Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Luna, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Luna weighed in at 39.5 kilograms (86.9 pounds), down almost 2 kilograms from when she was last weighed in July.
Luna still occupies the area near the lockdown pens, which was the area that was the first introduction to Bellebeno for her and her three coalition mates. However, Luna seems to be the only one of the four using that area, as the others have settled in other areas of the 64 hectare enclosure. At two and a half years old, Luna is at the age when she would separate from her siblings to start having cubs. That instinct to be alone might be the reason that Luna has chosen to be on her own.
Although she is submissive towards people, she seems to have established a dominant role in the big enclosure. During feeding times, she slaps the other cheetahs away if they get too close
Thank you again for sponsoring Luna and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
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Monday, 7 May 2007
Tempesta - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Tempesta, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Tempesta weighed in at 37 kilograms (81.4 pounds), down 1 kilogram from when she was last weighed in July.
In the weeks before the exams, CCF staff noticed that the hair was missing from the neck behind her right ear. There was a hole in the middle of the bald spot, with some scarring around the hole. Since it didn’t seem to affect her health at all, we decided to leave it until the exams and work her up first. When we got her on the table, we could see that the hole was probably caused by a thorn of some sort. The veterinarian cleaned the wound, although by that point, it had pretty much cleared up on its own. When a gastric biopsy, or endoscopy, is performed, we always inject antibiotics as a standard procedure, so a further dose was not necessary. Other than a bald spot that will soon disappear, she has had no effects from that injury. Cats in general are pretty immune to infections and Tempesta demonstrated that very well.
She is back in Bellebeno, spending more of her time with Samantha. This is expected, since they came to CCF at around the same time, with Cleo and Luna joining them later. They are both three and a half years old, born in July of 2003. Tempesta is starting to get bold and assertive, fending off the older and more dominant Nina and Solo to get a spot near the gate during feeding time.
Thank you again for sponsoring Tempesta and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Tempesta, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Tempesta weighed in at 37 kilograms (81.4 pounds), down 1 kilogram from when she was last weighed in July.
In the weeks before the exams, CCF staff noticed that the hair was missing from the neck behind her right ear. There was a hole in the middle of the bald spot, with some scarring around the hole. Since it didn’t seem to affect her health at all, we decided to leave it until the exams and work her up first. When we got her on the table, we could see that the hole was probably caused by a thorn of some sort. The veterinarian cleaned the wound, although by that point, it had pretty much cleared up on its own. When a gastric biopsy, or endoscopy, is performed, we always inject antibiotics as a standard procedure, so a further dose was not necessary. Other than a bald spot that will soon disappear, she has had no effects from that injury. Cats in general are pretty immune to infections and Tempesta demonstrated that very well.
She is back in Bellebeno, spending more of her time with Samantha. This is expected, since they came to CCF at around the same time, with Cleo and Luna joining them later. They are both three and a half years old, born in July of 2003. Tempesta is starting to get bold and assertive, fending off the older and more dominant Nina and Solo to get a spot near the gate during feeding time.
Thank you again for sponsoring Tempesta and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Cleo - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Cleo, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Cleo weighed in at 37 kilograms, down 2 kilograms from when she was last weighed in July.
In addition to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Cleo was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Cleo, at almost 3 years old, was in the young group.
She is still in the 64 hectare enclosure at Bellebeno and has become more independent. She shows up alone at mealtimes, without her coalition mates Luna, Samantha, and Tempesta. She is very food oriented and always makes a mad rush for the first piece of food thrown. She is usually successful, but on the rare occasion she isn’t, she will chase and even grab it right out of the mouth of whoever grabbed it first. This is a throwback to her antics when she was in a smaller enclosure with her three coalition mates. You can be sure Cleo would never miss a meal.
Thank you again for sponsoring Cleo and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Cleo, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Cleo weighed in at 37 kilograms, down 2 kilograms from when she was last weighed in July.
In addition to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Cleo was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Cleo, at almost 3 years old, was in the young group.
She is still in the 64 hectare enclosure at Bellebeno and has become more independent. She shows up alone at mealtimes, without her coalition mates Luna, Samantha, and Tempesta. She is very food oriented and always makes a mad rush for the first piece of food thrown. She is usually successful, but on the rare occasion she isn’t, she will chase and even grab it right out of the mouth of whoever grabbed it first. This is a throwback to her antics when she was in a smaller enclosure with her three coalition mates. You can be sure Cleo would never miss a meal.
Thank you again for sponsoring Cleo and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Hershey - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Hershey, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Hershey weighed in at 36 kilograms (79.2 pounds), the same as last year.
Hershey is the shyest of the three ‘Chocolates Girls’. However shy she may be, she proved to be a good hunter. She came to the car one day with a guinea fowl in her mouth, a fresh kill but she hadn’t started eating it. Once she saw us, she seemed to say “I have something, but I like what you have better,” dropped the guinea fowl and started running after the car. Her round teddy bear face has proclaimed some to pronounce her the cutest one of the Chocolate sisters.
Thank you again for sponsoring Hershey and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Hershey, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Hershey weighed in at 36 kilograms (79.2 pounds), the same as last year.
Hershey is the shyest of the three ‘Chocolates Girls’. However shy she may be, she proved to be a good hunter. She came to the car one day with a guinea fowl in her mouth, a fresh kill but she hadn’t started eating it. Once she saw us, she seemed to say “I have something, but I like what you have better,” dropped the guinea fowl and started running after the car. Her round teddy bear face has proclaimed some to pronounce her the cutest one of the Chocolate sisters.
Thank you again for sponsoring Hershey and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Toblerone - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Toblerone, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Toblerone still weighs 38 kilograms (83.6 pounds), the same as last year.
Toblerone is the bravest of the three sisters, and first with everything, from showing up to the bakkie to grabbing her meat. Her bond with her sisters is very strong, as was evidenced this year after her exam. We had to pull a tooth and she was put onto antibiotics twice a day for five days. Since it is difficult to feed twice a day (the cats don’t come to the car if they’ve already eaten earlier that day), we put her into a holding pen adjacent to the 64 hectare enclosure. When we came in the evenings to give her meds, we could hear her calling for her sisters the whole time, a high pitched chirping alternating with a meowing. After her course of medicine was done, she was definitely glad to get out and be with her sisters again.
Thank you again for sponsoring Toblerone and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Toblerone, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Toblerone still weighs 38 kilograms (83.6 pounds), the same as last year.
Toblerone is the bravest of the three sisters, and first with everything, from showing up to the bakkie to grabbing her meat. Her bond with her sisters is very strong, as was evidenced this year after her exam. We had to pull a tooth and she was put onto antibiotics twice a day for five days. Since it is difficult to feed twice a day (the cats don’t come to the car if they’ve already eaten earlier that day), we put her into a holding pen adjacent to the 64 hectare enclosure. When we came in the evenings to give her meds, we could hear her calling for her sisters the whole time, a high pitched chirping alternating with a meowing. After her course of medicine was done, she was definitely glad to get out and be with her sisters again.
