My snake's eyes look unusual. Is bulging normal or a concern?

It may be a retained eye cap, injury/infection or could indeed by a genetic "defect". Have it examined by a veterinarian experienced in treating reptiles to diagnose illness or injury. Wild snakes generally should not be kept as pets as they do not transition to easily to captivity. They may also harbor parasites and bacteria that professionally bred snakes are not exposed to.

Hi! Great question! There has been no reason found for why bearded dragons bulge their eyes. Some people say it is because they are yawning and others say they do this to loosen the skin before or while shedding. If your dragon bulges its eye for longer than 30 minutes you have to take him/her to a vet immediately. This would be abnormal and can indicate high blood pressure. Hope this answers your question. Best wishes!

Thanks for reaching out about Fred. No, pythons do not have echolocation capabilities. Eyes can be cloudy pre-shed (called "in blue") or from infection. The clicking noise is probably an indication of a respiratory infection. check the environmental temperature and correct any deficiencies. A veterinary visit is recommended for antibiotics. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Vespira and including photos. It appears that this is a condition of restrained spectacle with fluid underneath. Mouth wash is not acceptable to place on the eye as can be caustic. Systemic antibiotics (probably injections) are probably needed. Occasionally, this might require surgery. See a veterinarian soon. Good luck.

Periscoping is normal. Most snakes do it when hungry or if curious or I in an object. "Stargazing" (staring straight up, nose pointed upwards) is of concern and may indicate serious viral infection. The lost scales may have been due to low humidity during her latest shed. You can gently clean the spot with dilute Betadine solution or chlorhexidine. A thin film of triple antibiotic ointment can be used if indicated. She should heal up fine. If it does heal or begins to spread, have her examined by your herp veterinarian.

Bowie looks as if he is going into a shed. If you're saying he has recently shed, the blue eyes may indicate infection or other condition. The wheezing is concerning since it may indicate a respiratory infection (RI). Ideally, Bowie should be physically examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. If a RI is diagnosed, antibiotics can be administered or dispensed.

She may have had a retained eye cap that came off and caused injury to her cornea. This can happen during difficult sheds. Only an experienced herp vet or veterinary ophthalmologist can make this diagnosis after a close and thorough eye exam. Lilith should be examined as soon as you can get an appointment. Keep the eye clear of debris by rinsing with plain saline several times daily until you see a veterinarian.