PREVIEW

Staff at Oakland Zoo rescued an eight-month old tiger from a Tiger King-style private facility in the western U.S.


The female tiger was found to be suffering from numerous improperly healed fractures in her bones.
Oakland Zoo’s Veterinary Hospital staff performed a thorough physical exam, CT scan, and bloodwork.
It was determined that the patient had ten pathological fractures, leading to pain and a lack of mobility. This led to a 50% muscle atrophy in her legs. She was supplemented with nutrients and given the necessary pain medication.
“I’ve treated over 100 cases of rescued big cats, and unfortunately, these injuries can lead to lifelong medical issues”, says Dr. Ryan Sadler, Senior Veterinarian at Oakland Zoo
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The Zoo’s Veterinary Hospital team is working to build her calcium and muscle growth, which can take several weeks to months. Once her bones have built enough calcium, the Zoo’s Veterinarians will work with surgeons to determine the next steps. Oakland Zoo veterinarians are cautiously optimistic that she will make a full recovery.
“Seeing this young tiger enduring such obvious suffering is extremely difficult…no animal should experience life in this way. We are grateful to serve in a role that gives her hope for brighter days ahead”, says Nik Dehejia, CEO of Oakland Zoo
When she fully heals and is cleared, she will move to a permanent home at a licensed facility specializing in big cat care.
Oakland Zoo chiefs supported the federal Big Cat Public Safety Act (BCPSA) - aimed at preventing zoos for profit like the Oklahoma zoo run by convicted felon Joe Exotic in Tiger King.