Diet-Induced Bloat in Confiscated Capped Langurs (Trachypithecus pileatus): Clinical Management and Conservation Implications.

backgroundCapped langurs (Trachypithecus pileatus) are a globally threatened Asian colobine primate and represent the most frequently trafficked primate species in Bangladesh. This species possesses a highly specialized foregut fermentation system adapted for a predominantly folivorous diet. Consequently, inappropriate feeding practices in captivity, particularly among confiscated individuals, often lead to severe and potentially life-threatening gastrointestinal complications.

methodsWe report the clinical presentation, treatment protocol and outcomes of diet-induced bloat in two juvenile capped langurs (aged 1.5-2 years) confiscated from illegal wildlife trade in Bangladesh. Following 4 months of fruit-predominant feeding at a temporary housing facility, both animals developed acute bloat upon transfer to a specialized wildlife rehabilitation centre.

resultsClinical signs were severe abdominal distension, lethargy and anorexia. Treatment included oral simethicone (4 mg/kg BID), intramuscular marbofloxacin (2 mg/kg SID for 5 days) and supportive adjunctive treatment in the form of therapeutic abdominal massage. Both langurs had complete clinical recovery within 120 h, with symptomatically discernible improvement within 48 h.

conclusionsThis case demonstrates effective multimodal management of bloat in confiscated colobine primates and emphasizes the overriding significance of species-specific nutrition in wildlife rehabilitation. The described treatment regimen offers evidence-based guidelines for similar clinical scenarios in captive primate medicine.