The Bueng Chawak Wildlife Management Center has updated the care status of the wild elephant calf "Khaotom," reporting her condition is steadily improving, she is cheerful and normal, and the strength in both front legs—previously abnormal—is increasing.
On 21 December 2025 GMT+7, the Bueng Chawak Wildlife Management Center reported progress on the care of a female wild elephant calf named "Khaotom." Veterinarian Nathanon Panpetch, specialist veterinarian and head of Bueng Chawak Wildlife Sanctuary, revealed that from 16-20 December 2025 GMT+7, Khaotom’s condition has shown continuous improvement.
Monitoring her condition shows that Khaotom can drink milk, although still less than the calculated amount. Her urination is normal, while her stool remains loose with cream-like content. The cream-like portion has increased compared to the loose portion, indicating her digestive system is recovering. Additionally, no hypoglycemia was detected at any time during testing.
The veterinary team is providing comprehensive treatment, including intravenous fluids, vitamins, liver supplements, medication for gastrointestinal ulcers, antibiotics, and antispasmodics for abdominal cramps when needed, as well as oral calcium with multivitamins. At the same time, they are continuously treating wounds and pressure sores on her skin by cleaning, spraying medication, applying ointments, and using laser therapy.
Encouragingly, Khaotom shows normal cheerful behavior and interest in her environment. She can sit and stand by herself. Notably, the strength in both front legs, which had abnormalities, is increasing, allowing her to lift her legs more quickly. When staff assist her in walking exercises for 5-10 minutes and help her turn over every 2 hours, her movements have noticeably become quicker than before.
The veterinary team continues care by massaging and stretching her front legs and regularly using ultrasound therapy to relax muscles and tendons. Veterinarians, animal keepers, and forest rangers are closely monitoring and assessing Khaotom’s condition daily, providing 24-hour attentive care.
The Bueng Chawak Wildlife Management Center expresses gratitude to all sectors supporting and following Khaotom’s condition and will continue to update the public on her progress.