Dr. Rosie DVM

Clinical decision support tool. Does not replace professional veterinary judgment. Always verify recommendations with current references.

Ball Python Dog — Clinical Risk Profile | VetTools | VetTools Clinical Intelligence

Ball Python

REPTILE_SNAKE· Lifespan: 20-30 years

📋 Breed Predispositions

Condition	Prevalence	Onset	Severity	Screening
Inclusion Body Disease (IBD)	Significant in collections (Arenavirus)	Any age	LIFE THREATENING	Liver/kidney biopsy, PCR. Clinical: stargazing, can't right self
Respiratory Infection (RI)	Very common	Any age	SEVERE	Tracheal wash, culture+sensitivity
Snake Mites (Ophionyssus natricis)	Common in collections	Any age	MODERATE RISK	Visual inspection around eyes, chin fold, vent
Anorexia / Feeding Refusal	Extremely common	Any age, seasonal	MILD	Weight monitoring, husbandry audit, fecal exam

🩸 Breed-Specific Lab Normals

Test	Breed Normal	General Range	Note
Uric Acid	0-7 mg/dL	N/A	Snakes are uricotelic. Elevated uric acid may indicate gout, renal disease, or recent large meal (normal post-prandial elevation).

🏥 Anesthesia Considerations

⚠ Single functional lung, prolonged recovery

Intubate (large glottis). IPPV 2-4 breaths/min. Alfaxalone preferred. Isoflurane maintenance. Recovery may take 12-24 hours. Monitor heart rate with Doppler over heart (1/3 body from head).