Resolution of Gastric Impaction due to Inappropriate Browse Material in a Black Tailed Prairie Dog (Cynomys ludovicianus).

A captive black-tailed prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) was presented for clinical examination after showing signs of anorexia, progressive lethargy and absent fecal production. Based on physical examination and radiographic imaging, the prairie dog was diagnosed with gastric impaction after ingesting fresh browse. Fluids, analgesic and prokinetic medications led to the resolution of symptoms within 48 hours. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first reported diagnosis and resolution of gastric impaction in a prairie dog thus offering some diagnostic and medical options for this species. Based on the etiology in this case, it appears that offering large amount of fresh browse should be avoided in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]