Kwame, a 17-year-old, 396-pound, male lion, recently was immobilized and transported to Zoo Miami’s Animal Hospital to receive a physical exam as part of a carefully managed preventative medicine program.
In the wild, male lions normally live to approximately 12 years old due to loss of strength, speed, and agility as well as competition from other lions. Under human care they can survive into their late teens and early twenties as a result of the extensive care they receive and the protection from competition and disease.
The exam included the collection of blood and urine, radiographs, an abdominal ultrasound, dental cleaning and routine eye and ear exams. He also had a minor manicure by having his claws trimmed and cleaned. In addition, he received vaccinations for rabies, canine distemper, and feline distemper.
Kwame appeared to be in good health at his advanced age and since has returned to his habitat.