Dehydration

Symptoms

  • skin stays in place if gently pinched (rather than snapping back)
  • dented eye caps

Cause

  • snake is not drinking enough water
  • humidity too low

Treatment

One of the most effective ways to rehydrate a dehydrated corn snake is to give it a warm electrolyte bath.

You will need a small heat pad, thermostat, a few bottles of sports drink or electrolyte supplement (like Pedialyte), and a plastic tub with a lid. Place the mat under the tub and set to 80-82°F (27-28°C) , then fill it 2 inches deep with electrolyte solution (75% sports drink, 25% water). Let the water warm up for about 15 minutes, then place the snake inside and close the lid. Leave the snake to soak for 15-20 minutes.

Rinse the electrolyte residue off the snake with a damp cloth before returning to its enclosure.


Other corn snake health topics: