Use of Ayurvedic aphrodisiac
Three days ago, the zoo began administering “Viryatone,” an Ayurvedic supplement containing safed muesli, shatavari, and ashwagandha. The supplement, commonly used to enhance sexual health in pets, is being adapted for the tiger to improve his mating behaviour.
Female tiger ready, male unresponsive
Dr. Rajesh Patel, the zoo superintendent, explained that Garima, who has shown signs of sexual maturity for over a year, has been actively encouraging mating. “The female has been actively encouraging the male to mate, but Gaurav rarely shows interest. Even when he does mount, their attempts have not been successful,” Dr. Patel told TOI.
Efforts to improve breeding success
The zoo’s breeding program is crucial for conservation efforts, as white tigers are rare and require specific conditions to reproduce. Dr. Patel noted that males tend to mature later than females in tigers. “Since females tend to mature earlier than males in tigers, we are giving the supplement to Gaurav to improve his mating capabilities,” he said, adding that the supplement is safe for the cat family and has previously been used for dogs.
The zoo’s initiative aims to enhance breeding outcomes and contribute to the conservation of white tigers in captivity.
