Cloacal Prolapse in Reptiles
In reptiles, there is one external opening called the cloaca (or vent). Three body systems feed into the cloaca: the gastrointestinal tract (coprodeum), urinary tract (urodeum), and reproductive tract (proctodeum). This single opening excretes products from all three systems, including fecal matter and urine.
What Is a Prolapse?
A prolapse occurs when an organ or body tissue is displaced from its normal position — usually downward or outward. In a cloacal prolapse, tissue that is normally internal protrudes out of the cloacal opening. Because three body systems share the cloaca, identifying exactly which tissue and which system is involved is an important first step in determining the underlying cause.
What Can Cause a Cloacal Prolapse?
The cause depends on which body system is affected. Common causes include:
- Gastrointestinal: enteritis or diarrhea, parasitism, obstruction or foreign body, space-occupying masses
- Urinary: bladder stones
- Reproductive: dystocia (“egg binding”), hypocalcemia, sexual arousal and persistent stimulation
Should My Reptile See a Veterinarian?
Absolutely — a cloacal prolapse is often an emergency. Prolapsed tissue can quickly dry out and begin to die, so the sooner it is reduced and replaced, the better the chances of a full recovery. Sutures are typically placed to narrow the cloacal opening and help prevent re-prolapse.
Diagnostic testing including fecal examination, bloodwork, and radiographs will likely be recommended to identify the underlying cause. Treatment will be based on those results, with the goal of addressing the root issue to prevent recurrence.
Prognosis varies widely depending on the viability of the prolapsed tissue, the amount of tissue involved, and the underlying cause.
