I need help asap!

[sara]

Hi.
I recently acquired some new adult female ball pythons, and one of them had mites. I have been really busy with exams so I asked my brother to treat the snake. He was supposed to use provent-a-mite but he couldn't find it so he used tea tree oil/water instead. The snake is now unconscious, but is starting to become more responsive. I am also starting to notice swelling and an odour coming from its stomach/liver area (about 1/3 down the length of the snake). I'm not sure whether the swelling is from a rancid prey item or the liver trying to process the tea tree oil (i am assuming that the oil is toxic to the snake). If anyone could give me their opinion i would really appreciate it. I haven't taken it to a vet, because I can handle any procedure myself. I'm just looking for a course of action.
Thanks
sara

[Corey Woods]

Sara,

From what you describe I wouldn't be surprised if your ball dies. Don't know what the remidy for tea oil would be.........I'd just try and wash it all off (I think that's about the only thing you can do). I would definately take him to the vet (if infact she is still alive in the morning).

If the liver and stomach is smelling rancid then the oil may have cooked them. If you notice a black blotch develop on the stomach then that means the liver has failed and you snake is going to die.

Good Luck,
Corey Woods
P.S. Take your ball to the vet...........doesn't sound like you have enough experience to handle things yourself!

[sara]

Yeah, I think that's a good idea. I have a solid ammount of experience with b.p.'s, but I should get her to a vet tomorrow anyway. She seems to be improving because she managed to regurgitate the item and is starting to move around better. It also looks like her liver is functional which is a huge relief.
Thanks for the advice, I really appreciate it.

sara