Spot the signs without delay
Cloacal prolapse occurs when a piece of tissue protrudes through the cloaca, the opening beneath the tail. In a layer, you may see a red or pink mass, sometimes swollen, that remains visible after laying. Blood, soiling around the rear, repeated straining or a hen that appears lethargic are also signs to take seriously.
This is an emergency: the exposed tissue can be injured, and the other hens may peck at it. The condition can worsen quickly. Do not try to push the tissue back in or apply any product. Contact the local veterinarian without delay and follow their instructions.
Immediate steps to protect the hen and the flock
Identify the bird and calmly separate it from the group, in a clean, quiet space that is easy to monitor. This separation limits pecking and allows you to observe its condition without handling it unnecessarily. Avoid sudden movements and do not leave the hen with the others while waiting for the problem to pass.
Check whether any other layers have a visible mass, blood or unusual straining. Note when the signs were first observed, the number of birds affected and any recent changes in the poultry house or flock management. This information will help the veterinarian assess the situation. If several hens are affected, quickly ask for their advice on the flock as a whole.
Reduce risk factors in the poultry house
Regular monitoring helps you spot changes in behaviour and lesions around the cloaca early. Keep nest boxes clean and accessible, with enough space to limit jostling. Also observe the body condition of the layers and ensure they receive feed suited to their stage of production, as well as permanent access to clean water.
Avoid sudden changes in management and regularly check the lighting, ventilation and stocking density in the poultry house. Difficult laying, excessive body size or unsuitable rearing conditions can contribute to this problem, but only a professional can assess the situation in your flock.
In Côte d'Ivoire, as soon as tissue protrudes from the cloaca, isolate the hen, prevent pecking and call the local veterinarian. Act early, then strengthen monitoring and good management practices to protect the other layers.
--- *Source: NEXTEKCI — In-house expertise — summary and analysis by NEXTEKCI.*