Constipation?

[churton]

Hi all, I have an 8 month old Mexican King Snake. I think he might be constipated. He has not pooped since I fed him a week ago. I have attached a picture. I have started giving him a warm bath for the last two days. At what point should I consider taking him to the vet?

[Aaron_S]

I don't currently see an issue with the snake. I would leave it for a bit and you don't need to give it a bath.

[EL Ziggy]

I wouldn't worry just yet C. As long as your husbandry is dialed in he should be fine.

[bigsnakegirl785]

Yup I agree with El-Ziggy, a week sounds about normal. He does look like he's a bit distended there, is that a recent photo? If so, it looks like he got a big meal and may need some more time. If not, give it a few more days. You could try palpating him and see if there's any hard bits, this works for bigger snakes, but I'm not sure if your king is too small to feel properly. Just be sure to be gentle.

[Bigtom]

From experience it takes my snakes a little over a week to poop. I generally don't do anything if it takes a little longer. I'd give it a few more days, if nothing make sure that your snake drinks plenty of water, I would not recommend forcing it to, what I've done in the past is rest their heads on the edge of the water bowl and they usually drink. This could help them to poop, unless it's like my corn snake she likes to poop on me or the floor, or other people. At this point I would not be too concerned.

[angreal]

I don't have any helpful advise, but wow is that snake a beauty!

[Tsubaki]

P.s. don't give snakes warm baths, they heat up way too quickly that way. Luke-warm is the best way to go.