Abstract

The present study describes the haematology, urinalysis, and pathomorphological findings in Indian leopards (Panthera pardus) affected with glomerulonephritis at Manda Zoo of Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir) of India. Two leopards (male and female) were lethargic, had increased thirst, and blood in urine with lack of interest in their surroundings. Haematuria was the consistent feature in both the cases. The complete blood count of the surviving female leopard showed leukocytosis. Serum biochemistry revealed azotemia, hyperkalemia, hypoalbuminemia, and a mild increase in serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) concentration. Urinalysis showed increased numbers of red and white blood cells, moderate albuminuria, and mild glucosuria. These signs supported the diagnosis of nephritis. Both leopards were treated with intensive intravenous fluid therapy and antibiotics for 3 days. The therapeutic objective was to normalize fluid balance, solve hemodynamic problems, and promote urine production. The female leopard clinically improved within 2 days of treatment and fully recovered. The male leopard died during the treatment and a complete necropsy with histopathology was performed. Grossly, the kidneys showed a rough, uneven cortex with a firmly adhered capsule. On histopathological examination, the kidneys showed severe degeneration and swelling of epithelial cells within the proximal convoluted tubules which completely occluded the lumen with hypercellularity of glomerular tufts causing loss of urinary space.

Acknowledgments

The authors thanks to Chief Wildlife Warden (J&K) and associated staff of Manda Zoo at Jammu for providing necessary facilities for the treatment of the leopards.