African white lion at Night Safari euthanised on medical grounds

A rare 15-year-old African white lion at the Night Safari was euthanised on Feb 21, The Straits Times has learnt.

- Ang Qing

In response to queries, Mandai Wildlife Group veterinarian Guillaume Douay said the lioness named Mandisa had shown signs of weight and muscle loss, as well as a reduced appetite, since early February.

A health check-up on Feb 21 revealed masses in her abdomen and the build-up of fluid, which were later confirmed to be blood from tumours.

"Unfortunately, there is no cure for this condition. Our veterinary and animal care teams then made the difficult decision to euthanise her on medical and welfare grounds," said Dr Douay, who co-chairs Mandai's Animal Welfare Scientific Advisory Group.

An examination of Mandisa's carcass confirmed the presence of cancer, which had spread to multiple organs, he added.

Cancer is more common in aged animals like Mandisa. The lioness had been on the group's senior animal care plan that aims to help animals age comfortably while maintaining a good quality of life.

Said Dr Douay: "Our teams continually assess the welfare of each animal, and when age-related issues become too severe to manage through treatment or care, euthanasia is considered the most compassionate option."