The Department of National Parks has assembled a veterinary team to urgently treat the illnesses of "Mary" and "Christmas," two white lions seized by the Marines near the Trat border, after they were found to be constipated. A long-term health rehabilitation plan has also been developed.
On 9 January 2026, it was reported that Mr. Sutthipong Kaemtubtim, Head of the Wildlife Breeding Unit at the Wildlife Conservation Office, disclosed an update on the welfare care of these seized wild animals. On 8 January 2026, a veterinary team conducted health examinations and rehabilitation for two white lions at the Khao Son Wildlife Breeding Station in Ratchaburi Province after severe excretory symptoms were detected.
The situation arose after Mr. Pakpoom Aramsirirujivet, Head of Khao Son Wildlife Breeding Station, reported abnormal behavior in both white lions, including decreased appetite along with straining and difficulty defecating. This prompted an urgent request for veterinary support to provide immediate treatment.
The team consisted of Ms. Supakan Kaewchoti, Senior Veterinarian (Wildlife Breeding Unit); Ms. Sunita Wingwon, Veterinarian (Wildlife Breeding Unit); and Ms. Laksana Prasitichai, Senior Veterinarian (Wildlife Conservation Division, Protected Areas Regional Office 3, Ban Pong).
Preliminary diagnosis under anesthesia and abdominal X-rays showed clear constipation in both lions, with fecal impaction in the distal intestines but no blockage from large foreign objects. The veterinarians performed an enema to flush out the hardened fecal masses.
The enema revealed that the fecal masses contained hair strands, sand grains, and numerous small bone fragments, which were key factors causing straining and constipation. The medical team administered intravenous and subcutaneous fluids, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers, and restorative medications to aid recovery.
Additionally, an oral health examination and further X-rays found extensive tooth decay and heavy tartar buildup, impairing feeding efficiency. The veterinary team performed tartar removal to improve oral condition and quality of life. Blood samples were also taken for laboratory tests to assess internal health in detail.
The two white lions were seized as confiscated wild animals after being rescued by Marine soldiers near Ban Tha Sen, Chamrak Subdistrict, Mueang District, Trat Province (at the Thai-Cambodian border near the Thmoda Casino). They have been under care at Khao Son Station since 25 December 2025. The female was named "Mary" and the male "Christmas" to commemorate their arrival on Christmas morning and symbolize a wish for a new, safe life.
After treatment, both lions recovered well from anesthesia without complications. Mr. Pakpoom Aramsirirujivet, the station chief, along with the veterinary team, has planned close ongoing care including scheduled medications, dietary adjustments suited to their behavior, and continuous monitoring of their excretory system to ensure "Mary" and "Christmas" regain full health and proper welfare in the long term.
Information provided by the Facebook page of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.