黑美洲豹(美洲虎)的人工育幼

2017年1月20日8:00,新余动物园10周岁、初产黑美洲豹在南昌动物园分娩1只体重为730 g的豹崽(母),由于母豹缺乏母性,将豹崽取出并进行人工饲养。南昌动物园采用美国PetA G0—6月初生猫奶粉哺育幼豹,经过饲养团队131 d的精心饲养,黑美洲豹从730 g增重至8 780 g,于131日龄从育幼室转移至笼舍饲养。根据实际饲养经验,阐述人工育幼黑美洲豹的经历,并总结数据供相关人员参考。     

Retinal Epithelial Fine Structure in the Domestic Cat (Felis catus)

The morphology of the retinal epithelium (RPE) and closely associated choriocapillaris and Bruch's membrane (complexus basalis) has been investigated in the eye of the domestic cat (felis catus) by light and electron microscopy. The RPE consists of a single layer of cuboidal cells joined laterally by apically-located junctional complexes. Basally (sclerally) these cells display numerous infoldings while apically (vitreally) two distinct types of processes enclose photoreceptor outer segments. Internally the large vesicular nucleus is centrally located. Smooth endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, polysomes and lysosome-like bodies are abundant. Rough endoplasmic reticulum while present is not plentiful. Over the tapetum lucidum, melanosomes are absent from the RPE cells while in non-tapetal locations melanosomes are large and plentiful. The endothelium of the choriocapillaris is highly fenestrated and these capillaries are deeply indented into the epithelial layer over the tapetum. Bruch's membrane (complexus basalis) is non-tapetal regions is the typical pentalaminate structure noted for most mammals. Over the tapetum however it is reduced to a trilaminate structure and when associated with the indented capillary profiles is further reduced to a single thickened basal lamina.     

Fine Structure of the Retinal Photoreceptors of the Domestic Cat (Felis catus)

The morphology of the retinal photoreceptors of the domestic cat (Felis catus) has been investigated by light and electron microscopy. In this species the photoreceptors can be readily differentiated and adequately described by the classical terminology of rods and cones, with rods being the more numerous. Rods are long slender cells with inner and outer segments of much the same diameter. Cones are shorter cells with a conical outer segment that tapers distally and an inner segment which is wider than the outer segment. Both rods and cones are highly polarized and compartmentalized cells and consist of an outer segment, a connecting cilium, an inner segment, a nuclear region and a synaptic process leading to an expanded synaptic ending. Morphological similarities and differences are noted between the rods and cones for the various regions of these cells.     

Comparative Anatomy of Intervertebral Didcs and Relate4d Structures in the cat (Felis catus) and Jaguar (Panthera once)

The anatomy of cervical, thoracic and lumber intercertebral discs was studied with the aid of gross dissection and radiographic techniques to delineate realated ligamentous structures, costrovetebral joint capsules and intercapital synovial sheaths. The study involved 1 aged jaguar and 15 adult, mixed breed domestic cats.     

Vascularization and Production of Mitogenic Factor(S) in Domestic Cat (Felis catus) Testes: Preliminary Results

Some male seasonal breeders are known to undergo testicular growth and regression throughout the year. The periodic and fast physiological development and regression processes, with simultaneous fast changes in blood flow, appears to be stimulated by angiogenic substances and inhibited by anti-angiogenic factors. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of season on microvascularization and production of angiogenic factors by testicular tissue, using the male cat as a model. Monthly, testes were collected post mortem from domestic stray cats, for histology and for tissue culture. Testis explants were cultured for 18h and conditioned media were tested for their ability to stimulate mitogenesis of bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAEC). Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was used as a positive control. Proliferative response of BAEC to samples was evaluated by determining the number of cells in each well using a Neubauer chamber. Vascular density was assessed by a computerized image analysis ('Scion Image, NIH, USA') based on the total histological area occupied by the vascular lumen. Percentage data subjected to arcsine transformation were analysed by one-way ANOVA and post-comparison tests. There was a significant increase in microvascular areas in November ( P  < 0.001), when compared to the remaining months (LSD test). All cat testicular tissue showed the capability to increase BAEC proliferation, when compared to negative controls, throughout the study. However, there was an increase in BAEC mitogenesis in February ( P  < 0.05) and November ( P  < 0.001), when compared to the other months. Our data show that cat testicular tissue from different periods of the year stimulates angiogenic factor(s). Furthermore, changes in angiogenesis may play a role on vascular growth and regression of the testes during the breeding and non-breeding season in the male cat.     

