What are the signs of respiratory infection in reptiles?

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

When should I contact a veterinarian?

Open-mouth breathing, marked effort or inability to remain upright requires urgent exotic-veterinary care.

Respiratory system · Updated 2026-09-21

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

Urgent veterinary attentionReptiles

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

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

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

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

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

What are the signs of respiratory infection in reptiles?: Open-mouth breathing; Nasal bubbles; Wheezing or clicking; Extended neck; Reduced appetite; Lethargy.
What causes respiratory infection in reptiles?: Bacteria, viruses or fungi may be involved; incorrect temperatures, poor ventilation and stress commonly impair immune defence.
How is respiratory infection in reptiles diagnosed?: A reptile veterinarian reviews exact husbandry, examines breathing and may use imaging, blood tests and respiratory samples.
How is respiratory infection in reptiles treated?: Treatment corrects the environment and uses targeted veterinary medication, fluids and nutritional support where indicated.
Can respiratory infection in reptiles be prevented?: Maintain measured species-specific heat and humidity gradients, quarantine additions and clean without creating persistently damp stagnant air.
When should I contact a veterinarian?: Open-mouth breathing, marked effort or inability to remain upright requires urgent exotic-veterinary care.

Record when these signs began and how they changed: Open-mouth breathing; Nasal bubbles; Wheezing or clicking. Record appetite, water intake, toileting and any medicines or supplements.
The listed urgency is urgent; worsening breathing, collapse, seizures or severe pain can make any situation an emergency. Ask the clinic rather than relying only on this category.
Ask what else could explain the signs, which tests would change the plan and how discomfort will be managed. Symptoms alone cannot confirm this condition.
Before going home, agree what to monitor, when to recheck and which signs mean calling sooner. Follow the individual treatment plan; do not copy another pet's prescription.

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These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.

WSAVA — global veterinary guidelines on nutrition, vaccination, pain and dental care
AAHA — American Animal Hospital Association guidelines
PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice