Siesta the Sloth gets a Wellness Exam at the Zoo

Go behind-the-scenes with our amazing veterinary team for an up-close view of Siesta the sloth during his senior wellness exam! 🦥 As sloths age, just like humans, our kidneys, liver and other organs may not work as well, or begin to show degenerative changes. The median life expectancy for a two-toed sloth in human care is 16 years. At 20 years old, Siesta is considered a super senior at Point Defiance Zoo. Under anesthesia, Siesta had blood drawn to screen for signs of organ dysfunction. If our veterinarians detect changes from his baseline, they are prompted to further evaluate the organs through x-rays or ultrasound. Radiographs allow our veterinarians to look for signs of arthritis, or in the case of dental radiographs, dental disease and x-rays let them assess the size and shape of the organs to make sure all appears normal. If there are changes, they can follow up with appropriate treatment. In Siesta’s case, the senior sloth has significant arthritis along his spine and his teeth are very worn. Siesta is currently on medication to help ease any discomfort and a modified diet helps him get the nutrition he needs. ❤️