J.B., 18, the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore?s lioness, was euthanized on Friday after the zoo?s veterinarians discovered that she had severe liver disease.
Zookeepers first noticed a change in J.B.?s behavior on March 17. Her symptoms included a decreased appetite and lethargy.
After intensive but unsuccessful treatment by the zoo?s veterinary staff, exploratory abdominal surgery was performed. The diagnosis was officially confirmed, and because J.B.?s prognosis was determined to be poor, the zoo?s staff euthanized her.
“Liver disease is not uncommon in older carnivores,” Maryland Zoo veterinarian Dr. Ellen Bronson said. “We?ll learn more details on the extent and cause of J.B.?s particular case after the final pathology report comes out.”
“[Liver disease] is common enough that your dog or cat could be affected by it,” said Rebecca Gullott, mammal collection and conservation manager at the zoo. “It?s a progressive disease, and it can happen pretty quickly.”
Although she was put down, J.B. lived a long life.
“In the wild, [a lion?s life expectancy] is about 15 years,” Gullott said. “In captivity, it?s anywhere from the late teens to the early 20s.”
The zoo?s otherlion, Tsavo, is 14 years old. Gullott said the zoo is exploring options to acquire some female lions to serve as companions for Tsavo.
“[J.B.] will be deeply missed by zoo staff and guests,” Gullott said.
