Pyloric trichobezoar in a Canadian lynx (Lynx canadensis)

J Zoo Wildl Med. 2013 Dec;44(4):1111-4. doi: 10.1638/2013-0039R1.1.

Abstract

An adult female Canadian lynx (Lynx canadensis) was presented with a 3-wk history of anorexia and lethargy. Initial examination and diagnostics did not provide a diagnosis. The lynx continued to demonstrate vague clinical signs, including anorexia and an abnormal gait. During follow-up immobilizations 2 wk later, a barium gastrointestinal study revealed a pyloric obstruction. Abdominal exploratory surgery was elected, and a gastrotomy and an enterotomy of the proximal duodenum were performed to remove the pyloric obstruction. The obstruction was determined to be a trichobezoar. Fleas, a likely cause of hair ingestion through grooming, were noted during surgical preparation. The lynx made a full recovery from surgery. Reoccurrence of the trichobezoar was prevented after surgery with the use of monthly flea control and three times a week hairball laxative.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bezoars / pathology
  • Bezoars / veterinary*
  • Female
  • Intestinal Obstruction / pathology
  • Intestinal Obstruction / surgery
  • Intestinal Obstruction / veterinary*
  • Lynx*
  • Pylorus / pathology*
  • Stomach Diseases / pathology
  • Stomach Diseases / surgery
  • Stomach Diseases / veterinary*