Treating scale rot with coconut oil?

Question

I just rescued a pastel ball python literally hours ago when a pair of guys came into my job looking to sell him. I ve never cared for a snake before (always wanted one) but I could tell he was not in good hands by how they interacted with him and how freezing cold he was. I thought he was dead at first. Upon further inspection I realized he had what was later diagnosed as scale rot and had to get him away from these people. I don t have money for a vet but a knowledgeable pet store associate told me he could be treated without one and recommended a treatment for him to soak in twice a day. I m wondering if I can use coconut oil to help soothe and heal him? He s already doing so much better but I d like to relieve him as much as I can. This is my first reptile so please, no judgement. His name is Nagini.

Thea · Accepted Answer

Scale rot is usually caused by damp, dirty substrate combined with cool temperatures that lower a reptiles's immune response. It sounds like that is how he was likely being kept so his condition is not surprising.

I would not suggest using coconut oil. Scale rot can be bacterial or fungal in origin. What you need is called Betadine solution (povidone iodine) and it is available at most drug stores. It is a broad spectrum anti bacterial and anti fungal.

Soak him for 15 minutes or so in a solution of water and enough betadine to make the water the colour of tea.

Keep him newspaper or paper towel for the next several weeks and don't be overly concerned about humidity  right now. Keep the cage fairly dry. The affected areas should stop spreading and you will see real improvement when he sheds next.

? · Answer

What you should do is seek a vet check up for the snake.

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Treating scale rot with coconut oil?

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