Veterinarians in Zimbabwe recently treated an African elephant with a painful swelling in his genitals after a likely mating-related injury led to an infection.
The young adult male was spotted near Lake Kariba in Matusadona National Park with visibly swollen testicles and penis, prompting locals to alert park management. In response, specialist veterinarians from Harare were called to assist.
Veterinarians from the Kariba Animal Welfare Fund Trust managed to locate and treat the distressed elephant.
According to a charity spokesperson, the elephant had developed an intense swelling in his genital area.
The veterinary team initially suspected a mating injury and immobilized the elephant to conduct a thorough examination.
The examination revealed generalized edema—a fluid buildup—in the tissues surrounding the elephant’s penis, likely due to gravity affecting the area.
Early blood tests also suggested possible heart involvement, although further tests were still pending.
To aid his recovery, veterinarians administered a large dose of anti-inflammatory medication along with antibiotics and vitamins.
The elephant is believed to have recovered and eventually rejoined his herd.
