Bci with a possible RI

[dakski]

Sounds like an RI to me.

I have a Carpet Python, Yafe, who got lost in shipment to me by fedex. He was a yearling and got a full blown RI.

A few things I've learned.

1. Husbandry is super important now and for the rest of the snake's life. If treated and cured quickly (relatively - and more on that in a minute), they aren't a lot more susceptible than a snake who hasn't had an RI, but they can be more likely to get another one, especially if there is permanent scarring (depends on a lot of factors).

Keep temps dialed in to slightly warmer (for a boa that means 90-93F hot spot versus 90F where I normally keep mine). Be careful though because too hot is deadly. If you have a good enclosure and a reliable thermostat, I'd aim for closer to 93F. I'd also keep humidity in the 65-75% range.

Long-term keep humidity over 60% and more in shed. Temps can go back to "normal" but make sure the snake has a proper hot spot and a good thermal gradient. 90F hot spot, 82-84F ambient, and 78-80F cool side.

2. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT. If it is indeed an RI, as I think we all think it is, don't skimp on diagnosis or treatment. Proper diagnosis means a tracheal wash. Not all vets will do it, but it's very important to find a vet who will and is familiar with reptiles. A tracheal wash will tell you whether it's bacterial or fungal (most likely bacterial) and more importantly, what type of bacteria so the vet can prescribe the correct antibiotics.

3. Snakes get sick slowly and well slowly. Yafe took 2 months to recover, and longer to fully heal. That was 1 month of antibiotic injections every 3 days and daily nebulizer treatments for a month. The cost was high (dollar wise), but he's happy and healthy now and doing great (4 years later). If you aren't prepared to spend the time and money, find someone who is, and quickly for the snake's sake.

Finally, if you aren't following incredibly strict quarantine procedures, start immediately. Separate room, tools, bowls, etc.

Good luck and keep us posted.