In fact, some snakes, such as nonvenomous king snakes, will regularly eat other snakes, including venomous ones. Snakes may also bite one another when competing for a mate. Snakes may also bite. by Asst. Editor in Chief. Chameleon Forums - A member who does not want to give Baytril to their chameleon due to the harsh effects it has on their kidneys is able to successfully treat its respiratory infection with a different medication. Generally, snakes with heavy accumulations of pus and infected bones of the jaw are unlikely to be saved, even with aggressive veterinary efforts. You must be alert to the early stages of the disease and periodically inspect the mouth for signs of mouth rot. Its use is not recommended for lizards and snakes; it is nearly always fatal when used in turtles and tortoises. Ivermectin toxicity includes paralysis and blindness. Ivermectin toxicity includes paralysis and blindness. I’ve discussed antibiotics multiple times in this column over the years, and I’ve specifically addressed the antibiotic Baytril as part of those reviews. To date there have been very few pharmacokinetic studies published in reptiles, and with only limited numbers of antibiotics. So far, all of the studies have been done in snakes, turtles and crocodilians. Dose is 9 mg/kg IV in snakes and 10-15 mg/kg IV or IM in turtles and lizards. The only problem is that Saffan is not currently available to the private practitioner in the United States (but may be some day). Contraindicated in animals with hepatic insufficiency since it is primarily cleared by the liver. Keep up with news and features of interest to the reptile and amphibian community on the kingsnake.com blog. We cover breaking stories from the mainstream and scientific media, user-submitted photos and videos, and feature articles and photos by Jeff Barringer, Richard Bartlett, and other herpetologists and herpetoculturists.