Cloacal prolapse in a sun conure [Aratinga solstitialis]

Abstract

Cloacal prolapse is a condition where the inner tissues of the cloaca protrude from the vent exposing the colon, cloaca or uterus. Determining what structure is prolapsed is the first step. On presentation to the Emergency and Critical Care Service, based on the history and physical examination findings, oviductal prolapse was diagnosed in this conure. Initial treatments consisted of stabilization with fluids and warmth, lubrication of prolapsed tissue and administration of antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and analgesics. Tissue reduction was attempted while the conure was still awake but was unsuccessful. The conure was hospitalized overnight in an incubator and was transferred to the Exotics Service the following morning. On physical examination, a large hard structure was palpated in the conure’s coelomic cavity. Radiography confirmed the conure had egg retention as well. Manual expression, ovocentesis and tissue reduction was performed under general anesthesia. Once the egg is removed and oviductal tissue is replaced it is important to prevent recurrence through a combination of husbandry changes, behavioral modification, hormonal management or salpingohysterectomy.