What exactly causes RI???

Is it from air/environment or is it a virus from within the snake - I just never really understood this so I thought I would ask.

Thanks.

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Originally Posted by L.West

Is it from air/environment or is it a virus from within the snake - I just never really understood this so I thought I would ask.

Thanks.

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Cold temperatures usually. And if the snake came in contact with another snake with an RI.

Okay - thanks. That helps to understand.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by L.West

Is it from air/environment or is it a virus from within the snake - I just never really understood this so I thought I would ask.

Thanks.

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Its just like us catching a cold.

How many of you keepers have never had to deal with an RI in your pets?? I've been keeping snakes for 2 years now and have never had a problem with an RI - have I just been lucky or is RI not that common??

Thanks.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by L.West

How many of you keepers have never had to deal with an RI in your pets?? I've been keeping snakes for 2 years now and have never had a problem with an RI - have I just been lucky or is RI not that common??

Thanks.

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Well i had to deal with it when my burms heat source went out and by the time i found out she was very sick :(.If your heat temps are consistant you should not have this problem.Or be very carefull not to buy a sick snake like i did once.

Anything that compromises your snake's immune system can lead to it. Basically as far as I understand it, most RIs in snakes are bacterial infections, and as you well know there is bacteria everywhere. Not all of it is bad of course, but if you have a compromised immune system, you're less able to fight off the ones that can infect you.

Additionally housing that is bacteria laden (warm and too wet, or simply unclean) can lead to RIs.

Thanks to you all for your responses - I've understand much more about RI and the prevention of them now.

Very True.

The most common recipe for RIs is wet and cold.

Something to keep in mind during breeding season when temps are lowered, the outdoor temps are cold, and there is the potential of spilled water bowls or soaking.

It's a great idea to reassess your snake room in the fall. Look for "cold spots" and drafts, double check heat sources, and downsize water dishes. Can never be too careful ;)

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Originally Posted by mainbutter

Anything that compromises your snake's immune system can lead to it. Basically as far as I understand it, most RIs in snakes are bacterial infections, and as you well know there is bacteria everywhere. Not all of it is bad of course, but if you have a compromised immune system, you're less able to fight off the ones that can infect you.

Additionally housing that is bacteria laden (warm and too wet, or simply unclean) can lead to RIs.

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