Disease

A healthy specimen often overcomes the detriments that debilitate stressed specimens. So half the battle begins with aquiring a specimen that is already thriving. The other half is keeping it that way through proper husbandry technique. Most problems occur with wild caught individuals as they often carry parasites. Such parasites can be easily eliminated with readily available drugs. Left to their own, the parasites usually overwhelm the kingsnake and wreak havoc. Below, a chart summerizes common ailments and their treatments. Please consult veterinary literature for dosages.

This table only represents a partial listing and under no circumstances should be taken as comprehensive. Additional entries will be added, including descriptions and recommended dosages.

Complications Suggested Medication
Nematodes Panacur (febendazole)
Trematodes Praziquantel
Droncit
Protozoa Flagyl (metrondazole)

Caution: Toxic to tricolor kingsnakes at recommended dosages for other colubrids.
Respiratory Infection Baytril
Lesions 10% povidone-iodine solution (irrigate)
10% povidone-iodine ointment (topical)
Stomatitis 3% hydrogen peroxide (irrigate)
10% povidone-iodine solution (irrigate)
10% povidone-iodine ointment (topical)
Cryptosporidia (Trimethoprim-sulfadiazine ?)
Zonata Disease Not very well understood

The Mountain Kingsnake Enthusiast's Site © Copyright 1998, Matthew J. Ingrasci