Reptiles with Cloacal Infections

Let's discuss about reptiles with cloacal infections.A reptile's body is obviously different from a human's body. A reptile's digestive, urinary and reproductive tracts all end in the same spot. This spot is an internal chamber that has a cavity or vent that leads to the exterior. In reptiles this structure in their body is known as the cloaca. Reptiles with cloacal infections experience different symptoms. This article discusses these and ways to treat cloacal infections.

Unfortunately, like many other parts of their body, the cloaca can become infected. This infection is known as cloacitis. Cloacitis is characterized by swelling around the reptile's vent and bloody cloaca discharge.

If cloacitis is not caught early enough and properly treated, it will become more severe. The infection will spread to other internal organs. A reptile can even end up with the infection underneath it's skin. With multiple internal organs being attacked by an infection, a reptile's health will deteriorate. This condition can even become fatal.

Cloacitis is caused by an infection, but more specifically the infection can start with lack of vitamins in the reptile's diet or something that disrupted the cloacal tissues. Internal parasites, stones, and cloacitis can all be the result of vitamin imbalances. Reptile owners always need to make sure their reptile is receiving the proper diet with the right amount of vital vitamins and minerals. There are vitamin supplements for reptiles if needed. Changing a reptile's diet or offering more variety can also help prevent this issue.

If stones are in the cloaca a veterinarian will have to surgically remove them. Removal of damaged cloacal tissue may also be required in order for a reptile to properly recover from an infection. Antiseptics to clean the cloaca and antibiotics to treat the infection can also be prescribed by a veterinarian. Infectious cloacitis can be treated and reptiles can go on living a healthy life. If a diet problem caused the infection, it can return unless the reptile's diet is fixed.

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.