Thank you again for sponsoring Toblerone and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Nestle - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Nestlé, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Nestlé weighed in at 35 kilograms (77.5 pounds), the same as last year.
In addition to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Nestle was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Nestle at 4 ½ years old, was in the middle age group.
Nestlé and her two sisters are always found together and are very distinctive in their appearance; beautiful cats with fluffy round faces. She is always standing next to Toblerone, and although not the bravest, she is always ready to help her sister when needed.
Thank you again for sponsoring Nestlé and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Nestlé, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Nestlé weighed in at 35 kilograms (77.5 pounds), the same as last year.
In addition to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Nestle was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Nestle at 4 ½ years old, was in the middle age group.
Nestlé and her two sisters are always found together and are very distinctive in their appearance; beautiful cats with fluffy round faces. She is always standing next to Toblerone, and although not the bravest, she is always ready to help her sister when needed.
Thank you again for sponsoring Nestlé and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Amani - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Amani, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Amani now weighs 36.5 kilograms (80.3 pounds), gaining an impressive 6 kilograms since July.
In addition to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Amani was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Amani, at almost 3 years old, was in the young group.
As you know, Amani came to us in mid-June of last year. Following her quarantine period, she was put into the 64 hectare enclosure at our farm Bellebeno. Unfortunately, despite a month of “training” in a small holding pen, she was still not accustomed to our feeding method in that big enclosure. We drive a pickup truck (bakkie) through the pen and call the cheetahs. They all come eagerly and we encourage them to run behind the car for some exercise before tossing a piece of meat to each of them. Amani did not come to the car every day. Even though she had missed out a number of meals and had grown thinner, she was still extremely alert and bold. As the weight loss increased, however, we darted her and put her back into a holding pen, fitted with a radio collar so that we could track her when she went back into the big enclosure. For two months, we fed her in the holding pens and monitored her health and weight. During this time, she learned to associate the car with food.
She was released her back into the 64 hectare enclosure after she had gained sufficient weight. We only had to track her twice when she didn’t come for food. However, she is now one of the first to come to the car, as well as one of the best and most eager runners. She isn’t afraid of the other cats, people, or the car; she simply didn’t associate the car with food. She is also bold towards the other cats, sometimes grabbing food from them, as well as giving them a smack when they get too close. During the exam, we removed her radio collar. She has gotten many comments on her beauty, with some volunteers going so far as to say that she is CCF’s “supermodel” cat. What a beautiful success story!
Thank you again for sponsoring Amani and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Amani, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Amani now weighs 36.5 kilograms (80.3 pounds), gaining an impressive 6 kilograms since July.
In addition to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Amani was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Amani, at almost 3 years old, was in the young group.
As you know, Amani came to us in mid-June of last year. Following her quarantine period, she was put into the 64 hectare enclosure at our farm Bellebeno. Unfortunately, despite a month of “training” in a small holding pen, she was still not accustomed to our feeding method in that big enclosure. We drive a pickup truck (bakkie) through the pen and call the cheetahs. They all come eagerly and we encourage them to run behind the car for some exercise before tossing a piece of meat to each of them. Amani did not come to the car every day. Even though she had missed out a number of meals and had grown thinner, she was still extremely alert and bold. As the weight loss increased, however, we darted her and put her back into a holding pen, fitted with a radio collar so that we could track her when she went back into the big enclosure. For two months, we fed her in the holding pens and monitored her health and weight. During this time, she learned to associate the car with food.
She was released her back into the 64 hectare enclosure after she had gained sufficient weight. We only had to track her twice when she didn’t come for food. However, she is now one of the first to come to the car, as well as one of the best and most eager runners. She isn’t afraid of the other cats, people, or the car; she simply didn’t associate the car with food. She is also bold towards the other cats, sometimes grabbing food from them, as well as giving them a smack when they get too close. During the exam, we removed her radio collar. She has gotten many comments on her beauty, with some volunteers going so far as to say that she is CCF’s “supermodel” cat. What a beautiful success story!
Thank you again for sponsoring Amani and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Shadow - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Shadow, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual workups. Shadow is very shy and wary of anything different; she knew something was going on when we tried to lure her into the lockdown enclosures to capture her. She chose to go without food for several days rather than risk getting caught. In the end, we had to set up a trap cage and lure/trick her into entering the cage. Luckily, it worked so that we didn’t have to dart her, always a risky venture.
As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Shadow weighs 33.5 kilograms (73.7 pounds), the same as when she was weighed in July.
In addition to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Shadow was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Shadow at 9 years old, was in the old group.
When the very shy Shadow comes to the car for food, she sneaks through the bushes and waits for us near the road, hidden in the grass. She doesn’t run behind the car with the other cats and would rather avoid them if at all possible. And we sometimes have to make a second pass before she will appear from her hiding place. She certainly lives up to her name!
Thank you again for sponsoring Shadow and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Shadow, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual workups. Shadow is very shy and wary of anything different; she knew something was going on when we tried to lure her into the lockdown enclosures to capture her. She chose to go without food for several days rather than risk getting caught. In the end, we had to set up a trap cage and lure/trick her into entering the cage. Luckily, it worked so that we didn’t have to dart her, always a risky venture.
As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Shadow weighs 33.5 kilograms (73.7 pounds), the same as when she was weighed in July.
In addition to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Shadow was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Shadow at 9 years old, was in the old group.
When the very shy Shadow comes to the car for food, she sneaks through the bushes and waits for us near the road, hidden in the grass. She doesn’t run behind the car with the other cats and would rather avoid them if at all possible. And we sometimes have to make a second pass before she will appear from her hiding place. She certainly lives up to her name!
Thank you again for sponsoring Shadow and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Chanel - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Chanel, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Chanel weighed in at 44 kilograms (96.8 pounds) the same weight as last year.
In addition to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Chanel was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Chanel, at almost 7 years old, was in the old group.
Chanel is a very good runner and eager to receive her meat. She is aggressive and bold towards people, but not towards the other cats. She seems to enjoy lying in a crouch by the road, waiting until we pass to jump up in enormous leaps and sprints, catching up easily with the car.
Thank you again for sponsoring Chanel and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Chanel, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Chanel weighed in at 44 kilograms (96.8 pounds) the same weight as last year.
In addition to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Chanel was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Chanel, at almost 7 years old, was in the old group.
Chanel is a very good runner and eager to receive her meat. She is aggressive and bold towards people, but not towards the other cats. She seems to enjoy lying in a crouch by the road, waiting until we pass to jump up in enormous leaps and sprints, catching up easily with the car.
Thank you again for sponsoring Chanel and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Rosy - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Rosy, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Rosy now weighs 38 kilograms (85.8 pounds), up two kilograms from last year.
Rosy is still living in Bellebeno, and seems to have dealt with the loss of her sister well. In fact, for the first few days after Daisy’s death, Rosy kept coming to the car without her as if nothing was wrong. Since they do live alone in the wild, her natural instincts have taken over. However, during their release in 2004, they stayed together the whole 6 weeks that they were “wild.” Rosy usually comes to the car alone, from the same direction of the “territory” that she and Daisy used to occupy. At five years of age, she has seemed to bond somewhat with Samantha and Tempesta despite being a year and a half older than either of them. The three are sometimes waiting at the gate together when we drive up to feed them.
Thank you again for sponsoring Rosy and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Rosy, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Rosy now weighs 38 kilograms (85.8 pounds), up two kilograms from last year.
Rosy is still living in Bellebeno, and seems to have dealt with the loss of her sister well. In fact, for the first few days after Daisy’s death, Rosy kept coming to the car without her as if nothing was wrong. Since they do live alone in the wild, her natural instincts have taken over. However, during their release in 2004, they stayed together the whole 6 weeks that they were “wild.” Rosy usually comes to the car alone, from the same direction of the “territory” that she and Daisy used to occupy. At five years of age, she has seemed to bond somewhat with Samantha and Tempesta despite being a year and a half older than either of them. The three are sometimes waiting at the gate together when we drive up to feed them.
Thank you again for sponsoring Rosy and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Misty - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Misty, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Misty weighed in at 44 kilograms (96.8 pounds), up one kilogram from last year.
In addition to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Misty was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Misty, at 9 years old, was in the old group.
Misty has slowly started joining Nina and Solo in their coalition. During one Bellebeno Safari, Misty and Nina sat under a tree in the middle of the enclosure and groomed each other for 15 minutes, both purring contentedly. All three can be found near the gate, waiting patiently for us to feed them. Misty is a purring machine, constantly motoring away when you talk to her.
Thank you again for sponsoring Misty and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Misty, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Misty weighed in at 44 kilograms (96.8 pounds), up one kilogram from last year.
In addition to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Misty was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Misty, at 9 years old, was in the old group.
Misty has slowly started joining Nina and Solo in their coalition. During one Bellebeno Safari, Misty and Nina sat under a tree in the middle of the enclosure and groomed each other for 15 minutes, both purring contentedly. All three can be found near the gate, waiting patiently for us to feed them. Misty is a purring machine, constantly motoring away when you talk to her.
Thank you again for sponsoring Misty and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Solo - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Solo, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Solo now weighs 40.5 kilograms (89.1 pounds), up 2.5 kilograms from last year.
Solo is usually in a coalition with Nina, with Misty sometimes joining them; they are usually waiting by the gate for us when we come to feed them. Recently, they seemed to go their separate ways, as only Solo is at the gate waiting for us. Nina is at the opposite corner of the enclosure, as far from Solo as possible in the 64 hectare camp, with Misty as her occasional companion. Solo, however, is always found near the gate, which is indicative of her dominance over Nina. Misty will join Solo at the gate, but Nina isn’t a constant presence like Solo.
Thank you again for sponsoring Solo and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Solo, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Solo now weighs 40.5 kilograms (89.1 pounds), up 2.5 kilograms from last year.
Solo is usually in a coalition with Nina, with Misty sometimes joining them; they are usually waiting by the gate for us when we come to feed them. Recently, they seemed to go their separate ways, as only Solo is at the gate waiting for us. Nina is at the opposite corner of the enclosure, as far from Solo as possible in the 64 hectare camp, with Misty as her occasional companion. Solo, however, is always found near the gate, which is indicative of her dominance over Nina. Misty will join Solo at the gate, but Nina isn’t a constant presence like Solo.
Thank you again for sponsoring Solo and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Nina - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Nina, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Nina weighed in at 36 kilograms (79.2 pounds), the same as she was last year.
Nina is usually in a coalition with Solo, with Misty sometimes joining them; they are usually waiting by the gate for us when we come to feed them. Recently, they seemed to go their separate ways, as only Solo is at the gate waiting for us. Nina is at the opposite corner of the enclosure, as far from Solo as possible in the 64 hectare camp, with Misty as her occasional companion. During one Bellebeno Safari, Misty and Nina sat under a tree and groomed each other for 15 minutes, both purring. Solo, however, is always found near the gate, which is indicative of her dominance over Nina. Nina does come back to the gate near Solo, stays for a week, and then goes away again.
Thank you again for sponsoring Nina and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Nina, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Nina weighed in at 36 kilograms (79.2 pounds), the same as she was last year.
Nina is usually in a coalition with Solo, with Misty sometimes joining them; they are usually waiting by the gate for us when we come to feed them. Recently, they seemed to go their separate ways, as only Solo is at the gate waiting for us. Nina is at the opposite corner of the enclosure, as far from Solo as possible in the 64 hectare camp, with Misty as her occasional companion. During one Bellebeno Safari, Misty and Nina sat under a tree and groomed each other for 15 minutes, both purring. Solo, however, is always found near the gate, which is indicative of her dominance over Nina. Nina does come back to the gate near Solo, stays for a week, and then goes away again.
Thank you again for sponsoring Nina and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
D'Artagnan - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, D’Artagnan, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Up five pounds from last year D’Artagnan weighs 43 kilograms (94.6lbs).
Since the exams we have noticed even more distinct differences in their personalities. D’Artagnan, who still exhibits some of the awkward behavior that is characteristic of a juvenile, is one of the gang of 5 “tough guys.” When they are fed, they approach slowly, heads down, rumbling, hissing, and sometimes stomping and acting very aggressive. It is quite a sight to see all five coming in together. D’Artagnan is always the last to grab his food partly because of his shy behavior but also because in a rush he often misses. Along with the other guys he looks vicious as possible when rushing in to grab his meat and then joins the others at their safe and secluded spot under the tree.
Thank you for again sponsoring D’Artagnan and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, D’Artagnan, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Up five pounds from last year D’Artagnan weighs 43 kilograms (94.6lbs).
Since the exams we have noticed even more distinct differences in their personalities. D’Artagnan, who still exhibits some of the awkward behavior that is characteristic of a juvenile, is one of the gang of 5 “tough guys.” When they are fed, they approach slowly, heads down, rumbling, hissing, and sometimes stomping and acting very aggressive. It is quite a sight to see all five coming in together. D’Artagnan is always the last to grab his food partly because of his shy behavior but also because in a rush he often misses. Along with the other guys he looks vicious as possible when rushing in to grab his meat and then joins the others at their safe and secluded spot under the tree.
Thank you for again sponsoring D’Artagnan and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Porthos - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Porthos, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Porthos weighted 40.5 kilograms (89.1lbs) up six pounds from his previous weight.
Since the exams we have noticed even more distinct differences in their personalities. Porthos, who still exhibits some of the awkward behavior that is characteristic of a juvenile, is one of the gang of 5 “tough guys.” When they are fed, they approach slowly, heads down, rumbling, hissing, and sometimes stomping and acting very aggressive. It is quite a sight to see all five coming in together. Porthos is the leader of the Musketeers; his brothers wait until he approaches the feeding pen before doing the same. As with the other guys he looks vicious as possible when rushing in to grab his meat and then joins the others at their safe and secluded spot under the tree.
Thank you for again sponsoring Porthos and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Porthos, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Porthos weighted 40.5 kilograms (89.1lbs) up six pounds from his previous weight.
Since the exams we have noticed even more distinct differences in their personalities. Porthos, who still exhibits some of the awkward behavior that is characteristic of a juvenile, is one of the gang of 5 “tough guys.” When they are fed, they approach slowly, heads down, rumbling, hissing, and sometimes stomping and acting very aggressive. It is quite a sight to see all five coming in together. Porthos is the leader of the Musketeers; his brothers wait until he approaches the feeding pen before doing the same. As with the other guys he looks vicious as possible when rushing in to grab his meat and then joins the others at their safe and secluded spot under the tree.
Thank you for again sponsoring Porthos and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Athos - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Athos, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taking using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. He maintained the same weight from the previous year at 38.5 kilograms (84.7lbs).
As part of our ongoing research goals, Athos was chosen to be a part of a study to try and assess renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs; in a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Athos, at 2 years old, was in the young group.
Since the exams we have noticed even more distinct differences in their personalities. Athos, who still exhibits some of the awkward behavior that is characteristic of a juvenile, is one of the gang of 5 “tough guys.” When they are fed, they approach slowly, heads down, rumbling, hissing, and sometimes stomping and acting very aggressive. It is quite a sight to see all five coming in together. Athos is a follower, waiting until his pen mates, Saturn and Orion, start approaching to work up the courage to go to the feeding enclosure. As with the other guys he looks vicious as possible when rushing in to grab his meat and then joins the others at their safe and secluded spot under the tree.
Thank you for again sponsoring Athos and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Athos, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taking using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. He maintained the same weight from the previous year at 38.5 kilograms (84.7lbs).
As part of our ongoing research goals, Athos was chosen to be a part of a study to try and assess renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs; in a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Athos, at 2 years old, was in the young group.
Since the exams we have noticed even more distinct differences in their personalities. Athos, who still exhibits some of the awkward behavior that is characteristic of a juvenile, is one of the gang of 5 “tough guys.” When they are fed, they approach slowly, heads down, rumbling, hissing, and sometimes stomping and acting very aggressive. It is quite a sight to see all five coming in together. Athos is a follower, waiting until his pen mates, Saturn and Orion, start approaching to work up the courage to go to the feeding enclosure. As with the other guys he looks vicious as possible when rushing in to grab his meat and then joins the others at their safe and secluded spot under the tree.
Thank you for again sponsoring Athos and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Orion - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Orion, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. With another two years to grow, Orion weighs in at 51 kilograms (112.2lbs) which ties him for second heaviest cheetah! As with Saturn the vet believes he is over weight and is now being fasted on Wednesdays as well as Sundays.
As part of our ongoing research goals, Orion was chosen to be a part of a study to try and assess renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs; in a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Orion, at 2 ½ years old, was in the young group.
Orion, who has lost some of the shy and awkward behavior that he exhibited as a juvenile, is one of the gang of 5 “tough guys.” When they are fed, they approach slowly, heads down, rumbling, hissing, and sometimes stomping and acting very aggressive. It is quite a sight to see all five coming in together. Although he is five kilograms heavier than his brother, Orion still allows Saturn to move him out of the way so that he can grab the first piece of meat. As with the other guys he looks vicious as possible when rushing in to grab his meat and then joins the others at their safe and secluded spot under the tree.
Thank you for again sponsoring Orion and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Orion, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. With another two years to grow, Orion weighs in at 51 kilograms (112.2lbs) which ties him for second heaviest cheetah! As with Saturn the vet believes he is over weight and is now being fasted on Wednesdays as well as Sundays.
As part of our ongoing research goals, Orion was chosen to be a part of a study to try and assess renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs; in a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Orion, at 2 ½ years old, was in the young group.
Orion, who has lost some of the shy and awkward behavior that he exhibited as a juvenile, is one of the gang of 5 “tough guys.” When they are fed, they approach slowly, heads down, rumbling, hissing, and sometimes stomping and acting very aggressive. It is quite a sight to see all five coming in together. Although he is five kilograms heavier than his brother, Orion still allows Saturn to move him out of the way so that he can grab the first piece of meat. As with the other guys he looks vicious as possible when rushing in to grab his meat and then joins the others at their safe and secluded spot under the tree.
Thank you for again sponsoring Orion and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Saturn - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Saturn, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Despite maintaining his weight at 45.5 kilograms (100.1 lbs) the vet thought he had too much fat and he is now being fasted twice a week rather than the usual once per week. He seems to be taking that quite well.
As part of our ongoing research goals, Saturn was chosen to be a part of a study to try and assess renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs; in a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Saturn, at 2 ½ years old, was in the young group.
Saturn, who has lost some of the shy and awkward behavior that he exhibited as a juvenile, is one of the gang of 5 “tough guys.” When they are fed, they approach slowly, heads down, rumbling, hissing, and sometimes stomping and acting very aggressive. Although he is five kilograms smaller than his brother Orion, Saturn still jostles him out of the way to grab the first piece of food that is thrown their way. They make a point of looking as vicious as possible, grab their hunk of meat, and run as fast as they can to find a safe and secluded spot to dine in peace.
Thank you for again sponsoring Saturn and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Saturn, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Despite maintaining his weight at 45.5 kilograms (100.1 lbs) the vet thought he had too much fat and he is now being fasted twice a week rather than the usual once per week. He seems to be taking that quite well.
As part of our ongoing research goals, Saturn was chosen to be a part of a study to try and assess renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs; in a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Saturn, at 2 ½ years old, was in the young group.
Saturn, who has lost some of the shy and awkward behavior that he exhibited as a juvenile, is one of the gang of 5 “tough guys.” When they are fed, they approach slowly, heads down, rumbling, hissing, and sometimes stomping and acting very aggressive. Although he is five kilograms smaller than his brother Orion, Saturn still jostles him out of the way to grab the first piece of food that is thrown their way. They make a point of looking as vicious as possible, grab their hunk of meat, and run as fast as they can to find a safe and secluded spot to dine in peace.
Thank you for again sponsoring Saturn and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Cruise - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Cruise, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Cruise now weighs a healthy 42 kilograms (92.4lbs); the vet mentioned that his lean muscled body is how a cheetah is supposed to look.
As part of our ongoing research goals, Cruise was chosen to be a part of a study to try and assess renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs; in a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Cruise, at 10 years old, was in the old group.
Cruise is a very special cat; a favorite of many of the staff and volunteers, although no one seems to know why. He’s a scrapper, and that may be the charm. He is a cat to be respectful of and no one goes into the enclosure with him. At feeding time, he doesn’t wait expectantly for his food as some of the others do, but instead runs up to hiss and bat at anyone in the vicinity of his fence, claiming his territory with clear warnings to intruders. He is unrepentant of his behavior and perhaps that wild cheetah spirit is a large part of his charisma.
