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Respiratory system · Updated 2026-09-21

Respiratory infection in reptiles

Airway or lung infection that often develops when temperature, humidity, stress or underlying health are unsuitable.

Urgent veterinary attentionReptiles
Veterinary care setting for reptiles
Visual guide to warning signs including breathing difficulty, appetite loss, vomiting, mobility change, abnormal droppings and collapse
Changes in breathing, appetite, movement, digestion or alertness can need veterinary assessment. Collapse and breathing difficulty are emergencies.

Signs to watch for

  • Open-mouth breathing
  • Nasal bubbles
  • Wheezing or clicking
  • Extended neck
  • Reduced appetite
  • Lethargy

Causes and risk factors

Bacteria, viruses or fungi may be involved; incorrect temperatures, poor ventilation and stress commonly impair immune defence.

How veterinarians diagnose it

A reptile veterinarian reviews exact husbandry, examines breathing and may use imaging, blood tests and respiratory samples.

Treatment and management

Treatment corrects the environment and uses targeted veterinary medication, fluids and nutritional support where indicated.

Prevention

Maintain measured species-specific heat and humidity gradients, quarantine additions and clean without creating persistently damp stagnant air.

Outlook

Often favourable when caught early; advanced pneumonia can be life-threatening.