A condition characterized by serous atrophy of fat (SAF) has been reported as leading to peracute mortality in a number of giraffes at several institutions during the last 3 decades. These mortalities were originally attributed to insufficient protein and high fiber diets but were also associated with stress, other nutritional imbalances, and infectious and toxic conditions. A recent report attributes similar giraffe morbidity and mortality to hypoglycemia and chronic energy malnutrition mainly in younger giraffes.
