Kasatka is the matriarch of our killer whale family at SeaWorld San Diego. In her early 40s, she is a mom, grandmother, and is beloved by all her trainers and veterinarians.
There have been a lot of questions from fans, supports and many others about Kasatka’s health – so we’re here with the latest update about her illness, as well as the care she’s receiving on a day-to-day basis.
We have been treating Kasatka for a bacterial respiratory infection for several years. While we are cautiously optimistic as we continue to care for Kasatka, we know that this is a progressive disease, and as Kasatka and her immune system age, she is having a more difficult time fending off the illness.
However, our animal care team remains passionately committed to providing her the best possible care to ensure that her illness is properly managed and that she continues to live a quality life.
Here’s a look at the latest update about Kasatka, straight from the team that is caring for her:
We know many of you have questions, so we’ve provided answers to some of the most frequently asked questions below:
Q: It has been suggested that Kasatka has a fungal infection. Is that true?
A: No, there is no evidence of a fungal infection. Kasatka was first diagnosed in 2008 with pneumonia, and has received treatment and ongoing care under the supervision of veterinarians with decades of experience in specialized medicine for marine mammals, working with in-house clinical pathologists in partnership with outside specialists at National Jewish Health, a leading institute in the treatment of respiratory disease.
Q: How many veterinarians do you have on staff?
A: SeaWorld San Diego has three on-staff veterinarians, specializing in marine animal medicine. The on-site staff also consults with the other 15 veterinary experts across the company, as well as outside veterinary medical specialists when warranted.
Q: What are the patches or pigmentation seen on Kasatka’s skin recently? Is she in pain?
A: As we have shared in recent updates, we have been treating Kasatka for a progressive bacterial respiratory infection, and veterinarians suspect the illness may have extended to her skin, or may be the result of the medication she is receiving. Killer whale skin regularly sloughs off, and the team is seeing new growth underneath, which is good. Every day we are monitoring her to ensure she is comfortable, watching her energy and attitude. Our primary goal is always to ensure her quality of life, and we will continue to monitor Kasatka’s overall health, engagement and appetite.
Q: Are the orcas regularly treated with anti-fungal or antibiotic drugs?
A: If an animal needs help, we provide it. Just like other veterinarians and medical doctors, we use medications to treat illness and injury according to veterinary best practice. We take great pride in how we care for the animals living in our parks. This includes preventive health practices, like vaccines and sometimes even probiotics, to safeguard the health of our animals. Just like veterinarians and doctors everywhere, our approach to health care evolves and advances with new information every year.
Q: Has this type of infection been identified in wild orcas?
A: Pneumonia, or respiratory inflammation or infection, is the number one cause of illness and mortality seen in all cetaceans, both in the wild and in zoological care.
Q: Has Kasatka had any calves?
A: Kasatka is a mom, grandmother and great grandmother. She has had two daughters and two sons (Takara, Kalia, Nakai and Makani). She also has five grandchildren (Kohana, Trua, Sakari, Kamea and Amaya) and two great grandchildren (Adan and Victoria).
Q: How can I learn more about Kasatka?
A: You can visit Kasatka at the brand new Orca Encounter at SeaWorld San Diego or take a look at her profile page at SeaWorldCares.com