Treatments and outcomes of severe hemorrhagic enteritis in three eastern bongos (Tragelpahus eurycerus isaacii) at the Singapore Zoo

Abstract

Three eastern bongos (Tragelaphus eurycerus isaaci) presented acutely with hemorrhagic diarrhea at the Singapore Zoo, thought to be caused by a mouldy batch of hay. Repeated fecal tests were negative of parasites and common gastrointestinal bacteria including salmonella and campylobacter. The diarrhea resolved for all individuals after a week of leaf-only diet. However, 2 individuals developed signs of colic. Both animals were anesthetized for examination including blood tests and imaging studies. The findings were consistent of gastrointestinal ileus and a possible impaction. With intensive treatment involving repeated sedations for fluid therapy administration and treatments for gastrointestinal impaction, one individual eventually made a full recovery, but the other individual died due to septic peritonitis secondary to a rupture in the spiral colon. Persistent supportive therapy may be vital in treating severe gastrointestinal disease in this species.

Keywords: Tragelaphus eurycerus; bongo; gastroenteritis; ileus; impaction.

Fig. 1.

Case 2 (pictured on the right) and Case 3 (pictured on the left) showing mild signs of abdominal discomfort, including rolling to the side and staring at the flanks.

Fig. 2.

Mucoid hemorrhagic plug retrieved from the anus after the animal was seen straining.

Fig. 3.

The spiral colon showing multiple segments discolored grey with red streaks. The mesentery attached also shows signs of congestion.

Fig. 4.

A perforation on the intestinal wall on the antimesenteric border seen in the spiral colon.

Fig. 5.

A phytobezoar found lodged in the transverse colon.