Exotic Animals’ Vascular System Characteristics and its Application in Clinical Practice

Abstract: Veterinary practice commonly involves caring for domestic and companion animal. Since the trend of owning exotic pets is rapidly increasing, veterinarians often treat exotic patients as well. As a result, veterinarians are facing increased demands for specialized skills and knowledge. This article aims to provide a concise review of the anatomy of the vascular system in exotic animals and its relevance in clinical practice. Snakes, lizards and chelonians have 3-chambered heart with 2 atria and one partially divided ventricle whereas crocodiles have 4-chambered heart. It is important to consider these characteristics during the anesthesia in reptiles since blood shunting affects changes in blood pressure, oxygen level and other anesthetic parameters. In birds, the cardiovascular system is crucial in enduring the exhausting physical activities such as swimming, flying or diving and running. Birds have renal portal system which consists of cranial and caudal renal portal vein. The recommendation of avoiding drug application in the hindlimbs of birds is present for a long time. This is valid not only for birds, but for reptiles, amphibians and most fish. The ventricle of amphibians is trabeculated, which minimizes blood shunting through various anatomical and physiological features. During biphasic systole, the left and right side of the ventricle contract separately, directing blood in different parts of aortic arches. Due to the complexity of the exotic animals, thorough education added in veterinary curricula is needed. Keywords: amphibians, birds, cardiovascular, clinical, reptiles