Rinkhals Snake Vs. Cat

The following story about a rinkhals was submitted by Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital in South Africa.

A teeny, 26-gram (just under 1-ounce) rinkhals (Hemachatus haemachatus) was caught by a cat and needed urgent medical attention. Cat bites can be quite nasty, and cat saliva can often carry a host of bacteria.

We gently cleaned the wounds, and administered pain meds, antibiotics, and subcutaneous fluid to the little snake. This mini “danger noodle” was tube-fed with EmerAid IC Carnivore to aid in his healing.

He spent 10 days in our care. Thankfully the wounds healed beautifully, and he was released into a safe environment.

Don’t be fooled by the small stature of this young snake. All the behaviors expected from an adult snake were exhibited by this one, just in miniature form. Venom in young snakes is potent, too. All the precautions taken in larger snakes of this nature must also be taken in younger versions.

Massive thanks to Grant Fairley for always assisting with our snake patients.

We treat indigenous animals free of charge, relying solely on the donations and support of our community.