Evaluation of General Health Status of Some Aged Tigresses at a Local Circus, Cairo, Egypt

Abstract

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the general health status of three aged female tigers around 20 years old at a local circus in Egypt for the first time. Tigers (Panthera tigris) are one of the largest Felidae species, which are classified as Endangered species. Blood and fecal samples were collected for hematological and biochemical analysis, parasitological and bacteriological examination. The hematological results revealed macrocytic normochromic anemia and non-significant changes in leucocyte and differential leucocytic count. The biochemical analysis showed a normal level of liver enzymes. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (CREA), chloride (Cl-), and cholesterol were higher than normal. On the other hand, normal Glucose (GLU), Calcium (Ca), Phosphate (PHOS), Sodium (Na+), and Potassium (K+) were observed. In addition, low levels of total carbon dioxide (tCo2) and platelets. The parasitological examination of fecal samples was negative, and tigresses were free from any external or internal parasitic infestation. Advanced studies are required to cover the complete picture of tiger status in captivity.