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For the past several days, “Berani,” Zoo Miami’s adult male Sumatran tiger, has been lethargic with a loss of appetite that has raised concern in the Animal Science and Animal Health teams at the zoo.
Yesterday, he was immobilized and transported to the zoo’s Animal Hospital so that he could undergo a series of exams to hopefully determine if a serious health issue was the cause of his abnormal behavior. These tests included radiographs, ultrasounds, blood and urine collection, and an endoscopy.
Initial observations indicated that Berani was extremely anemic and dehydrated. Also noted, was an enlarged spleen as well as irregularities of the kidneys which could be a sign of renal failure. Kidney disease is a common issue with older cats, both domestic and wild. At over 15 years old, Berani is considered to be an old tiger (in the wild, their lifespan is usually between 10-15 years).
In addition to receiving significant amounts of IV fluids, he was also given a series of antibiotics, vitamins and pain medications with the intent of treating any possible infections as well as hopefully stimulating his appetite. He is being monitored around the clock to detect any changes in his condition. Pending the results of a variety of tests that were given, a medical plan will be determined to address whatever may be diagnosed.
There are believed to be less than 500 Sumatran tigers left in the wild where they are found in forested areas on the island of Sumatra in Indonesia. Their biggest threats are habitat loss to palm oil plantations and poaching. They are the smallest subspecies of tiger with males reaching up to 300 pounds and females closer to 200 pounds. Zoo Miami is one of the very few zoos in the world that has had success reproducing this critically endangered species.
