Successful manual management of egg retention associated with cloacal prolapse in a parrot

Abstract

Egg retention is a commonly encountered reproductive problem in birds and may lead to complications such as cloacal prolapse if not treated promptly. A two-year-old parrot weighing 85 g was presented with a two-day history of swelling in the posterior region of the body, reduced activity, anorexia, and absence of defecation. Clinical examination revealed cloacal prolapse associated with a retained egg, along with tenesmus, laboured respiration, and persistent tail wagging. The bird was carefully restrained, and the retained egg was manually removed through controlled fragmentation after cleaning and local desensitisation of the cloacal region. The prolapsed tissue was then flushed, lubricated, and gently repositioned into its normal anatomical position. Postoperative treatment with oxytetracycline and meloxicam was provided. The bird recovered completely without any post-treatment complications. This case shows that careful manual removal of a retained egg followed by reduction of the prolapse can be a simple and minimally invasive treatment option in suitable cases.