Clinical Chemistry and Hematology Values in Captive European Mink (Mustela lutreola): Reference Intervals and Evaluation of the Effects of Sex, Age, and Body Condition

The European mink is a critically endangered mustelid. Species-specific hematological and biochemical reference intervals are lacking, complicating accurate health assessments in conservation programs. This study aimed to determine these reference intervals for European mink, following international guidelines, with 110 blood samples collected under isoflurane anesthesia, outside the breeding season, from 75 captive individuals (37 females, 38 males). Results were broadly comparable to the American mink and domestic ferret. Several parameters varied significantly according to sex, age, and body condition. Males showed higher hemoglobin (p = 0.031), whereas females, higher platelet (p = 0.014) and leukocyte counts, cholesterol, urea, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (p ≤ 0.002), and globulin concentrations (p = 0.005). Males also had higher creatinine and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (p < 0.001). Juveniles had higher leukocyte counts (p = 0.047) and ALP and calcium concentrations (p ≤ 0.016), while adults showed higher globulin and creatinine values (p ≤ 0.014). Overweight individuals exhibited increased hemoglobin and hematocrit (p ≤ 0.018) and mild electrolyte differences (p ≤ 0.045). Separate intervals for sex and age were not warranted for most analytes. These results provided specific reference intervals useful for essential health monitoring and clinical decision-making in conservation breeding, translocation, and reintroduction programs of European mink.