Cloacal prolapse reversal in a canindian arara

Abstract

Cloacal prolapse is a disorder generally observed in psittacines and is characterized by the inversion or displacement of the anatomical position of the cloaca, an important organ that is common to the reproductive, digestive, and urinary systems of birds. The aim of this paper is to report a case of cloacal prolapse in a Canindé Macaw (Ara ararauna), which was reversed through a surgical procedure. On first contact, the animal's behavior was altered and it appeared lethargic and isolated from the other animals, as it shared an enclosure with other macaws. Later, during physical examinations, the animal showed a low body score, ruffled feathers, and a change in its feces. In addition, externalization of the anal mucosa was observed, leading to the final diagnosis of cloacal prolapse. If the cloaca is exteriorized for a prolonged period, the bird can become azotemic and in critical condition, as the inability to urinate or defecate leads to serious complications. Smaller prolapses can respond to simple reattachment techniques, such as suturing procedures, which was the approach adopted in this report.