Journal
JOURNAL OF ZOO AND WILDLIFE MEDICINE
Volume 40, Issue 1, Pages 147-151Publisher
AMER ASSOC ZOO VETERINARIANS
DOI: 10.1638/2008-0008.1
Keywords
Pyometra; felid; ovariohysterectomy; Panthera leo; Panthera tigris; Panthera pardus
Categories
Ask authors/readers for more resources
Eleven cases of pyometra were diagnosed in a captive exotic felid collection over 3 yr in seven African lions (Panthera leo), two tigers (P. tigris), one liger (lion-tiger crossbreed), and one leopard (P. pardus). Clinical signs included anorexia, lethargy, vulvar discharge, and vomiting. Diagnosis was based on clinical signs, complete blood cell counts, plasma biochemistry and electrolyte values, radiographs, and abdominal Ultrasonography. The most common findings oil complete blood count and biochemistry profiles were leukocytosis (>15,000/mu L) and hyperproteinemia (>8.2 g/dL) due to increased globulins. Abdominal radiographic findings were largely nonspecific. but ultrasonography routinely showed a distended, fluid-filled uterus. Each case was treated with ovariohysterectomy and systemic antibiotic therapy. Lions were shown to be at in increased risk for developing pyometra compared with other species. Pyometra should be considered as a differential diagnosis in anorexic or lethargic intact female large felids, and ovariohysterectomy may be warranted in nonbreeding female lions.
Authors
I am an author on this paper
Click your name to claim this paper and add it to your profile.
Reviews
Recommended
No Data Available