Serum Starvation and Full Confluency for Cell Cycle Synchronization of Domestic Cat (Felis catus) Foetal Fibroblasts

Nuclear transfer of domestic cat can be used as a tool to develop reproductive biotechnologies in wild felids. The importance of cell cycle phase during the nuclear transfer has been a matter of debate since the first mammalian clone was produced. The cell cycle phase of donor cells interferes on maintenance of correct ploidy and genetic reprogramming of the reconstructed embryo. The use of G0/G1 arrested donor cells has been shown to improve nuclear transfer efficiency. The present study was conducted to test the hypothesis that domestic cat foetal fibroblasts cultured up to the fifth passage and submitted to full confluency provide a higher percentage of cells at G0/G1 stage than fibroblasts cultured in serum starved media. Results demonstrated that serum starvation increased (p ≤ 0.05) the percentage of G0/G1 fibroblasts when compared with control. Moreover, the combined protocol using confluency and serum starvation was more efficient (p ≤ 0.05) synchronizing cells at G0/G1 stage than serum starvation or confluency alone for the first 3 days of treatment. In conclusion, serum starvation and full confluency act in a synergistic manner to improve domestic cat foetal fibroblast cell cycle synchronization at the G0/G1 stage.     

Impact of 24-h Cooling Prior to Freezing on the Survival of Domestic Cat (Felis catus) Epididymal Sperm

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of a 24-h cooling period prior to freezing on domestic cat epididymal sperm viability. Fifteen tomcats were submitted to routine orchiectomy and sperm samples were retrieved from both epididymides in a Tris–glucose–20% egg yolk extender. For each tomcat, the diluted sperm was split into two equal volumes and cooled to 5°C at a rate of 0.5°C/min; one sample for 60 min (control) and the other for 24 h (cooled). After the cooling period, samples from both groups were frozen using an identical freezing protocol. Sperm samples were evaluated in three different periods: immediately after harvesting, after cooling at 5°C for 24 h (cooled group) and after freezing–thawing of control and cooled groups. Evaluations consisted of sperm motility and progressive status, sperm morphology and plasma membrane integrity (PMI) using two fluorescent probes. After cooling for 24 h, a decrease (p < 0.05) in sperm motility, progressive status and PMI was observed when compared to sperm samples immediately after collection. Comparing the results obtained after thawing, no difference (p < 0.05) was found regarding sperm motility, progressive status, PMI and sperm morphology between control and cooled groups. The results from the present study show that cooling cat epididymal spermatozoa at 5°C for 24 h prior to freezing does not lead to major damage of spermatozoa impairing the freeze–thaw process.     

Expression of Survivin,Bcl‐2 and Bax Proteins in the Domestic Cat (Felis catus) Endometrium During the Oestrus Cycle

