torn up belly scales :(

[kuester]

That was my attempt with imgur

[kuester]

Imgur
Imgur
Imgur
Imgur
Imgur
Imgur

[prairiepanda]

Thanks for the pictures! Looks like a mild case of scale rot to me(although if someone with more experience disagrees I would go with their diagnosis). Can't say whether it's bacterial or fungal, but treatment with diluted hydrogen peroxide would address it either way. I would recommend keeping him on paper towels instead of aspen until the condition has cleared up. If he's due for a shed soon, I would expect the brownness to disappear along with the shed skin(the scales will still have a torn look to them, but should look clean)

[kuester]

Thanks. He is about to shed, second time this month. He hasnt even eaten at all this month. How do i mix and apply the treatment?

[kuester]

The aspen bedding is brand new should i really remove it and put in paper?

[Rattlehead]

Originally Posted by kuester

The aspen bedding is brand new should i really remove it and put in paper?

Keep the enclousure as simple as possible until you find the origin of the problem and he starts to heal. Consider a visit to the vet.

[Albert Clark]

Paper towels would be the way to go to slow the advance of the early scale rot condition. I would consider using chlorhexidine solution or betadine as a first line treatment. Make sure you make the appointment with the vet also bc he may need additional treatments. Paper towels should be the solid white without any printing on them. Do a thorough deep cleaning of the enclosure prior to placing the towels and the animal back in. Good luck.

[kuester]

Id like to try the in home treatment first. But have never had to do it so i need instructions. If it doesnt clear up i will certainly bring him to the vet. Also should i dispose of the bedding or keep it for when hes better?

[Albert Clark]

The bedding can be tossed. The main way scale rot begins is with less than pristine sanitary conditions. You must clean up any urine, urates, and feces as soon as you see it. You have to keep the floor of the enclosure clean and dry. Dampness is a medium for scale rot to take hold. Betadine solution should be diluted to a tea colored strength and poured into a tub enough to cover the ventral scales. Allow the animal to crawl around the tub to get the solution into and onto the scales (VENTRALS). Rinse animal and betadine off with clear water and dry.

[kuester]

I check for excrement everyday. If there's anything in there i clean it up. I refresh and scrub the water dish everyday and i replace the bedding once a month. The cages could be cleaner. Is it okay if the snake dips his face in this solution or flicks it with his tongue?

[Albert Clark]

No, that's not going to be a issue at all. Be sure to rinse him well with warm water. Try to mix the betadine in warm water as well.

[kuester]

Okay thank you very much also should i wait until after he sheds or do it now?

[reptiledude987]

wouldnt hurt to do it before and after. just to make sure hes good and clean.

[kuester]

How long should i let him remain in this solution before removing him and rinsing him?

[Albert Clark]

I would say about 20 minutes or so. Just wipe him off first when you take him out then rinse right afterwards.