One of his canines was chipped off several years ago, and it was seen during the workup that the root was infected, requiring daily antibiotics which were hidden in a piece of meat. Since the infection didn’t clear up, a trip to the dentist was necessary, so he was taken to the vet in Otjiwarongo. The infected root was excised and he recovered immediately. He will be put on antibiotics and have his meat cut into chunks for the next month. He still does his tough guy routine, but he secretly seems to enjoy being pampered.
Thank you again for sponsoring Cruise and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Cruise, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Cruise now weighs a healthy 42 kilograms (92.4lbs); the vet mentioned that his lean muscled body is how a cheetah is supposed to look.
As part of our ongoing research goals, Cruise was chosen to be a part of a study to try and assess renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs; in a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Cruise, at 10 years old, was in the old group.
Cruise is a very special cat; a favorite of many of the staff and volunteers, although no one seems to know why. He’s a scrapper, and that may be the charm. He is a cat to be respectful of and no one goes into the enclosure with him. At feeding time, he doesn’t wait expectantly for his food as some of the others do, but instead runs up to hiss and bat at anyone in the vicinity of his fence, claiming his territory with clear warnings to intruders. He is unrepentant of his behavior and perhaps that wild cheetah spirit is a large part of his charisma.
One of his canines was chipped off several years ago, and it was seen during the workup that the root was infected, requiring daily antibiotics which were hidden in a piece of meat. Since the infection didn’t clear up, a trip to the dentist was necessary, so he was taken to the vet in Otjiwarongo. The infected root was excised and he recovered immediately. He will be put on antibiotics and have his meat cut into chunks for the next month. He still does his tough guy routine, but he secretly seems to enjoy being pampered.
Thank you again for sponsoring Cruise and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Merlot - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Merlot, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. He gained 3 kilograms since last year and now weighs 45 kilograms (99lbs).
In previous years for annual exams, we always darted Merlot since he doesn’t go into a box like some of our younger and less aggressive cats. However, this year we made use of squeeze cages that were designed and built last July to use for a study by the Smithsonian Institute. These cages are constructed of iron bars welded together, with doors made of chain link fencing. A wooden floor prevents any foot injuries and a movable side panel allows us to move them to one side, helping in transferring them into a box for transport to the clinic. This is much safer and less stressful for the cats.
A few days before the exams neither he nor his coalition mate Klein came up to eat. We drove around his enclosure and were surprised to see a wild cheetah that they had been sniffing through the fence. Their neighbors Josie and Gremlin were also sniffing with their wild neighbor. After the wild cheetah ran away, they started going up to their eating area, they focused on food and everything returned to normal.
In October, a jackal somehow made its way into the pen, but managed to find its own way out. Then in December, a warthog got into the pen but, made another hole on the opposite side of the fence to make his escape. A walking inspection of the fence line was done and two holes were found, and immediately repaired.
In mid-January, a controlled burn cleared the pen of excess built up grass, restoring the land. The grass has since re-grown, bringing with it a few flowers, including some beautiful white lilies that either hadn’t been there previously or were choked out by the thick grass. The cats now have a lot of space to move freely under trees and between bushes. It also makes mowing in their pens much easier!
Thank you for sponsoring Merlot and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Merlot, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. He gained 3 kilograms since last year and now weighs 45 kilograms (99lbs).
In previous years for annual exams, we always darted Merlot since he doesn’t go into a box like some of our younger and less aggressive cats. However, this year we made use of squeeze cages that were designed and built last July to use for a study by the Smithsonian Institute. These cages are constructed of iron bars welded together, with doors made of chain link fencing. A wooden floor prevents any foot injuries and a movable side panel allows us to move them to one side, helping in transferring them into a box for transport to the clinic. This is much safer and less stressful for the cats.
A few days before the exams neither he nor his coalition mate Klein came up to eat. We drove around his enclosure and were surprised to see a wild cheetah that they had been sniffing through the fence. Their neighbors Josie and Gremlin were also sniffing with their wild neighbor. After the wild cheetah ran away, they started going up to their eating area, they focused on food and everything returned to normal.
In October, a jackal somehow made its way into the pen, but managed to find its own way out. Then in December, a warthog got into the pen but, made another hole on the opposite side of the fence to make his escape. A walking inspection of the fence line was done and two holes were found, and immediately repaired.
In mid-January, a controlled burn cleared the pen of excess built up grass, restoring the land. The grass has since re-grown, bringing with it a few flowers, including some beautiful white lilies that either hadn’t been there previously or were choked out by the thick grass. The cats now have a lot of space to move freely under trees and between bushes. It also makes mowing in their pens much easier!
Thank you for sponsoring Merlot and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Klein - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Klein, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. H is also our second heaviest cat at 51 kilograms (112.2lbs)!
In previous years for annual exams, we always darted Klein since he doesn’t go into a box like some of our younger and less aggressive cats. However, this year we made use of squeeze cages that were designed and built last July to use for a study by the Smithsonian Institute. These cages are constructed of iron bars welded together, with doors made of chain link fencing. A wooden floor prevents any foot injuries and a movable side panel allows us move them to one side, helping in transferring them into a box for transport to the clinic.
As part of our ongoing research goals, Klein was chosen to be a part of a study to try and assess renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs; in a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Klein, at 7 years old, was in the middle age group.
A few days before the exams neither he nor his coalition mate Merlot came up to eat. We drove around his enclosure and were surprised to see a wild cheetah that they had been sniffing through the fence. Their neighbors Josie and Gremlin were also sniffing with their wild neighbor. After the wild cheetah ran away, they started going up to their eating area, they focused on food and everything returned to normal.
In October, a jackal somehow made its way into the pen, but managed to find its own way out. Then in December, a warthog got into the pen but, made another hole on the opposite side of the fence to make his escape. A walking inspection of the fence line was done and two holes were found, and immediately repaired.
In mid-January, a controlled burn cleared the pen of excess built up grass, restoring the land. The grass has since re-grown, bringing with it a few flowers, including some beautiful white lilies that either hadn’t been there previously or were choked out by the thick grass. The cats now have a lot of space to move freely under trees and between bushes. It also makes mowing in their pens much easier!
Thank you again for sponsoring Klein and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Klein, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. H is also our second heaviest cat at 51 kilograms (112.2lbs)!
In previous years for annual exams, we always darted Klein since he doesn’t go into a box like some of our younger and less aggressive cats. However, this year we made use of squeeze cages that were designed and built last July to use for a study by the Smithsonian Institute. These cages are constructed of iron bars welded together, with doors made of chain link fencing. A wooden floor prevents any foot injuries and a movable side panel allows us move them to one side, helping in transferring them into a box for transport to the clinic.
