Serum chemistry comparisons between captive and free-ranging giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis)
Serum chemistry analyses were compared between captive and free-ranging giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis) in an attempt to better understand some of the medical issues seen with captive giraffes. Illnesses, including peracute mortality, energy malnutrition, pancreatic disease, urolithiasis, hoof disease, and severe intestinal parasitism, may be related to zoo nutrition and management issues. Serum samples were collected […]
Obstructive urolithiasis in a reticulated giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata)
A case of obstructive urolithiasis documented in a 12 year old male giraffe.
Comparison of in vitro tests for evaluation of Passive Transfer of Immunoglobulins in giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis)
Serum samples from captive giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) were tested to assess passive transfer of immunoglobulins using in vitro methods developed for domestic ruminants. Estimated immunoglobulin levels were compared using five tests (protein electrophoresis, total protein refractometry, zinc sulfate turbidity, glutaraldehyde coagulation, and sodium sulfite turbidity). A linear relationship was observed among total protein, gamma globulin […]
Dental disease and a left displacement of the abomasum in a Reticulated giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulate): Lessons learned
A brief overview of a giraffe bull that presented with acute colic, developed metabolic acidosis and pre-renal azotemia. He was later humanely euthanized due to lack of response to treatment and upon necropsy was discovered to have dental disease and a left displaced abomasum.
Influence of Diet Transition on Serum Calcium and Phosphorous and Fatty Acids in Zoo Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis)
In response to new recommendations for feeding giraffe in zoos, giraffe (n = 6) were transitioned from a typical hoofstock diet to diets containing reduced starch, protein, Ca and P and added n3 fatty acids. This diet was fed as a 50:50 mix with alfalfa and grass hay. Over the next 4 years, serum Ca, […]
Frothy bloat and serous fat atrophy associated with insufficient fibre intake in a giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis)
Malnutrition is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in captive giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis). Frothy bloat, a nutrition-related disease of domestic ruminants, has not previously been reported in Giraffidae. A 10-year-old female reticulated giraffe (G. c. reticulata) had a chronic cough and died in February 2007 following a two-month period of weight loss. Multiple nutrition-related […]
Dental Disease and Serous Atrophy of Fat Syndrome in Captive Giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis)
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 […]
Failure of Passive Transfer and Leukopenia in five Reticulated giraffe calves (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata)
An abstract on the diagnosis and treatment of five giraffe calves that each had failure of passive transfer.
Insufficient Colostrum Ingestion is a Risk Factor for Polyarthritis and/or Phlegmon in Hand-Reared Reticulated Giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata): 7 Cases (2003–2012)
Seven reticulated giraffes were hand-reared at Nogeyama Zoological Gardens, because the dam had agalactia. Six of the 7 calves exhibited polyarthritis and/or phlegmon in the lower legs. However, the cause of the disorder was unclear. The present study reviewed the clinical records of the 7 giraffes, including the type and amount of colostrum ingested during […]
Addressing the Nuances of Neonatal Giraffe
Veterinary care of neonatal giraffe poses many unique challenges. Preparation typically requires time consuming investigation and discussion. The goal of this presentation is to summarize these issues and offer a reference for potential solutions and planning, based on previous literature and unpublished experience of zoo professionals.