Michael and I have known one another for his entire life of 12 years. He is very dear to all of us at CFAR. He is one of the “The Angels ” along with his brother Gabriel and sister Angel. The three of them are truly special and magnificent creatures. We love them very much.

Michael stopped eating. We monitor this behavior very closely. When a big cat stops eating for one day we take notice, two days we are very concerned. That is how animals tell you that they are not well. If they have an intestinal bug or received some tainted food, it should run its course in 2-3 days, provided they continue to drink water. That is crucial.  If they stop drinking, they will become dehydrated very quickly and the vet must be called.

Michael retreated to his den and would not come out. He refused food and water and just lay there looking very uncomfortable. He responded to us with a chuff (tiger greeting) and looking at us, but didn’t want to get up.  We called in our veterinarian to provide treatment.  Once a port is established in the vein we can draw blood for lab work and administer IV respiratory stimulant drugs as required. If a big cat stops breathing, we all hold our breath out of concern and breathe a collective sigh of relief once they stabilize.

Michael was administered 4 liters of fluids, and several grams of  IV antibiotics. Blood was drawn and a complete physical exam, including palpating for abdominal or other masses, evaluation of teeth, claws, skin, eyes, ears, and nose was performed.  This is our standard evaluation for any such condition which threatens our cats.  It is not at all inexpensive. Since May and early June of 2017, we have had to run this protocol 8 times and we still expect several more procedures in the next few weeks.

This is why we are asking for your financial assistance. Taking good care of our resident big cats is an expensive proposition. 

Michael recovered from his procedure over the next few days, got a little bounce of pep, tried a little food, and then fell back into a similar funk after about a week.  We did a repeat procedure on Michael and rehydrated him. Frequently, we may need to do this anywhere from 1-3 times before an animal recovers.

Michael has been slowly recovering from his procedures.  During the illness he spent a lot of time grooming himself.  This left him with a few patches of fur missing but he has started eating again which is great.  The patches are slowly growing back and he is far more eager to engage with us.

At CFAR we are acutely aware of mankind’s awesome responsibility to care for and be the stewards of the Natural World.  That is why we are so committed to caring for the beautiful animals we have been entrusted to protect. We appreciate the monetary support that all of our supporters give us and ask for you to please donate as generously as you can to help us achieve our vision.