Caring for Elderly Jaguars

October 29, 2021

Sophia the jaguar is one of Happy Hollow’s well-known and elderly animal residents at nearly 18 years old (the average lifespan of a jaguar is 16). With many of Happy Hollow’s animals exceeding their average lifespans, our zookeepers are always on the lookout for age-related health issues that may need treatment or support. Several days ago, during regular morning checks, zookeepers noticed that Sophia’s eyes appeared cloudy and her behavior was abnormal. Her care team immediately jumped into action, and within a short time a team of three veterinarians, three animal ophthalmologists, Happy Hollow’s vet tech and Sophia’s regular zookeeping staff were ready to undertake a thorough exam. Sophia was anesthetized to allow for a careful and complete physical exam, blood draw, X-rays, ultrasound and glaucoma test.  

The team was able to diagnose Sophia with Uveitis, inflammation of tissue in the eye wall, which had caused a buildup of fibrin inside the eye, affecting her vision. Uveitis can often be a side effect of the immune system being compromised by an infection elsewhere in the body, and future test results will likely be able to let us know if this is the case. The immediate treatment for Uveitis was a steroid shot into the affected tissue surrounding the eye, and Sophia’s care team has already seen improvement in her vison. 

The ultrasound showed changes in Sophia’s kidneys, which is expected in elderly cat species, and changes in the area of her reproductive system and bladder. Additionally, blood test results received so far have shown that Sophia is anemic. A follow up exam under anesthesia will take place with a radiologist to determine if surgery is necessary and to allow the veterinary team to provide further treatment that may not be possible while Sophia is awake. There is always a risk involved when anesthetizing an animal, particularly an elderly animal like Sophia, but the Happy Hollow team takes every precaution to ensure a successful procedure.  

As we move forward cautiously with Sophia’s recovery, particularly until her vision fully recovers, there may be days where she remains behind the scenes where she can be more comfortable in a smaller space. Our elderly male jaguar Kianto has also been spending more time behind the scenes recently as he is being treated for a flare up of arthritis in his elbows as well as an acute injury to one of his wrists that has resulted in a limp. He will also be undergoing an exam under anesthesia to determine the extent of the injury and if it is treatable. We appreciate our guests’ patience and understanding on days when both jaguars may need to remain indoors for their safety and comfort. 

We know that the community is invested in the wellbeing of Sophia and Kianto, and we will share more information as we are able.