Infectious Cloacitis in Reptiles

Do you know anything about infectious cloacitis in reptiles?

If you have a pet reptile, it is important to be aware of infections that can affect your pet. Some species are more prone to certain illnesses and infections, more than others, but many reptiles experience the same problems. The article will discuss infectious cloacitis in reptiles.

Cloacitis is an infection to a reptile's cloaca. The cloaca is the structure that is where a reptile's reproductive, urinary, and digestive tracts all form one chamber with an opening to the exterior. The cloaca is also sometimes called vent.

Symptoms of cloacitis include swelling around the vent as well as bloody discharge. Cloacitis can turn into a serious health issues for reptiles. The infection can actually spread to other parts of a reptile's body including internal organs.

So what causes the infection? Sometimes diet that lack the right vitamins and minerals can lead to cloacitis as well as anything that disturbs the protective cloacal tissues.

If you notice the symptoms of cloacitis in your reptile, immediately seek treatment. Early detections and treatment prevents the infection from spreading and causing more serious issues. A veterinarian can diagnose cloacitis with a physical exam of the reptile. Veterinarians will also look into if any internal parasites are involved with the infection.

If parasites are involved, there are medications that can kill them. Antiseptics, antibiotics and possibly surgery may be required to treat the cloacal infection. If caught early and treated the reptile should recover.

A veterinarian will also suggest ways to prevent this type of infection from occurring again because if the cause is not addressed, the infection can return. If the infection spreads and damages internal organs, treatments might be too late to work.

Paying attention to your reptile each day and noticing any abnormal behavior or physical abnormalities can save a reptile's life.

The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your veterinarian or other health care professional. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment.