Big cats still dying at BBP

2 lions and a cub at Bannerghatta have already died so far this year; the toll is likely to increase

The death toll keeps mounting at the Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBP). Last year saw 17 big cats die owing to old age and viral infections. And this year, three big cats have already died because of various reasons. The toll just might increase.


Death of a king: Raja (28) a lion,u00a0 who died at theu00a0 Bannerghatta
Biological Park on April 6 last year. File pic

Fifteen-year-old tiger Guru is suffering from renal failure for the last three weeks. Guru's food intake has become irregular, and he is barely surviving on fluids and other supportive therapy. Earlier, blood samples taken from him showed his creatinine levels as high as 9, but after treatment they have come down to 5.6, still above normal. Because of the random fluctuation in these levels, he is in the critical zone.

B C Chittiappa, assistant director, Veterinary Services (BBP) said, "We have kept him under observation and will be able to say anything for certain only after 3 to 4 days. It might be hereditary, but there are no any sign of infections."

Guru has been put on intravenous fluids to restore the fluid and electrolytes level as he has lost weight by not eating and drinking enough. He is also being given dextrose to restore his energy somewhat, and also to flush out the accumulatedu00a0body wastes.