Katya, the Seneca Park Zoo’s 20-year-old female Amur tiger is being treated for early-stage chronic kidney disease, the zoo announced Sept. 12.
Born in 2005 at Seneca Park Zoo, Katya is the oldest Amur tiger in any zoo accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, zoo officials said in a statement. Median life expectancy of female Amur tigers in captivity is around 14 and for males it’s 16 years, meaning that half survive for fewer years and half survive for more.
Chronic kidney disease is one of the most frequently diagnosed conditions in aging cats of all species, including domestic felines, the statement said.
In some, the progressive loss of kidney function happens quickly, while in others it advances slowly over several years.
“The good news is that Katya’s condition was identified very early thanks to routine screening bloodwork,” zoo veterinarian Dr. Chris McKinney said. “At this stage, she’s not showing any outward signs of illness and continues to be active, alert and cooperative with her care.”
Katya’s noncancerous bladder tumor unrelated
In April, zoo officials announced Katya was being treated with medication to shrink a noncancerous tumor on her bladder wall. However, it is unrelated to her chronic kidney disease diagnosis and not affecting her at this time, a zoo spokesperson said.
Kidneys filter waste from the bloodstream, produce urine and help regulate blood pressure. As part of her treatment plan, Katya is receiving increased monitoring of her blood values and regular subcutaneous fluids to support hydration and help her kidneys flush waste. Zoo staff also are working with Katya to monitor her blood pressure using her tail.
Amur tigers are a critically endangered species with fewer than 500 remaining in their natural range, primarily in the mountain forests of Eastern Russia.
Reporter Marcia Greenwood covers general assignments and has an interest in retail news. Send story tips to mgreenwo@rocheste.gannett.com. Follow her on X @MarciaGreenwood.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Seneca Park Zoo’s Amur tiger has chronic kidney disease
Reporting by Marcia Greenwood, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
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