Why is my juvenile red tail boa constrictor not eating or spitting up?

Thanks for reaching out about Sylas. Was this the first time for regurgitation? If so, give the gastrointestinal tract a few days rest and try re-feeding. If regurgitates again, a veterinary visit is recommended. Intestinal parasites or infections are not uncommon. Systemic illnesses or husbandry problems (too cold) or diet problems (prey too cold or overheated) are also possible. Discuss your snake's husbandry and diet routine with your veterinarian. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Kernel. Regurgitation can be due to stress or disease. If the fuzzy was not fully thawed, Kernel might has regurgitated due to the cold. Sub-standard husbandry (too cold environment) can also lead to this condition. Diseases such as infections or parasites need to be investigated. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Good luck.

Snakes will regurgitate or vomit when handled roughly too soo after eating or drinking, when stressed, ill or if ambient temperature is low. Just one episode is no cause for concern. If it continues, have her examined by your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet. In the meantime, confirm proper temperatures and survey the area in and around the enclosure for negative stimuli. Reduce or eliminate any negative stimuli.

Thanks for reaching out about maria Conchita. Repeated regurgitation is suggestive of an gastric or intestinal blockage. Ingested substrate (rocks) or large food items are all possibilities. A veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.

Check temps in the enclosure first. Low temps can affect digestion which could lead to regurgitation. It can also cause stress resulting in the black beard. Other potential causes include impaction, constipation, overeating (less likely with a decreased appetite) or infection (bacterial, viral, parasites). Survey the area in and around the enclosure for other negative stimuli. Reduce or eliminate if found. Continue soaks in a 50/50 mix of water and unflavored PediaLyte. This will provide supplemental heat and may treat or prevent minor dehydration. Gently massage the abdomen, front to back, during the soak to stimulate defecation. If symptoms persist, have him examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. Submit a stool sample to diagnose intestinal parasites or bacterial overgrowth. Your vet may recommend x-rays to rule out or diagnose impaction, tumors or foreign body.

Although not as legendary as a Ball Python hunger strike, boas have been known to refuse food for long periods of time. Monitor Lester's weight. As long as she isn't losing, there is likely no cause for concern. Confirm proper husbandry (temp, humidity, hides, cleanliness, etc). Survey the area in and around her enclosure for any negative stimuli. This may include loud noises, strong vibrations, bright lights or cold drafts. Reduce or eliminate if found. Make sure prey is completely thawed and at least at room temp. Cover her cage for added privacy/security. If she doesn't eat, offer prey again in a week or two. Monitor for lethargy, weight loss or symptoms of injury or infection (swelling, bleeding, bruising, discharge, etc.). Soak her regularly in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte to maintain hydration.

Thanks for reaching out about your ball python. Seems like your husbandry is good. Intestinal parasites are common in snakes, more prominent in recent acquisitions. A fecal examination by a veterinarian is probably the first idea. Metabolic disorders or systemic infections are other possibilities. Good luck.