mites

Question
QUESTION: i am new to reptiles but i recent had a spider ball python he had a major.in enfestation of mites even eternal (away getting treatment at minute) i want know how will i effectively remove these i am currently using white paper so 8 can see any evidence of these.in viv i wonder if they can spread to my geckos and bearded dragons.

Is there any special thing i can do at min stop spread e.g pull up carpet change drapes

ANSWER: Unfortunately, my advice is somewhat limited, because you are in the UK.  In the US, we use a product called Provent-A-Mite, which is sprayed on the bedding once every two weeks, and knocks the problem out for good in less than a month.

Yes, they can spread to your other reptiles.  Use a flea spray on furniture legs, and do not transfer anything between the cages.  (Flea spray is toxic to reptiles, so keep it away from anything they will come into contact with--but it will prevent mites from climbing down one enclosure, and up into another, if they're not on the same shelf).  Mites can walk long distances, but a chemical barrier will be effective.  You may want to flea-spray the carpet as well--remove the reptiles until it is dry, and don't let them walk on the carpet, if you do.

If Provent-A-Mite is available there, it's the best thing to use.  If it is not, you may want to contact local snake breeders, and ask them which product they recommend.  There is probably something that works well available there.

Most over-the-counter products do not work well, and those designed to be sprayed on the animal can be dangerous.

As for the drapes--wash them.  That will do the trick.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: have you heard zoo med mite off this is  stuff we get here

I keep trying get  get provent -a-mite never any joy and the natural company de flea product rangr i keep trying get  but never any bloody joy not even on ebay

Answer
ZooMed does not take the necessary care to ensure their products are safe and effective, so I would not trust that one.

From what I understand an Ivomec spray is used to deal with mites over there, sometimes.

A Fipronil based flea spray can be used outside the cage around the bases to prevent mites from entering, but be cautious as it's toxic to all invertebrates and chelonia, and can't be used in a humid or tightly enclosed environment for other species.  (Like provent-a-mite, it is toxic to reptiles when wet, and is less safe overall, but can be used sparingly).

These are things I've seen an English vet recommending on a forum.