If the hipbones, backbone, and ribs are prominent, the animal is in trouble. Snakes In snakes, a healthy animal should be similar to an even smooth tube, with no ribs showing. Again, if the ribs and backbone are prominent, there is a problem somewhere. All snakes should have clean water, preferably in a dish that allows the whole body to soak. They also need a heat source.
Sunken eyes indicate dehydration as well.
Snakes, especially tropical ones like pythons and boas, are prone to pneumonia if kept too cold. A gurgling or constant light hissing sound when the snake exhales can mean pneumonia. Any discharge from the nose or mouth is bad. Live mice and rats should not be left unattended in a snake cage - the mouse can chew on the snake. A smart store feeds pre-killed rodents only.