HYDROMETRA IN ROCK HYRAX (PROCAVIA CAPENSIS) UNDER MANAGED CARE

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Zoological Medicine
• Reproductive Pathology

Background:

• Rock hyraxes (Procavia capensis) are often housed in social groups in zoos, necessitating population management.
• Reproductive pathologies in captive rock hyraxes are not well-documented, particularly in single-sex groups.

Observation:

• A high prevalence of hydrometra (4/8) was observed in a small group of captive rock hyraxes.
• Affected individuals were nulliparous and housed in a single-sex environment without contraception.
• Clinical signs ranged from sudden death to mild uterine distension, diagnosed via ultrasound.

Findings:

• The observed hydrometra prevalence significantly exceeds previously reported figures for this species in managed care.
• Ovariohysterectomy was performed on two individuals with severe hydrometra.
• One case of mild hydrometra resolved spontaneously during observation.

Implications:

• This study underscores the importance of monitoring reproductive health in single-sex captive animal populations.
• Findings suggest potential risks for hydrometra development in nulliparous female rock hyraxes housed together.
• Further research into the etiology and management of hydrometra in this species is warranted.