Panda Cub at Smithsonian’s Zoo Has His First Vaccine

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: October 26, 2020 2:50 pm

The giant panda cub at Smithsonian’s National Zoo is 2 months old

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo Panda Cub has received a quick health check and his first vet visit as he celebrated turning 2 months old.

Zoo veterinarian, Dr. James Steeil gave the cub a check over including an examination of his heart lungs, eyes and ears, he also palpated his belly, which appeared to be full. Following the exam he received the canine distemper vaccine. Despite a small jump at the initial prick of the needle he quickly settled down.

The panda cub at the Smithsonian National Zoo

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Keepers observe that the cub continues to develop. He can push his forearms up and position his legs under his hips giving keepers hope he will walk for the first time in the next month. Currently he is crawling with his coordination improving each day.

Despite being a bit of a ‘wiggle worm’ while keepers tried to take his measurements they were able to confirm that the cub is now as round as he is long. His length is now 42cm (16.5in) which matches his girth. His weight is now 3kg (6.5lbs).

A video of the giant panda cub during its health check

Video Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

— AD —

Keepers continue to keep the exams short – this one lasted just 8 minutes. This is enough time for mum, Mei Xiang to take a walk outside and enjoy a fruitsicle in some sunlight.

The panda cub at the Smithsonian National Zoo

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Learn more about giant pandas – Giant Panda Fact File | The Animal Facts

Learn more about Smithsonian’s National Zoo on their website – Smithsonian’s National Zoo