Apoptosis has been shown to be an important regulator of endometrium function. To clarify the regulation of apoptosis in the cat endometrium during the normal oestrus cycle, the expressions of the apoptosis‐related proteins (Bcl‐2 and Bax) and their correlation to the inhibitor of apoptosis protein Survivin were analysed using immunohistochemistry. The TUNEL technique (TdT‐mediated dUTP nick end labelling) was also used to detect DNA fragmentation characteristic of apoptotic cells. The results demonstrated that TUNEL labelling is not effective for the detection of apoptosis in cat endometrium. Survivin was expressed in the luminal and glandular epithelial cells of cat endometrium during all phases of the oestrus cycle. Survivin was localized in both the cytoplasm and nuclei of superficial and deep uterine gland cells during the luteal phase, while only cytoplasmic staining was observed during the follicular and anoestrus phases. Bax immunoreactivity in the cytoplasm of luminal and glandular epithelial cells as well as the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels was weak in the anoestrus phase. Compared with anoestrus, the intensity of Bax immunostaining was moderate in the follicular phase and increased dramatically in the luteal phase. Bcl‐2 immunostaining in the cytoplasm of luminal and glandular epithelial cells was moderate in the anoestrus phase. During the early follicular phase, cytoplasmic Bcl‐2 immunostaining was detected mostly in glandular epithelial cells. In the mid‐follicular phase, in glands, the amount of Bcl‐2 protein increased progressively from the superficial to the deep layer. In contrast, the expression of Bcl‐2 decreased in the secretory phase, being very low or absent in the mid‐ and late luteal phases. The overall results suggest that Survivin, Bax and Bcl‐2 proteins may cooperatively contribute to cell apoptosis and cell proliferation in the cat uterus during the oestrus cycle.     

Successful Cryopreservation of Domestic Cat (Felis catus) Epididymal Sperm after Slow Equilibration to 15 or 10°C

To support conservation strategies in wild species, simple but highly reproducible procedures of sperm cryopreservation are required for an application under field conditions. We used epididymal sperm of the domestic cat to optimize a sperm freezing procedure for felid species, particularly questioning the demand for sperm cooling to 4°C. We equilibrated sperm during slow cooling to only 15 or 10°C in a Tes–Tris–fructose extender with final concentrations of 4.7% (v/v) glycerol and 10% (v/v) of the water‐soluble fraction of hen's egg yolk (low‐density lipoproteins). Subsequently, sperm were frozen over liquid nitrogen. Total and progressive motility (mean ± SD) after thawing was 60.7 ± 8.6% and 53.9 ± 9.6% in samples cooled to 15°C or 61.6 ± 9.5% and 55.3 ± 9.9% in samples cooled to 10°C. Therefore, a one‐step addition of glycerol to sperm at room temperature together with the freezing extender, the use of cryovials (loaded with diluted sperm aliquots of 300 μl), an equilibration period of 40 min comprising slow cooling to 15°C at a rate of approximately ?0.14 K/min before rapid freezing over liquid nitrogen, yielded satisfying results. Cooling, freezing and thawing rates were exactly characterized as a prerequisite for further optimization and to provide a repeatable protocol to other practitioners.     

Anatomical description of the origin and distribution of the lumbosacral plexus in one puma (Puma concolor)

Wild felids often suffer spinal and limb disorders; however, their nervous system anatomy is poorly studied. Herein, the lumbosacral plexus (Plexus lumbosacralis) of an adult puma and the motor and sensitive innervation of the pelvic limb is described. We found anatomical similarities to other felids, but also some differences. Branches L4-S3 form the lumbosacral plexus (Plexus lumbosacralis) in the puma. The femoral nerve (N. femoris) arises from the union of L4-L5, while in other felids, it is formed by L5-L6. Unlike in the cat, the sartorius muscle receives branches from the saphenous (N. saphenous) and femoral nerves (N. femoris), and the lateral head of the gastrocnemius and superficial digital flexor muscles are innervated by a branch of the soleus muscle.     

