Andhra Pradesh: Three Big Cats Die At Tirupati Zoo Within A Month
Animal lovers have alleged negligence and inadequate veterinary care following the deaths: Reports
TIRUPATI: The deaths of two leopards and a jaguar at the Sri Venkateswara (SV) Zoological Park in Tirupati within a month have raised concerns among animal lovers over the care and treatment of animals at the facility.
A 16-year-old jaguar named Lava died on July 28, followed by a male leopard, Sathya, aged about 17 years and six months, on August 15. A female leopard, Vimuda, aged about 16 years, died on August 27.
Animal lovers have alleged negligence and inadequate veterinary care following the deaths and raised concerns over the procurement and use of medicines. They have sought a detailed inquiry into the deaths and action against those responsible for any lapses.
The zoo authorities, however, said the deaths were linked to the animals’ age and health conditions and maintained that prescribed procedures had been followed.
Lava had been suffering from cancer since 2017 and was under continuous treatment and medication, the zoo said. A post-mortem examination by doctors from the College of Veterinary Science, Tirupati, concluded that the jaguar died of multi-organ failure.
Sathya was in the geriatric age group and died due to old age and ailments, according to the zoo. The post-mortem examination recorded asphyxia and severe anaemia.
The zoo gave a similar explanation for Vimuda’s death, saying she was about 16 years old and died due to old age and ailments. The post-mortem findings recorded pulmonary oedema and severe gastritis.
The zoo said reports on animal deaths, including post-mortem reports, were being submitted to higher authorities from time to time in accordance with prescribed procedures and guidelines.
It also said a medical camp was conducted for zoo employees on August 20 to screen for zoonotic diseases and conduct general health check-ups.
