Rescued wildcats enjoying life in forever homes

EXOTIC wildcats rescued from a former sanctuary have found new forever homes thanks to a major collaborative effort from the veterinary and wildlife communities, including specialist welfare input from IVC Evidensia. 

A total of 28 wildcats were removed from the facility, which has since closed down, with three settling into life at The Big Cat Sanctuary in Ashford, Kent.

They are an incredibly rare Asian golden cat called Frank, a Eurasian Lynx called Rhys and a fishing cat called Boson.

All three are having their complex needs met with spacious enclosures, dedicated care and species-appropriate enrichment, which is designed to allow the animals to express natural behaviours. 

Of the 25 other wildcats - which include pumas, servals and an Amur leopard, which is one of the most endangered big cats in the world - 20 have been given new permanent homes while five were sadly euthanised due to poor health . 

All of the rescued cats had been looked after by teams from Hertfordshire Zoo and The Big Cat Sanctuary, its sister site, while efforts were made to rehome them.

This followed a major welfare case, during which inspectors raised serious concerns about the lack of care the animals were receiving. The facility’s owner was successfully prosecuted.

Boson the fishing cat

David Martin, group director of animal welfare at IVC Evidensia, was called upon to provide expert veterinary evidence for the prosecution. 

He said: “This is definitely up there with the most unusual cases I've worked on. I’ve never dealt with so many exotic animals in one case.

“Their basic husbandry was really poor, there was inadequate nutrition, and they were lacking in basic veterinary care which led to high mortality rates.  

“It’s incredibly rewarding to now see them thriving in properly managed environments. Their health has improved significantly, and they’re finally receiving the care they deserve.

“We’re so proud our welfare team could play a part in helping rehome these beautiful animals.” 

Cameron Whitnall, conservationist, wildlife expert and managing director of The Big Cat Sanctuary, said: “These animals have been through a lot but watching them adjust to their new home and form bonds with their carers has been amazing.

“This rescue brought together the very best of the wildlife community, with all of us coming together for one common cause: the wellbeing of these incredible animals. We’re thrilled that the cats could be rehomed to places where they can flourish.” 

Mr Martin added: “Our job is to support clinical teams on the ground wherever concerns arise - whether it’s an African lion or a hamster.

“We first need to support owners who need our help, but we also have a duty to report when the support is not being effective. The IVC Evidensia welfare team is there for our colleagues and the animals when they need us most.” 

The IVC Evidensia welfare team is available to provide advice to any veterinary practice across the UK via its non-accidental injury line. To contact email nai@ivcevidensia.com or welfare@ivcevidensia.com