WASHINGTON — (WMAL) The National Zoo’s panda cub, Bei Bei, is recovering from emergency surgery for an intestinal blockage. The zoo released the following information on its Facebook page Friday:
Giant panda cub Bei Bei is awake and recovering after a successful surgery this morning.
Yesterday, animal care staff noticed Bei Bei showing signs of stomach discomfort and nausea. He was sleeping more than normal and not eating.
This morning, an ultrasound of his stomach and bowels revealed a blockage of chewed-up bamboo at the top of the small intestine. Veterinarians performed life-saving surgery to remove the mass of bamboo that was distending the small intestine and preventing intestinal movement.
To ensure his recovery goes smoothly and veterinary and animal care staff have access to Bei Bei, he will be housed separately from Mei Xiang, his mother, and off the panda cams for the next few days. The Zoo will provide daily updates on Bei Bei’s recovery via social media. The panda house is temporarily closed. Bao Bao, Mei Xiang and Tian Tian may be viewed in their outdoor yards.
A full description of Bei Bei’s surgery can be found on the Zoo’s website: http://s.si.edu/2fhhLeC