As part of our ongoing research goals, Klein was chosen to be a part of a study to try and assess renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs; in a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Klein, at 7 years old, was in the middle age group.
A few days before the exams neither he nor his coalition mate Merlot came up to eat. We drove around his enclosure and were surprised to see a wild cheetah that they had been sniffing through the fence. Their neighbors Josie and Gremlin were also sniffing with their wild neighbor. After the wild cheetah ran away, they started going up to their eating area, they focused on food and everything returned to normal.
In October, a jackal somehow made its way into the pen, but managed to find its own way out. Then in December, a warthog got into the pen but, made another hole on the opposite side of the fence to make his escape. A walking inspection of the fence line was done and two holes were found, and immediately repaired.
In mid-January, a controlled burn cleared the pen of excess built up grass, restoring the land. The grass has since re-grown, bringing with it a few flowers, including some beautiful white lilies that either hadn’t been there previously or were choked out by the thick grass. The cats now have a lot of space to move freely under trees and between bushes. It also makes mowing in their pens much easier!
Thank you again for sponsoring Klein and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Gremlin - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Gremlin, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. He has gained 2 kilograms since last year and now weighs 43.5 kilograms (95.7lbs).
In previous years for annual exams, we always darted Gremlin since he doesn’t go into a box like some of our younger and less aggressive cats. However, this year we made use of squeeze cages that were designed and built last July for a study by the Smithsonian Institute. These cages are constructed of iron bars welded together, with doors made of chain link fencing. A wooden floor prevents any foot injuries and a movable side panel allows us move them to one side, helping in transferring them into a box for transport to the clinic.
A few days before the exams neither he nor his coalition mate Josie came up to eat. We drove around his enclosure and were surprised to see a wild cheetah that they had been sniffing through the fence. Their neighbors Klein and Merlot were also sniffing with their wild neighbor. After the wild cheetah ran away, they started going up to their eating area, they focused on food and everything returned to normal.
Male coalitions have a definite hierarchal structure. After being separated during the exams Josie and Gremlin reestablished their roles with a minor scuffle, reinforcing Josie’s position as top cat over Gremlin.
In October, a jackal somehow made its way into the pen, but managed to find its own way out. Then in December, a warthog got into the pen but made another hole on the opposite side of the fence to make his escape. A walking inspection of the fence line was done and two holes were found, and immediately repaired.
In mid-January, a controlled burn cleared the pen of excess built up grass, restoring the land. The grass has since re-grown, bringing with it a few flowers, including some beautiful white lilies that either hadn’t been there previously or were choked out by the thick grass. The cats now have a lot of space to move freely under trees and between bushes. It also makes mowing in their pens much easier!
Thank you again for sponsoring Gremlin and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Gremlin, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. He has gained 2 kilograms since last year and now weighs 43.5 kilograms (95.7lbs).
In previous years for annual exams, we always darted Gremlin since he doesn’t go into a box like some of our younger and less aggressive cats. However, this year we made use of squeeze cages that were designed and built last July for a study by the Smithsonian Institute. These cages are constructed of iron bars welded together, with doors made of chain link fencing. A wooden floor prevents any foot injuries and a movable side panel allows us move them to one side, helping in transferring them into a box for transport to the clinic.
A few days before the exams neither he nor his coalition mate Josie came up to eat. We drove around his enclosure and were surprised to see a wild cheetah that they had been sniffing through the fence. Their neighbors Klein and Merlot were also sniffing with their wild neighbor. After the wild cheetah ran away, they started going up to their eating area, they focused on food and everything returned to normal.
Male coalitions have a definite hierarchal structure. After being separated during the exams Josie and Gremlin reestablished their roles with a minor scuffle, reinforcing Josie’s position as top cat over Gremlin.
In October, a jackal somehow made its way into the pen, but managed to find its own way out. Then in December, a warthog got into the pen but made another hole on the opposite side of the fence to make his escape. A walking inspection of the fence line was done and two holes were found, and immediately repaired.
In mid-January, a controlled burn cleared the pen of excess built up grass, restoring the land. The grass has since re-grown, bringing with it a few flowers, including some beautiful white lilies that either hadn’t been there previously or were choked out by the thick grass. The cats now have a lot of space to move freely under trees and between bushes. It also makes mowing in their pens much easier!
Thank you again for sponsoring Gremlin and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Josie - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Josie, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. He has lost a kilogram since last year and now weighs 44 kilograms (96.8 lbs)!
In previous years, we had to dart Josie to anesthetize him for his annual exam, but this year we made use of squeeze cages that were designed and built last July for a study by the Smithsonian Institute. These cages are constructed of iron bars welded together, with doors made of chain link fencing. A wooden floor prevents any foot injuries and a movable side panel allows us to move them to one side, helping in transferring them into a box for transport to the clinic. This is much safer and less stressful for the cats than darting.
A few days before the physical exams neither Josie nor his coalition mate, Gremlin came up to eat. We drove around his enclosure and were surprised to see a wild cheetah they had been sniffing through the fence. Their neighbors Klein and Merlot were also sniffing with their wild neighbor. After the wild cheetah ran away, they started going up to their eating area, focused on food and everything returned to normal.
Male coalitions have a definite hierarchal structure. After being separated during the exams Josie and Gremlin reestablished their roles with a minor scuffle, reinforcing Josie’s position as top cat.
In October, a jackal somehow made its way into the pen, but managed to find its own way out. Then in December, a warthog got into the pen but, made another hole on the opposite side of the fence to make his escape. A walking inspection of the fence line was done and two holes were found, and immediately repaired.
In mid-January, a controlled burn cleared the pen of excess built up grass, restoring the land. The grass has since re-grown, bringing with it a few flowers, including some beautiful white lilies that either hadn’t been there previously or were choked out by the thick grass. The cats now have a lot of space to move freely under trees and between bushes. It also makes mowing in their pens much easier!
Thank you again for sponsoring Josie and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Josie, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. He has lost a kilogram since last year and now weighs 44 kilograms (96.8 lbs)!
In previous years, we had to dart Josie to anesthetize him for his annual exam, but this year we made use of squeeze cages that were designed and built last July for a study by the Smithsonian Institute. These cages are constructed of iron bars welded together, with doors made of chain link fencing. A wooden floor prevents any foot injuries and a movable side panel allows us to move them to one side, helping in transferring them into a box for transport to the clinic. This is much safer and less stressful for the cats than darting.
A few days before the physical exams neither Josie nor his coalition mate, Gremlin came up to eat. We drove around his enclosure and were surprised to see a wild cheetah they had been sniffing through the fence. Their neighbors Klein and Merlot were also sniffing with their wild neighbor. After the wild cheetah ran away, they started going up to their eating area, focused on food and everything returned to normal.
Male coalitions have a definite hierarchal structure. After being separated during the exams Josie and Gremlin reestablished their roles with a minor scuffle, reinforcing Josie’s position as top cat.
