Manila Zoo elephant Mali dies of heart disease, cancer

The elephant Vishwa Ma’ali, or Mali at the Manila Zoo, died of heart disease, according to the results of an examination of his lips.

In the press conference this Wednesday, Manila Zoo veterinarian Dr. Heinrich Patrick “Chip” Domingo said the cause of Mali’s death was congestive heart failure based on the results of the necropsy performed on the elephant’s corpse.

It was also discovered that he had cancer.

“Nakita namin iyon aorta, iyong tubo palabas ng kaniyang puso, ito po ay may makapal na taba na nakabara. Maaari iyon po ang naging cause ng pagkamatay niya, iyong congestive heart failure,” explained Domingo.

“Nahihirapan na po iyong puso niya i-pump iyong enough blood sa katawan dahil sa dami ng organs na affected po sa kaniya,” he added.

Tumors were also found around some of Mali’s organs, such as the pancreas and kidneys. According to Domingo, Mali’s kidney is swollen and covered with fat.

Mali passed away at the Manila Zoo at 3:45 p.m. this Tuesday.

According to Domingo, they noticed on Friday that Mali was irritable and pacing around in his cage as if he was not feeling well.

Manila Zoo elephant Mali dies of heart disease, cancer

The watchers reportedly discussed what they observed. This Saturday, Mali lost his appetite and was scratching his trunk against the wall.

Mali’s poor condition continued the following day. Until this Monday, Mali did not finish his food and was said to be drinking water regularly.

This Tuesday morning at 5 a.m., Mali sat up, and, an hour later lay on his side.

Domingo said they gave Mali emergency drugs such as antihistamines, multivitamins, anticonvulsants, and IV fluids.

Around 11:30 a.m., Mali’s pupil is said to be dilated.

According to Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna, Mali is estimated to be 43 years old, who was sent to the Philippines by the Sri Lankan government in 1981, and not 1977.

Manila reportedly plans to preserve Mali’s remains through taxidermy.

The local government of Manila will also contact the Sri Lankan government to find out the possibility of getting another elephant for the Manila Zoo.