The role of copper and vitamin A deficiencies leading to neurological signs in captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) and lions (Panthera leo) in the United Arab Emirates

摘要: Neurological signs like ataxia and hind limb paresis have often been reported in cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus), lions (Panthera leo) snow leopards unica). As a cause, copper Vitamin A deficiencies discussed. Many cases were seen the United Arab Emirates (UAE) within last years. The aim of this study was to find correlations between nutrition, serum, tissue levels, focusing on A. Blood samples affected unaffected animals analyzed at Central Veterinary Research Laboratory Dubai, UAE. Animals split into three different groups (A, B C) according their diets. Minerals determined tissue, food water samples, serum additionally for E. Liver, kidney spinal cord taken histopathological investigations. Mean liver levels fed pure chicken muscle meat without supplements significantly lower (0.41 ± 0.71 μM/L; 2.16 0.95 ppm wet weight) than whole carcass prey diet (12.16 3.42 16.01 17.51 (p < 0.05). Serum E highest diets (1.85 0.68; 27.31 5.69 μM/L). Liver zinc concentrations only (43.75 16.48 weight). In histopathology, demyelination found all most commonly when based poultry supplements.