In October, a jackal somehow made its way into the pen, but managed to find its own way out. Then in December, a warthog got into the pen but, made another hole on the opposite side of the fence to make his escape. A walking inspection of the fence line was done and two holes were found, and immediately repaired.
In mid-January, a controlled burn cleared the pen of excess built up grass, restoring the land. The grass has since re-grown, bringing with it a few flowers, including some beautiful white lilies that either hadn’t been there previously or were choked out by the thick grass. The cats now have a lot of space to move freely under trees and between bushes. It also makes mowing in their pens much easier!
Thank you again for sponsoring Josie and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Harry - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Harry, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Harry has almost doubled her weight from last year, from 19 to 34 kilograms (approx. 75 lbs.)! She is still smaller than her brother Ron but, but outweighs her sister, Hermione.
At 19 months old, Harry and her siblings are at an age when they would be independent of their mother. The three of them would normally stay together for another three months, until eventually, a single male or male coalition would force the male sibling (Ron) out so they could mate with the females. Harry and Hermione would then stay in the same general home area where they were born and would raise their cubs there.
However, while in captivity the sibling group need not worry about separating. As a precautionary measure Ron was given contraception in the form of a microchip this year during his annual exam. Along with his sisters, he continues to enjoy exercising by running after their lure system. While Hermione is the most eager, Harry remains the most tireless runner of the trio, as well as the fastest. She still jumps up before we can give her a meat treat and walks away from the rag she has worked so hard to snag.
At feeding time, all three race to their feeding bowls, with Ron and Harry usually leading the charge. Harry is the last to finish, but is usually able to keep Ron from stealing her food by growling at him when he comes too close. When she needs to, she will slap at him, a final warning, as if to say “I’m not going to tell you again. Let me eat!” When she finishes eating, she retires to a shady tree and lies down to let her food digest.
Thank you again for sponsoring Harry and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Harry, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Harry has almost doubled her weight from last year, from 19 to 34 kilograms (approx. 75 lbs.)! She is still smaller than her brother Ron but, but outweighs her sister, Hermione.
At 19 months old, Harry and her siblings are at an age when they would be independent of their mother. The three of them would normally stay together for another three months, until eventually, a single male or male coalition would force the male sibling (Ron) out so they could mate with the females. Harry and Hermione would then stay in the same general home area where they were born and would raise their cubs there.
However, while in captivity the sibling group need not worry about separating. As a precautionary measure Ron was given contraception in the form of a microchip this year during his annual exam. Along with his sisters, he continues to enjoy exercising by running after their lure system. While Hermione is the most eager, Harry remains the most tireless runner of the trio, as well as the fastest. She still jumps up before we can give her a meat treat and walks away from the rag she has worked so hard to snag.
At feeding time, all three race to their feeding bowls, with Ron and Harry usually leading the charge. Harry is the last to finish, but is usually able to keep Ron from stealing her food by growling at him when he comes too close. When she needs to, she will slap at him, a final warning, as if to say “I’m not going to tell you again. Let me eat!” When she finishes eating, she retires to a shady tree and lies down to let her food digest.
Thank you again for sponsoring Harry and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Hermione - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Hermione, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. She has almost doubled her weight from last year, from 17.5 (38.5lbs) to 32 kilograms (70 lbs). She will keep growing and putting on a little bit more weight, but she is almost at her final adult weight.
In additional to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Hermione was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and older; Hermione, at 19 months old, was in the youngest age group.
As you know, Hermione lives with her brother, Ron, and sister, Harry. Siblings develop a strong relationship. In the wild, Ron would have been kicked out by this point, but because Ron can not be put with other males at CCF due to his younger age, the siblings will continue to live together with help from Ron’s contraceptive implant. Hermione stands out with her distinctive dark coloration and feisty personality. All three continue to enjoy exercising by running after the lure system. Hermione continues to be the most eager to run, often encouraging her siblings into joining in.
Surprisingly, at feeding time, it’s a different story. All three races to their feeding bowls, but most of the time Ron and Harry lead the charge and it’s Hermione that is the last to arrive. They almost always eat in the same positions; Ron and Harry flanking Hermione. Hermione is usually the first to finish and doesn’t get greedy and try to steal from her siblings. When she finishes eating, she retires to a shady tree and lies down to let her food digest.
Thank you again for sponsoring Hermione and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Hermione, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. She has almost doubled her weight from last year, from 17.5 (38.5lbs) to 32 kilograms (70 lbs). She will keep growing and putting on a little bit more weight, but she is almost at her final adult weight.
In additional to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Hermione was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and older; Hermione, at 19 months old, was in the youngest age group.
As you know, Hermione lives with her brother, Ron, and sister, Harry. Siblings develop a strong relationship. In the wild, Ron would have been kicked out by this point, but because Ron can not be put with other males at CCF due to his younger age, the siblings will continue to live together with help from Ron’s contraceptive implant. Hermione stands out with her distinctive dark coloration and feisty personality. All three continue to enjoy exercising by running after the lure system. Hermione continues to be the most eager to run, often encouraging her siblings into joining in.
Surprisingly, at feeding time, it’s a different story. All three races to their feeding bowls, but most of the time Ron and Harry lead the charge and it’s Hermione that is the last to arrive. They almost always eat in the same positions; Ron and Harry flanking Hermione. Hermione is usually the first to finish and doesn’t get greedy and try to steal from her siblings. When she finishes eating, she retires to a shady tree and lies down to let her food digest.
Thank you again for sponsoring Hermione and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Ron - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Ron, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taking using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks.
The last time Ron was weighed was in June 2006 when one of his molars was removed. At that time, he weighed 32.5 kilograms; he is now 39 kilograms (85.6 lbs)!
As you know, Ron is in his enclosure with his two sisters, Hermione and Harry. We would have separated him by now and put him with other males of his age, but unfortunately, we do not have any males his age. He also began to exhibit behaviors of sexually mature males. Therefore, he was given contraceptive hormones, which are used to suppress sperm production. As part of our male cheetah’s routine physical exams, we collect sperm, assess it’s quality, and hopefully freeze samples for future use. CCF staff was pleasantly surprised to discover that 19-month-old Ron had viable sperm. Most male cheetahs have viable sperm only after 20 months.
In the wild, Ron and his sisters would now be independent from their mother. In another few months, Ron would be forced out by the local dominant males to find a home area of his own. However, at CCF, thanks to his implant, Ron can stay with his sisters permanently. This way he can continue to harass his sisters at feeding time for their bones. A little growling from Harry will usually keep him off unless it is organ day and then he gets a bit more persistent. Despite his love for food, he is less easily persuaded to let go of the flag during the cheetah run when offered a piece of meat, and likes to pull on the rag as you try.
Thank you again for sponsoring Ron and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Ron, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent his annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taking using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. He was also given his annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks.
The last time Ron was weighed was in June 2006 when one of his molars was removed. At that time, he weighed 32.5 kilograms; he is now 39 kilograms (85.6 lbs)!
