Malaysia’s Nationwide Zoo has defended its remedy of what seems to be a visibly obese black leopard after a video of the animal went viral on social media.
The video posted by a TikTok consumer confirmed the male leopard named Apoh mendacity on his aspect in his enclosure in Zoo Negara. The video went on to rack up greater than two million views and prompted a wave of jokes and memes throughout social media, with many viewers referring to Apoh as “chonky” and evaluating him to a bear.
Nevertheless, some raised questions in regards to the animal’s bodily situation and whether or not it pointed to doable neglect or insufficient enclosure requirements.
Responding to the feedback, Zoo Negara issued an announcement in Malay underneath the unique put up, saying Apoh was underneath shut supervision by veterinary workers.
“Don’t be concerned, our vet staff is caring for Apoh with love, giving him the most effective remedy and shut consideration. They’re monitoring Apoh intently and ensuring Apoh is okay. We admire the phrases of encouragement given to assist Apoh attain his perfect weight,” the zoo stated, based on an internet translation.
In a separate put up on 15 July, which the zoo claimed was Apoh’s fifteenth birthday, the zoo stated the animal was being given the most effective care. It added that Apoh was a part of the zoo’s animal “adoption” programme, the place common individuals might help fund his meals, healthcare and enrichment.
“Sure, Apoh is wanting a little bit chonky however don’t fear! Our devoted zookeepers and vets are retaining a detailed eye on him and ensuring he will get the most effective care doable. We actually admire all of your concern and help for serving to our animals keep in nice form,” the assertion learn.
The current footage of Apoh stand in stark distinction from a 2023 video of him, the place he appeared much more energetic in addition to bodily fitter.
Zoo Negara has declined to remark.
Whereas most individuals on-line have been referring to Apoh as a panther, the zoo clarified in an earlier social media put up that the time period “black panther” is a basic descriptor for any melanistic huge cat, together with leopards, jaguars, and pumas. In Apoh’s case, he’s a leopard whose darkish pigmentation masks the attribute rosette patterns on his coat, making them tough to see.
Social media response has been combined, with some customers merely expressing their adoration for the large cat and others warning in regards to the risks of weight problems in captive animals.
“If harmful why cute?” requested one individual.
“Apoh appears to be like like a bear! His chonkiness is oh so tremendous tremendous lovable, however better of luck to the keepers in serving to him drop a few pounds and reside longer! We hope to see him again in an athletic superhero black panther form quickly!” wrote one other.
