White Tree Frog Legs Turn Purple: Understanding Cloacal Prolapse and How to Treat It

As a responsible herpetologist, it's essential to be aware of potential health issues that can affect your pet amphibians. One common problem that can occur in frogs is cloacal prolapse, where the cloaca protrudes through the anus and becomes exposed. In this article, we'll explore what causes white tree frog legs to turn purple due to cloacal prolapse and how to treat it.

Causes of Cloacal Prolapse

Cloacal prolapse can be caused by a variety of factors, including dehydration, constipation, straining to expel eggs, and trauma caused by scent marking. In the case of white tree frogs, legs turning purple may indicate that the frog has suffered from cloacal prolapse.

Symptoms and Treatment

If your white tree frog is experiencing cloacal prolapse, you may notice its legs turn purple due to the exposed tissue. To treat this condition, it's essential to take immediate action. First, spray the frog with water 1-2 times a day to keep its terrarium and water bowl clean to avoid infection.

The first meal should be small and soft, such as an earthworm or a cricket with the rear legs removed. It's crucial not to feed your frog for 10 days after treatment to prevent further complications. If the prolapse has not recurred, it's likely that trauma rather than disease was the cause.

Home Remedies

In some cases, home remedies can be effective in treating cloacal prolapse. One method is to use a Vaseline-coated cotton swab to assist with withdrawing the organ. Another approach is to place the afflicted frog in a shallow bath of sugar water, which will draw fluids from the cloaca and allow it to withdraw.

Professional Help

If your white tree frog's legs turn purple due to cloacal prolapse, it's essential to seek professional help as soon as possible. A veterinarian may be able to remove the organ, but often the animal cannot be saved at this point. Therefore, prompt treatment is crucial for a successful outcome.

Cloacal prolapse is a common problem that can occur in frogs, including white tree frogs. By understanding its causes and symptoms, you can take proactive steps to treat it. Remember to keep your frog's terrarium and water bowl clean, avoid feeding it for 10 days after treatment, and seek professional help if necessary.

By following these guidelines, you can help your white tree frog recover from cloacal prolapse and prevent future occurrences.

White tree frog legs turn purple