One of the most commonly recognized parasites of snakes is another protozoan, Trichomonas. sp. This organism is often noted in the stools of snakes when routine direct examinations are undertaken. Infection with Trichomonas. sp. May result from ingestion of mice and rats both of which often harbor the parasite without showing signs of illness.

Infected snakes may exhibit no symptoms or those associated with gastrointestinal disease (inappetence, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.). Some infected snakes may suffer the complications of secondary bacterial disease as well.

Some experts remain unconvinced that this parasite, by itself, is capable of producing disease in snakes because infected snakes are often suffering from amoebiasis at the same time. We believe that the most prudent course of action is to treat all snakes harboring the parasite. A veterinarian should be consulted regarding diagnosis and treatment of this disease.