African Lion Zawadi At Oregon Zoo Gets Special Care In Golden Years – KXL

PORTLAND, OR – One of the oldest male lions in North America is now 18-years-old, according to officials at the Oregon Zoo.  At 18, Zawadi is now considered a senior citizen among African lions, and he gets a lot of special care and attention.

“We have a team of veterinarians, nutritionists, care staff and maintenance workers who collaborate to give Zawadi the best life possible,” said Kelly Gomez, who oversees the zoo’s Africa area. “He’s a pampered cat, as he should be at his age.”

Earlier this year, the Oregon Zoo staff noticed some weakness in Zawadi’s back legs.  They said this is typical for big cats — he weighs over 450 pounds — but it can also put stress on their joints.

Since then, maintenance workers added ramps inside the lion habitat, so Zawadi could still safely climb the rocks there. And the zoo’s veterinary team developed a regimen of physical therapy and cold-laser treatments to help strengthen his muscles and reduce inflammation. The results have been promising.

“Zawadi is doing very well with his therapeutic treatments,” said Dr. Carlos Sanchez, the zoo’s head veterinarian. “His legs are stronger, his mobility is improving, and he seems to be feeling good.”

In the wild, male lions seldom live past the age of 12. While Zawadi is in his late teens, Gomez says he is doing well for an elderly cat.