Hiatal hernia and diaphragmatic eventration in a leopard (Panthera pardus)

A I-yr-old male leopard (Panthera pardus) presented for intermittent anorex ia. emaciation. and generalized muscle wasting. Plain radiographs. ultrason ography, and esophageal endoscopy led to a diagnosis of diaphragmatic event ration with probable concurrent hiatal hernia. An exploratory laparotomy co nfirmed both diagnoses, and surgical repair and stabilization were performe d. After surgery, the leopard was maintained on small liquid meals for 4 da ys, with a gradual return to normal diet over 2 wk. By 4 wk after surgery, the leopard was eating well and gaining weight. and it showed no recurrence of clinical signs for 2 yr subsequently, becoming mildly obese.