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Persimmon phytobezoars in meerkats (Suricata suricatta)
Alicia Hahn1, Jennifer D'Agostino, Gretchen Cole
1Oklahoma City Zoo, 2101 Northeast 50th, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73111, USA. ahahn@okczoo.com
Summary
Acute deaths in meerkats were linked to gastric phytobezoars caused by consuming persimmons. Surgical removal of these bezoars led to full recovery in affected animals.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Toxicology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Meerkat (Suricata suricatta) populations can be susceptible to dietary indiscretions.
- Phytobezoars, or bezoars formed from plant material, can cause significant gastrointestinal issues in various species.
Observation:
- Two meerkats died acutely, with necropsy revealing gastric bezoars.
- Radiographs identified bezoars in four of the remaining eight meerkats.
- Surgical gastrotomies were performed, successfully removing bezoars composed of fibrous orange material.
Findings:
- Histological analysis confirmed the bezoar material was identical to persimmon fruit (Diospyros spp.) found in the exhibit.
- The tannins in ripe persimmons are hypothesized to coagulate with gastric acid, forming obstructive phytobezoars.
- Affected meerkats recovered uneventfully after surgical intervention.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential danger of persimmon consumption in captive meerkats, possibly exacerbated by stress from interspecies aggression or dietary changes.
- Persimmon phytobezoars represent a significant veterinary concern, also observed in humans and horses.
- Understanding dietary risks is crucial for preventative care in zoological settings.
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