Swollen Nose on Boa Constrictor

Native to South America, boa constrictors are sold as pets all over the United States, common even to chain pet stores. While they make excellent companions, like any other pet they can experience injuries and might need treatment. If your boa has a swollen nose, there are several different potential causes--some minor, some more serious--as well as treatment options.

  1. Identification

    • Any swollen area on a boa constrictor's nose or head will catch your attention immediately, especially if you and your snake share a close relationship. A swollen or red nose on a boa constrictor is sometimes a minor issue, since snakes rub their noses against rough surfaces in order to shed their skin. This can cause irritation, redness and even swelling, especially if the humidity is too low in the snake's enclosure.

    Potential

    • The swelling on a boa constrictor's nose can also indicate the presence of a potentially dangerous or even deadly condition. Nasal discharges, swollen gums and noisy breathing that accompany a swollen nose can indicate a bacterial infection called mouth rot, says Red Tail Boas. The appearance of pus in the nose or mouth area is a strong indicator of mouth rot.

    Significance

    • Things that can cause a boa constrictor's nose to become swollen, such as bacterial infections like mouth rot, are often caused by the substrate--or bedding--used in the snake's home. Rough substrates such as sand, gravel and cedar should never be used with boa constrictors, since small particles can become lodged in the snake's nasal passages or mouth and lead to a serious infection.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Ensuring that your boa constrictor has an environment of the proper temperature and humidity is essential in avoiding health problems that can lead to a swollen nose. According to the Long Island Herpetological Society, the ambient temperature for a boa enclosure should be kept near 83 degrees F in summer and 72 in winter. Also, a water dish large enough for the snake to submerge most of its body should be provided to allow the snake to soak when it's shedding time. Water should be kept clean and fresh.

    Warning

    • If you notice that your boa has a swollen nose, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms, take it to a veterinarian specializing in herpetological care as soon as you can. Only a reptile vet is qualified to diagnose and treat the source problem causing your boa's swollen nose.