BOSTON – Boston veterinarians are caring for a gorilla with “serious health issues” at the Franklin Park Zoo.
The zoo said Kitombe, a 38-year-old man western lowland gorilla nicknamed “Kit”, will be examined under anesthesia, which can be risky for animals his age. Veterinarians made the decision after “his condition rapidly deteriorated on Wednesday,” the zoo said.
Gorilla’s condition worsens at Franklin Park Zoo
Kit has a long list of health problems, including chronic cough, weight loss and muscle mass, lethargy, tremors, glaucoma and heart disease.
“Although Kit had initially responded positively to antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications, the deterioration of his condition requires extensive investigation to better identify the cause of his current ailments and what, if any, treatment options are available,” says Dr. Christopher Bonar. Zoo New England director of animal health, said in a statement. “While the risks associated with anesthesia are extremely high for Kit, given his age and current health status, the investigation is critical.”
The average life expectancy for male gorillas is about 32 years old, so Kit is considered a geriatric gorilla. According to the zoo, heart disease is the biggest health problem for male gorillas.
Kit the Gorilla has been in Boston since 1998
The gorilla has lived in the zoo since 1998. He is one of six gorillas there and, together with his buddy Kiki, has produced five offspring.
In 2022, the zoo opened its $9.1 million “Gorilla Forest” habitat, with a waterfall and climbing plants.
