Has your boa stopped eating? Is it acting different from normal? Are you worried that you might have a sick boa constrictor? Welcome to ReptiFiles’ table of contents for all things related to boa health. Click on any of the below topics to learn more.
In the wild, a sick or weakened snake is a prime target for predators, so they’ve had to become experts at pretending to be well. While this works in their native habitat, in captivity illness is often a sign that something about our care has gone wrong. So as a reptile owner, you must be extra diligent to observe and act upon changes in your snake that may indicate illness:
- Weigh your boa weekly — sudden weight loss often indicates illness.
- Keep a written record of weight, feeding habits, behavior, shedding, etc.
- Prepare a reptile first-aid kit so you won’t be left scrambling if your boa becomes sick or injured.
If you’re looking for a reptile veterinarian near you, check out our helpful Reptile Vet Directory.
Boa Constrictor Health Topics:
- Burns
- Dehydration
- Inclusion Body Disease (IBD)
- Mites
- Mouth Rot
- Not Eating
- Obesity
- Regurgitation
- Respiratory Infection
- Rubbing
- Scale Rot
- Sexing
- Shedding Trouble
Disclaimer: I am not a reptile veterinarian, nor a reptile health expert. The contents of these pages are to be used as guidelines, not professional medical advice. If you have an emergency, call an experienced reptile veterinarian immediately.
Boa Constrictor Care Guide:
- Introduction to Boa Constrictors
- Members of the Boa Genus
- Boa Constrictor Shopping List — Supplies You Will Need
- How to Select and Buy a Pet Boa
- How Big Should Your Boa’s Enclosure Be?
- Lighting & UVB Requirements
- Temperature Requirements
- Humidity Requirements
- What Kind of Substrate Should You Use?
- Tips for Decorating Your Boa’s Enclosure
- What Do Boa Constrictors Eat?
- How to Handle Your Pet Boa Constrictor
- What to Do When Your Boa Gets Sick
- Additional Resources