Deep Gluteal Abscess in a Zebra (Equus burchelli boehmi)

A male zebra aged about 7 years, weighing approximately 250 kg showed signs of lameness on its hindquarter. It was treated by the zoo veterinarians symptomatically, and it recovered. However, there was recurrence of the symptoms after 1 month. The animal was treated with fluid, electrolyte, antibiotic, and analgesic therapy. The hematology and serum biochemistry profiles were tested and found within the normal range. The animal was tranquilized, and physical and external examinations were conducted. Radiological examination of hoof ruled out any chances of laminitis or any other hoof deformities. Per-rectal examination along with flexion and extension of the hind limbs could not reveal any abnormalities. However, there was no improvement, and finally it died. Postmortem examination revealed an internal deep gluteal abscess. This is a rare report of deep gluteal abscess in a zebra. The difficulties encountered in diagnosing the case and its serious possible complications and possible methods of diagnosing have been described, which may help future equine and wildlife vets in diagnosing such cases successfully and may help in saving the precious lives of the patients suffering from such conditions.