Reproductive Disorders in Pet Reptiles Presented to a Specialized Exotic Animal Referral Center in Northern Italy...

Reproductive disorders display an important, often understudied aspect of veterinary clinical practice in reptiles. The present study provides an overview of such conditions analyzing their prevalence, clinical manifestations, and therapeutic management in reptiles (Testudines and Squamata) presented by private owners to a specialized exotic animal clinic in northern Italy. A retrospective analysis of 646 reptile cases reported between 2020 and 2023 revealed that reproductive disorders affecting both male and female reptiles accounted for 11.11% of all clinical cases. The most frequently diagnosed conditions were phallus prolapse (31.91%, 15/47), pre-ovulatory follicular stasis (POFS; 19.15%, 9/47), and post-ovulatory egg stasis (POES; 14.89%, 7/47), all predominantly managed through surgical intervention. The often-non-specific nature of clinical signs makes early diagnosis challenging and may delay treatment. Overall, 85.11% (40/47) of affected reptiles had a positive clinical outcome. These findings provide clinically relevant information on the prevalence, presentation, and management of reproductive disorders in captive reptiles and may support earlier diagnosis and improved therapeutic decision-making in clinical practice.