by BECKY GOFF
Little Apple Post
MANHATTAN - Seventeen-year-old Malayan Tiger, Hakim, has recently received groundbreaking arthritis treatment as part of his quality-of-life health plan at Sunset Zoo.
The treatment, Synovetin OA®, was used to treat the osteoarthritis in both of Hakim's elbows, which has been causing significant pain and mobility issues.
Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine's Dr. Trenton Shrader, Clinical Assistant Professor of Exotic Pet, Wildlife, and Zoological Medicine, who works closely with Caitlin Kenney, Head Keeper at Sunset Zoo, provided the treatment to Hakim, who weighs 250 pounds.
“Hakim has severe arthritis which began to affect his ability to move around and impacted his overall quality of life. We’re hopeful to stop the vicious cycle of inflammation in Hakim’s elbows and give him long-lasting comfort,” says Kenney.
While veterinarians have used Synovetin OA® to treat arthritis in thousands of dogs, this was the first time it has been used in treating a large cat. The Synovetin OA® treatment should provide a year of relief.
"From customized care plans, and modifications in an animal's environment, to the most up-to-date veterinary care, these are just some of the steps we take in animal care as part of being an Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited zoo. To help the overall conservation of animals is a vital part of our mission and we are thankful to have such a caring and dedicated staff and vet team at Kansas State College of Veterinary Medicine to make our animals' lives fulfilling and comfortable," said Sunset Zoo Director, Scott Shoemaker.
Hakim is one of three tigers who call Expedition Asia home at Sunset Zoo. Expedition Asia opened in 2022 and helps provide dedicated habitats for Malayan tigers with features such as heated outdoor pads, green space, wading pools, indoor climate-controlled areas, and a birthing suite for cubs.
"We know our mission is to help provide the best care for the animals we serve at Sunset Zoo. We are very thankful and proud to be caring for animals like Hakim who are in their geriatric stage of life. Knowing that as a team we are working together to provide the best outcomes possible for our Sunset Zoo animals makes a difference in our overall mission of inspiring conservation," said Kenney.