Exotic Animal Medicine and Surgery—Recent Advances and Perspectives

A special issue of Animals (ISSN 2076-2615). This special issue belongs to the section "Veterinary Clinical Studies".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 March 2026 | Viewed by 1198

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Exotic animal medicine has experienced notable advancements in recent years, enhancing the care and treatment of non-traditional pets and wildlife. While some of these developments have drawn from techniques used in canine and feline care, exotic animal medicine has also evolved in its own unique way. This Special Issue aims to discuss and highlight the latest innovations in exotic animal healthcare, such as those outlined as follows:

Anesthesia and Analgesia: Technological innovations have improved anesthesia and pain management for exotic species. The use of specialized airway devices, endoscopic intubation techniques, positive intermittent pressure ventilators, and advanced blood pressure monitors has enhanced the safety and efficacy of procedures.

Clinical Pathology: Advances in diagnostic techniques have led to more accurate and timely diagnoses. The integration of smartphone applications and new laboratory methods has streamlined the analysis of blood, tissue, and other samples from exotic animals.

Evidence-Based Practices: The adoption of evidence-based approaches has refined treatment protocols. By systematically reviewing clinical data, veterinarians can implement therapies that are scientifically validated, improving patient outcomes.

Self-Medication Observations: Studies have documented instances of self-medication among wildlife, such as orangutans using medicinal plants to treat wounds. These observations offer insights into natural healing behaviors and potential applications in veterinary medicine.

I look forward to receiving your submissions.

Prof. Dr. Ryou Tanaka
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • exotic animal health
  • exotic animal surgery techniques
  • avian medicine
  • reptile surgery
  • small mammal anesthesia
  • exotic pet veterinary care
  • wildlife medicine
  • zoological medicine
  • exotic species pathology
  • exotic animal pharmacology

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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Research

13 pages, 579 KiB  
Article
Molecular Epidemiology of Beak and Feather Disease Virus (BFDV), Avian Polyomavirus (APV-1), Psittacid Herpesvirus 1 (PsHV-1), and Avian Metapneumovirus (aMPV) in Birds Kept as Non-Traditional Companion Animals (NTCAs) in Italy
by Riccardo Baston, Claudia Maria Tucciarone, Alberto Caudullo, Francesca Poletto, Matteo Legnardi, Mattia Cecchinato, Michele Drigo, Giovanni Franzo and Diego Cattarossi
Animals 2025, 15(15), 2164; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15152164 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 466
Abstract
The non-traditional companion animal (NTCA) sector, particularly involving avian species, has significantly expanded in Italy, raising concerns over the spread of infectious diseases. These animals can harbor various pathogens and act as reservoirs, posing risks to native wildlife through legal or illegal trade, [...] Read more.
The non-traditional companion animal (NTCA) sector, particularly involving avian species, has significantly expanded in Italy, raising concerns over the spread of infectious diseases. These animals can harbor various pathogens and act as reservoirs, posing risks to native wildlife through legal or illegal trade, escapes, or intentional releases. However, the epidemiology of avian pathogens in NTCAs remains poorly understood and is typically investigated only in symptomatic individuals. In the present study, cloacal and choanal cleft swabs were collected from 319 ornamental and raptor birds across 19 families, pooled and tested for beak and feather disease virus (BFDV), avian polyomavirus (APV-1), psittacid herpesvirus 1 (PsHV-1), and avian metapneumovirus (aMPV). BFDV and APV-1 were detected in 13.79% and 2.19% of birds, respectively, with five co-infections. No cases of PsHV-1 or aMPV were found. Both viruses showed a higher prevalence than in previous Italian and most of international studies, with several non-psittacine species, including birds of prey, testing positive—some for the first time. Mixed-species settings and participation in public exhibitions were proven as significant infection risk factors. The study highlights the growing relevance of BFDV and APV-1 in non-commercial birds and recommends improved biosecurity and preventive screening to reduce disease spread and safeguard animal health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exotic Animal Medicine and Surgery—Recent Advances and Perspectives)
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