Breeding performance and growth of SPF cats (Felis catus)

Data on the breeding performance and growth rate of the kittens in a Specific Pathogen Free cat colony are given. Mean litter size was 2·8 kittens in the first litter, and 4·3 and 4·0 in the second and third litters, respectively. Kitten losses were 3·3% still births, and 5·6% losses prior to weaning at 8 weeks of age. Mean birth weight of first litter kittens was 109 g, with no detectable difference between males and females. Mean 42-day weight was 625 g for males, and 534 g for females. No relationship was found between litter size and either birth weight or 42-day weight. It was concluded that there are substantial benefits in breeding cats under SPF conditions, largely because of the low pre-weaning mortality. Resumé. On indique les données concernant les résultats de l'élevage et de la croissance des chats mis dans des conditions axéniques (colonies dépourvues de germes spécifiques). Le nombre moyen des petits était de 2,8% pour la première mise-bas, et de 4,3% et 4% respectivement pour la deuxième et la troisime. Les pertes étaient de 3,3% par mortalité et de 5,6% avant le sevrage (8 semaines). Le poids moyen des chatons de la première portée était de 109 gr, sans différence nette entre les deux sexes. Le poids moyen au 42ème jour était de 625 gr pour les mâles et de 534 gr pour les femelles. Aucun rapport n'a été constaté entre le nombre des chatons de la portée et le poids au 42ème jour. On conclut que l'élevage en milieu axénique des chats apporte un bénéfice substantiel, surtout grâce af la faible mortalité d'avant le sevrage. Zusammenfassung. Es werden Daten über die Fortpflanzung von Katzen und die Wach-stumsraten der Jungkatzen in einer von spezifischen Pathogenen freien Katzenkolonie angegeben. Die mittlere Wurfgrösse betrug beim ersten Wurf 2,8 Jungtiere und 4,3 und 4,0 beim zweiten bzw. dritten Wurf. Die Verluste an Jungtieren betrugen 3,3% Totgeburten und 5,6% Verluste vor dem Absetzen im Lebensalter 8 Wochen. Das mittlere Gewicht von Jungtieren des ersten Wurfs betrug bei der Geburt 109 g, wobei keine Unterschiede zwischen männlichen und wei-blichen Nachkommen beobachtet wurden. Das mittlere Gewicht im Alter von 42 Tagen betrug 625 g bei männlichen Tieren und 534 g bei weiblichen Tieren. Es wurden keine Beziehungen zwischrn der Wurfgrösse einerseits und dem Gewicht bei der Geburt und dem nach 42 Tagen andererseits festgestellt. Es wurde der Schluss gezogrn, dass die Zucht von Katzen unter von spezifischen Pathogenen freien Bedingungen wesentliche Vorteile bietet, vor allem, weil die Sterblichkeit vor dem Absetzen gering ist.     

人工饲养条件下荒漠猫的饲养与繁殖管理

在人工饲养条件下,通过模拟野外栖息环境,加强科学饲养管理,成功繁殖荒漠猫的饲养管理方法和荒漠猫的发情、交配、妊娠、哺乳等繁殖行为。同时对在西宁动物园产下并成活的3只幼猫的体尺、体重、形态和行为的变化进行了描述。     

人工饲养条件下荒漠猫的饲养与繁殖管理

在人工饲养条件下,通过模拟野外栖息环境,加强科学饲养管理,成功繁殖荒漠猫的饲养管理方法和荒漠猫的发情、交配、妊娠、哺乳等繁殖行为。同时对在西宁动物园产下并成活的3只幼猫的体尺、体重、形态和行为的变化进行了描述。     

Die anatomischen Verhältnisse am Karpalgelenk des Geparden (Acinonyx jubatus), verglichen mit jenen der Hauskatze (Felis catus)

The anatomy of the carpal joint of the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) was examined in seven specimens using dissection and corrosion casts as well as radiography, and compared to well-known data of the domestic cat (Felis catus). It was found that in the cheetah, as in the domestic cat, the intermedioradial, ulnar and accessory carpal bones, as well as the first, second, third and fourth carpal bones and the sesamoid bone of the abductor pollicis longus muscle, develop in a regular manner. The bones had a similar shape and the ligamentous apparatus was comparable, the most striking differences being the connection of all compartments of the joint cavity and the mediocarpal joint, working as a screw joint. The syndesmosis between the intermedioradial and ulnar carpal bones, instead of a synovial connection, is another adaptation for stabilization of the carpus of the cheetah during locomotion. The joint capsule is little spacious and in all three recesses can be differentiated. The first extends proximally palmar the ulnar carpal bone between the styloid process of the ulna and the accessory carpal bone, the second also extends proximally mediopalmar of the intermedioradial bone, and the largest third recess is located on the dorsal surface and extends proximally, laterally to the inserting tendon of the extensor carpi radialis muscle.     

