recommended after an exam. A fine needle aspirate may also be recommended to collect samples for pathology if it turns out to be a mass or tumor.

Internal parasites would not present this way but external ones could. Have you checked under the scales for mites/ticks? The lumps could also be abscesses or fatty deposits. I suggest you get him to a reptile vet for an exam when you have time. I don't think it is an emergency.

This kind of lump/growth needs to be ideally assessed by your veterinarian to have a definitive and specific answer. Usually there are two ways your vet can do that a part from examining it directly during physical examination. A biopsy can be taken under local or general anesthetic, otherwise a smaller sample through a fine needle can be aspirated (this technique is called FNA= fine needle aspiration). Differentials include infections, benign or more sinister type of tumors. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

The swelling may be due to trauma, tumor, infection or even constipation if the swelling is before her vent. Ideally, a physical exam with your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles would be recommended to reach a definitive diagnosis. Any treatment will depend on the diagnosis.

Those bumps aren't presenting the way burns would, but without a physical exam, it is difficult to say for sure. Infection would be high on the list. You'll need to have him seen by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. If infection is diagnosed, S will need antibiotics. Keep him warm and as stress free as possible until he sees the doctor. S soak in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte can treat or prevent minor dehydration. It may also provide some itch relief.

This is not normal behavior for a snake and may be neurological in nature. Have Checkers examined by your veterinarian or an experienced herp veterinarian. Bathing or soaking would not be recommended until the condition is diagnosed and/or treated as turning over in the water increases the risk of drowning or aspirating water.