Lions, tigers, and bears, oh my! For some animals, a local zoo is not always a restful resort. Yes, watching the funny humans with their strange devices is diverting, but zoo animals have to deal with illnesses that their wild counterparts do not, specifically allergies.
Carnivores are the most susceptible animals to zoo-induced allergies. But omnivores and piscivores, such as goats, beavers, and even polar bears, react to allergens in captivity (there are not many allergens in the Arctic Circle).
There are many theories about why zoo animals get allergies, but their wild counterparts do not. Wildlife veterinarians differ in their beliefs, listing diet, altered environments, exposure to allergens, stress, and even genetic factors as the main causes.
Some of the largest zoos in the United States are trying to answer the question of why zoo animals get allergies and wild animals don't.
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Understanding Allergies Of Zoo Animals
Mold, food, and even commercial pet food create a unique environment that taxes the immune systems of zoo animals
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Animal allergies mirror many allergic reactions observed in humans and their domestic pets. Allergies occur when an immune system becomes hypersensitive to things and substances in the environment.
How do allergies work? A wild immunologist from the University of Tasmania, Andy Flies, explains that when exposed to an allergen, an animal's immune system triggers symptoms ranging from dry skin, itchy eyes, and sneezing to severe respiratory issues or skin conditions.
Common Allergens:
Dust mites Mold Cleaning chemicals Human dander Processed food Insect bites Medications and supplements
Understanding animal health issues involves comprehending the complex interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Some mammals might be genetically inclined to certain allergens. While others develop sensitivity after extensive exposure over time.
Allergy tests are necessary to pinpoint the allergy that is affecting the animal's behavior and health. An allergy test for animals is similar to a human allergen test. However, for zoo animals, the procedure usually takes 45 minutes and requires putting the mammal under anesthesia.
Once asleep, veterinarians shave a patch of fur, giving access to the animal's skin. This area is then pricked with a tiny amount of purified allergen extract into the skin. If there is a reaction, a small bump or red patch will appear.
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Environmental Differences: Zoos Vs. The Wild
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The environment in which an animal lives also plays a crucial role in the development and manifestation of allergic reactions. Zoo animals are in relatively controlled environments where they might be exposed to unfamiliar substances or stressors such as the fireworks that were blamed for the sudden death of an endangered baby red panda.
Animal lodges recognize that cages are not the solution and are beginning to design areas to mimic natural habitats. However, while similar, these areas fail to fully replicate the complexity and variability found in the wild. These controlled settings lack a diverse array of plants and microorganisms.
Typical Allergy Symptoms in Captive Animals
Sneezing Wheezing Itching Loss of appetite Irritability Dry, patchy skin Lethargy
Zoos utilize processed foods and supplemental nutrition. Current zoo employees clean cages or habitats with chemicals not present in the wild. Moreover, the close quarters and limited space of even major zoos are stressful. Stress is known to degrade immune systems, making animals (and humans) more susceptible to allergies.
Typical Allergies for Zoo Inhabitants By Different Species
Animal Species
Common Allergies
Primate
Fruits, vegetables, and nuts
Bears
Pollen, sesame, dairy
Big Cats
Protein, dairy, wheat, corn, egg, barley
Wild animals, whether hiding in the long savannah grass or on the river banks, are constantly interacting with a much broader spectrum of environmental stimuli. This dynamic ecosystem, honed by natural selection over time, provides continuous exposure to stimuli that trigger immune responses and minimize allergic tendencies.
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Diet And Lifestyle Impact On Zoo Animal Allergies
Maybe lunch is not bologna sandwiches and juice boxes, but zoo animals are exposed to artificial foods that affect their immune systems
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The life of a zoo animal deviates substantially from the wild, where seasonally available food sources including fresh meat or leafy greens (with a little dirt thrown in) align with their evolutionary dietary needs. A carnivorous diet is free from processed foods, and the variety ensures nutritional balance, supporting a robust immune system.
Zoo residents, however, receive a static and controlled diet. Commercial kibble can contain fillers and preservatives that are known to trigger allergic responses or inflammation. Moreover, reduced physical activity and minimal contact with others of its species affect an animal's physiological and psychological resilience.
Nutmeg, a 16-year-old female beaver at the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, is known to be allergic to trees, grasses, dogs, cats, and even humans! Luckily, her allergies did not include her favorite treats.
Additional types of standardized feed in zoos in the United States include:
Cat food (wet and dry) Leafy Greens Fruits and nuts Horse meat Hay
Human Influence On Captive Animal Allergies
People play a significant role in the development of allergies among zoo animals. Captive animals come into contact, either during human care or from zoo admission, with substances, including perfumes, deodorants, and cigarette smoke, which can act as irritants. Furthermore, concentrated populations of animals within limited spaces facilitate the unnatural spread of dust, dander, mites, molds, and pollen.
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Strategies For Managing Allergies In Zoo Animals
Managing allergies in zoo animals requires a complex and multifaceted approach unique to each species
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Animal welfare is paramount. One effective strategy tailors environmental controls which reduces exposure to potential allergens. Optimizing ventilation systems to reduce airborne particles, building open-air enclosures such as the Omaha Zoo (considered the best in the US), and devising cleaning schedules for enclosures to prevent the accumulation of mold.
Animal bedding materials are also a source of allergic reactions. Substituting traditional materials with hypoallergenic alternatives can significantly reduce allergy risks.
Zoo diets can either cause or treat allergies. Veterinarians and zookeepers work closely to identify potential food and nutritional supplements, employing elimination diets to pinpoint specific allergens. Providing a balanced and species-appropriate diet that mirrors foods found in the wild can minimize allergic triggers.
Open-air zoos such as the San Diego Zoo or Fossil Rim Wildlife Center imitate the wilderness, allowing for a natural environment. Another example of a wilderness zoo is a remote Australian sub-Antarctic Island. These animal kingdom lodges minimize population density, reducing stress, a factor inherently heightened in captive settings due to limited space.
Stress is known to weaken immune responses in all wild and domestic animals. One such off-beat example of stress affecting animal health was the case of a lonely sunfish at Japan's Kaikyokan Aquarim.
Medication is also an important component in maintaining zoo animal health. Antihistamines or steroids are administered under veterinary supervision when all other non-invasive management fails. Recently, however, Lincoln Park Zoo has tried a more unique method.
Caregivers treated an allergic polar bear with local organic honey containing pollens to build resistance. Because wild polar bears are unique to the Arctic environment, like the polar bear cubs at Canada's Wapusk National Park, they are not exposed to many allergens.
Zoo animals are far more likely to develop allergies, while their free-range cousins will not. Quick intervention ensures minimal suffering through hay fever or cedar season. Regular health assessments by veterinarians and zoo employees allow for early detection of allergy symptoms, facilitating prompt intervention.