Open mouth Jackson's

[vistajpdf]

My Jackson's mouth has been open during the day. I thought it was excessive heat. I turned the lamp off and he closed his mouth. However, when I went home and checked on him at lunch, it was open and the lamp was off. I put the lamp on and moved it to the farthest corner. My guages are broke again and I just posted an inquiry into a good temp gun. Neither the temp nor humidity could possibly be correct. I gave the cage a good misting and he closed his mouth. He's eating and drinking well. The cage is a custom built tank with glass on three sides and a screen door and lid. There are live (pothos) and fake vines and plants.

Thanks for any input.
Dana

 

[deadhd5]

It is hard to say... They open their mouths to regulate body temperature, breathe when the have a respiratory infection, or sometimes when they are stressed and trying to look scary.

Since you do not have good readings of temp or humidity, it could easily be heat or a respiratory infection. If it is respiratory, he may have string mucous in his mouth or audible popping / coughing sounds as he breathes.

I suggest getting the gauge situation straightened out ASAP. A temp gun is a great tool... Whenever I see mine with an open mouth I take the temp directly off the cham to see if it is heat related.

 

[vistajpdf]

OK, thanks. I was going to order one online but will go to a reptile store in the morning and buy a temp gun.

I see no visible signs of any infection. I did try to rule that out as I know this could be a sign. I have a feeling it's related to the humidity. I removed the substrate about 2 weeks ago and I don't think the bare bottom is holding the humidity well enough. I will increase mistings. I know they can eat when sick, but he's really exhibiting no change in appetite at all.

I hope the reptile shop has the temp gun. Otherwise I'm waiting on the delivery system of the PO.

Thanks,
Dana