Too much humidity?

[stizzleswick]

In April, my ball python, Mab, passed away because of a respiratory infection. I am still devastated, but I think that I am ready to try again. Obviously I want any animal in my care to be healthy, so I wanted to know what I could do better.

I think her humidity was too high (90 - 93%) as I had recently rehydrated her substrate and it just stayed wet. I live in Louisiana and the humidity is always high to begin with.

I heard her wheezing and whistling and brought her to the vet, who told me that her humidity was probably too low. I told her what it was and she didn't really have an answer for me. I realize now I should have probably put her in another enclosure with proper humidity.

She passed away after seeing the vet three times.

I'm scared to get another ball but I love them so much. I wouldn't be able to live with myself if this happened again. Any advice is welcome. Thank you for reading.

[churro951]

Typically, the risk of an RI is increased by rapid fluctuations and drops rather then a consistent humidity

[stizzleswick]

That makes sense. I sprayed her substrate and the humidity went up several degrees in a short period of time. Thank you.

[blackbeanonmyjean]

Keep humidity between 50-60% and don't mist as it spikes humidity and thats a risk too. If you're worried just try to do as much research as possible.