Histology and morphometry of the testes of adult domestic cats (Felis catus)

Testicles of 30 mongrel cats were analyzed histologically and morphometrically, divided into three groups: G1 (1-2 years old), G2 (over 2 and up to 4 years old) and G3 (over 4 and up to 6 years old). After orchiectomy and histopathology, the morphometric parameters studied were: thickness of the tunica albuginea (72 μm) and seminiferous epithelium (77.19 μm), perimeter (53.81; 90.57 μm), (54.80; 101.07 μm); area (174.23; 494.55 μm(2)), (176.68; 629.70 μm(2)); maximum diameter (14.94; 28.02 μm), (14.76; 31.66 μm); minimum diameter (13.25; 21.92 μm), (13.30; 24.52 μm); and shape factor (index for regularity of the format) (1.36; 1.36), (1.39; 1.35) of the nucleus and cytoplasm of spermatogonia and Leydig cells, respectively. The results can be used for comparative studies and contribute knowledge concerning the height of the seminiferous epithelium, thickness of the tunica albuginea and size of spermatogonia and Leydig cells.     

Functional responses of cougars (Puma concolor) in a multiple prey‐species system

The study of predator–prey interactions is commonly analyzed using functional responses to gain an understanding of predation patterns and the impact they have on prey populations. Despite this, little is known about predator–prey systems with multiple prey species in sites near the equator. Here we studied the functional response of cougars (Puma concolor) in relation to their main prey, armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus), coati (Nasua narica) and white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). Between 2004 and 2010, cougar scats were collected along 5 transects to estimate the consumption of different prey species. A relative abundance index (RAI) was calculated for each prey species and cougar using 18 camera traps. We compared Holling type I, II and III functional response models to determine patterns in prey consumption based on the relative abundance and biomass of each prey species consumed. The 3 main prey species comprised 55% (armadillo), 17% (coati) and 8% (white‐tailed deer) of the diet. Type I and II functional responses described consumption of the 2 most common prey species armadillos and coati similarly well, while a type I response best characterized consumption of white‐tailed deer. A negative correlation between the proportions of armadillo versus coati and white‐tailed deer biomass in cougar scats suggests switching to consume alternative prey, confirming high foraging plasticity of this carnivore. This work represents one of the few studies to compare functional responses across multiple prey species, combined with evidence for prey‐switching at low densities of preferred prey.     

Distribution of the enzyme rhodanese in tissues of the cat (Felis catus)

The enzyme rhodanese (EC 2.8.1.1) is an ubiquitous enzyme which is present in all living organisms, from bacteria to man. It is speculated that this enzyme plays a central role in cyanide detoxification. However, its wide tissue distribution suggests this enzyme might perform other functions beside cyanide detoxification. Although the distribution of rhodanese in different tissues of human and domestic animals has been studied, little is known about the pattern of distribution and physiological roles of this enzyme in the cat. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the enzyme levels and compare the distribution of this enzyme in different tissues of the cat. A selection of tissue samples was assayed for rhodanese activity. The protein content of tissue extracts and enzymatic activities were calculated as units per gram tissue and units per milligram protein of the tissue. Results showed that in terms of units per milligram protein of the tissue (specific activity of the enzyme), colon and rectum mucosal layers and testis were the richest sources of the enzyme followed by ovary, mucosal layer of jejunum and liver. With respect to units/gram tissue, liver followed by testis, colon and rectum mucosal layers, ovary and mucosa of jejunum exhibited highest activities. The results of this study will allow one to speculate on the involvement of rhodanese in several biochemical and physiological functions in different tissues and organs of this species.