RIs

[kevyn]

Can kingsnakes get RI's? I don't see why not, and if so how do you treat one in a Kingsnake? I think my little guy has an RI, on top of being dehydrated. He's drinking and I've increased the heat and the humidity, like I would with a python or boa. Is there anything else? Batryl (sp) injections? Thanks.

[Linds]

Yup. All snakes can get RI's. If you think your snake has one then you should take it to get a culture done. Shotgun treatments with antibiotics can do more harm than good, but antibiotics are often needed if indeed your snake does have an RI. Antibiotics are also very rough on a hydrated snake, and can cause liver stress and dehydration. I would recommend administering a small amount of unflavoured pedialyte to your snake to help with the dehydration. I've never treated a temperature-sensitive snake, so I cannot comment on what temperatures would be best for your king. Either way, I would suggest having a qualified herp vet ake a look at your snake to determine what is going on and how to treat it. Good luck with your little guy.

[kevyn]

Thanks. He's fine now. I don't think it was an RI at all and just dehydration. He's producing uria now and even some fecies. He has some retained shed so that is starting to loosen up and come off so once that happens he should be ready to start eating again. Thanks though for your help it is greatly appreciated and informative.

[marisa]

Another issue you need to look into is *why* he was dehydrated. I don't often hear of snakes becoming dehydrated for no reason unless some other lurking problem is at work, or you just purchased them.

I would also add a humid hide to his enclosure, and possibly soak him every few days to ensure he is fully hydrated at all times until you figure out why he was in the first place.

How long have you had him?

Marisa

[kevyn]

Read the Bloody Miracle thread. He was missing since October 2003.

[gonesnakee]

Sould turn out OK hopefully. I would recomend that for the first few meals go with smaller prey until the snakes system is back up & running at full potential. This will be easier on its digestive system & give it time to build up all the proper digestive enzynes etc. again after such a long break. Mark