Conservative management of metatarsal fracture in a tiger (Panthera tigris)

Abstract

A white Tiger "Rakesh" aged 13 years and weighing approximately 150kg at Nandankanan Zoo developed lameness in its right hind limb. Oral analgesic (Tramadol hydrochloride 500mg) and antibiotic (Ampoxin 500mg) in beef was administered for five days with no improvement. It was decided to examine the limb physically and radiologically. A mixture of 0.65mg atropine sulphate, 150mg xylazine hydrochloride and 500mg ketamine hydrochloride was darted to the tiger using a pressure gun. After 10 minutes the animal was lifted on a tarpaulin strap to a transportation crate and shifted to the zoo hospital. Both the hind limbs were examined thoroughly for presence of wounds. Radiograph of both the limbs in lateral and dorsal-plantar views were taken starting from tarsal joints to digits. Radiographs revealed a simple incomplete fracture of right third metatarsal bone at its proximal third region. Ringers' Lactate 500ml and DNS 5% 500ml was administered intravenously. The heart rate, respiration rate and temperature varied within normal range during anaesthetic period. Antagozil 1.5ml (15mg) was injected i/v to revive the tiger from anaesthesia after shifting it in a squeeze cage. Cephotaxime 2g, Neurobion 2ml, and Tramadol 2ml (200mg) were injected intramuscularly for seven days. The tiger was kept in squeeze cage with limited movement for one month. Five powdered oral calcium tablets (shellcal-50) in beef was given during the period. The tiger recovered from lameness completely and was released to its enclosure. In the present case since the fracture was incomplete and had no external wound, conservative management was thought to be proper. Dingwell (1974) suggested close reduction, if one or two metatarsal bones are fractured in dogs, with remaining bones acting as support. He further suggested coaptation splint or plaster cast for additional support. As external splints are rarely kept intact by wild animals, confinement of tiger inside a squeeze cage restricted its movement which helped in healing of the incomplete fracture.