As you know, Ron is in his enclosure with his two sisters, Hermione and Harry. We would have separated him by now and put him with other males of his age, but unfortunately, we do not have any males his age. He also began to exhibit behaviors of sexually mature males. Therefore, he was given contraceptive hormones, which are used to suppress sperm production. As part of our male cheetah’s routine physical exams, we collect sperm, assess it’s quality, and hopefully freeze samples for future use. CCF staff was pleasantly surprised to discover that 19-month-old Ron had viable sperm. Most male cheetahs have viable sperm only after 20 months.
In the wild, Ron and his sisters would now be independent from their mother. In another few months, Ron would be forced out by the local dominant males to find a home area of his own. However, at CCF, thanks to his implant, Ron can stay with his sisters permanently. This way he can continue to harass his sisters at feeding time for their bones. A little growling from Harry will usually keep him off unless it is organ day and then he gets a bit more persistent. Despite his love for food, he is less easily persuaded to let go of the flag during the cheetah run when offered a piece of meat, and likes to pull on the rag as you try.
Thank you again for sponsoring Ron and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Leia - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Leia, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Leia weighted 34 kilograms (74.8lbs), making her the smallest cat in her enclosure with Blondi, Dusty, and Sandy
In additional to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Leia was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Leia, at almost 11 years old, was in the old age group.
Leia continues to remain active, running with zeal as she chases the lure with her pen mates Blondie, Dusty, and Sandy. Despite her age, she continues to be one of the most focused at catching the rag. One of her favorite games is to stalk the lure. Leia sits under a tree, hardly visible to spectators. As the lure passes, she jumps out to ambush her “prey”. Leia is unwilling to take meat off the spoon. She prefers to have the meat thrown to her.
Thank you again for sponsoring Leia and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Leia, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Leia weighted 34 kilograms (74.8lbs), making her the smallest cat in her enclosure with Blondi, Dusty, and Sandy
In additional to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Leia was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Leia, at almost 11 years old, was in the old age group.
Leia continues to remain active, running with zeal as she chases the lure with her pen mates Blondie, Dusty, and Sandy. Despite her age, she continues to be one of the most focused at catching the rag. One of her favorite games is to stalk the lure. Leia sits under a tree, hardly visible to spectators. As the lure passes, she jumps out to ambush her “prey”. Leia is unwilling to take meat off the spoon. She prefers to have the meat thrown to her.
Thank you again for sponsoring Leia and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Sandy - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Sandy, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Sandy maintained her weight of 36 kilograms (79.2lbs), since the last time she was weighed in July.
In additional to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Sandy was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Sandy, at 7 years old, is considered middle-aged.
One particularly eventful day, last autumn, a warthog showed up in front of Sandy’s enclosure. After one unsuccessful attempt after another by staff to shoo the warthog away, Sandy began to charge the fence line. With a stomp and a snort, the warthog faced her and charged right back unimpressed by the cheetah’s attempts to scare him off. The charging continued back and forth between prey and predator. Had the fence not been there, who knows who would have won the fight? In the end, the wart hog ran off and Sandy trotted back to lie underneath one of her favorite shade trees.
Thank you again for sponsoring Sandy and we hope for your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Sandy, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Sandy maintained her weight of 36 kilograms (79.2lbs), since the last time she was weighed in July.
In additional to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Sandy was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Sandy, at 7 years old, is considered middle-aged.
One particularly eventful day, last autumn, a warthog showed up in front of Sandy’s enclosure. After one unsuccessful attempt after another by staff to shoo the warthog away, Sandy began to charge the fence line. With a stomp and a snort, the warthog faced her and charged right back unimpressed by the cheetah’s attempts to scare him off. The charging continued back and forth between prey and predator. Had the fence not been there, who knows who would have won the fight? In the end, the wart hog ran off and Sandy trotted back to lie underneath one of her favorite shade trees.
Thank you again for sponsoring Sandy and we hope for your continued support in the future.
Dusty - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Dusty, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Dusty has gained 1 kilogram since July, making her 37 kilograms (81.4lbs), which is a perfectly average weight female cheetahs.
In additional to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Dusty was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Dusty, at 7 years old, is considered middle-aged.
Out of her three other pen mates, Blondie, Leia, and Sandy, Dusty continues to be the most zealous cheetah during their lure runs. Just like people, animals’ personalities change over time. Dusty used to be very interested in people and now she is less likely to approach her keepers, acting more like a wild cheetah.
Thank you again for sponsoring Dusty and we hope for your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Dusty, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Dusty has gained 1 kilogram since July, making her 37 kilograms (81.4lbs), which is a perfectly average weight female cheetahs.
In additional to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Dusty was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Dusty, at 7 years old, is considered middle-aged.
Out of her three other pen mates, Blondie, Leia, and Sandy, Dusty continues to be the most zealous cheetah during their lure runs. Just like people, animals’ personalities change over time. Dusty used to be very interested in people and now she is less likely to approach her keepers, acting more like a wild cheetah.
Thank you again for sponsoring Dusty and we hope for your continued support in the future.
Blondi - April 2007
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Blondi, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Blondi weighed in at 41 kilograms (90.2lbs), down 2 kilograms from when she was last weighed in July. Forty-one kilograms is a little heavy for a female cheetah, which is not too surprising. While her pen mates, Sandy, Dusty, and Leia usually love to run after the lure, Blondie on the other hand would rather watch them or lie down, being admired by visitors.
In additional to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Blondi was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Blondie, at 7 years old, is considered middle-aged.
Blondie spends much of her time walking the fence line, occasionally flirting with Chewbaaka across the way.
Thank you again for sponsoring Blondi and we hope for your continued support in the future.
In mid-February, Blondi, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Blondi weighed in at 41 kilograms (90.2lbs), down 2 kilograms from when she was last weighed in July. Forty-one kilograms is a little heavy for a female cheetah, which is not too surprising. While her pen mates, Sandy, Dusty, and Leia usually love to run after the lure, Blondie on the other hand would rather watch them or lie down, being admired by visitors.
In additional to the annual physical exam and in conjunction with our ongoing research collaborations, Blondi was also chosen to be part of a study assessing renal disease in captive cheetahs. Renal disease is considered to be the leading cause of death in captive cheetahs. In a study of 29 zoos in the USA, renal disease was found in 82% of cats; in South Africa, the prevalence rate is 80%. There were three age groups: young, middle, and old; Blondie, at 7 years old, is considered middle-aged.
Blondie spends much of her time walking the fence line, occasionally flirting with Chewbaaka across the way.
Thank you again for sponsoring Blondi and we hope for your continued support in the future.
Samantha -April 2007
Samantha
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Samantha, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Samantha weighed in at 32 kilograms (70.4 pounds), down almost 2 kilograms from when she was last weighed in July. This makes her the lightest cat in Bellebeno. However, that doesn’t mean she is timid. She makes up for her size by trying to be a very big cat during meal times, slapping the ground and doing her best to give people a good scare.
Samantha is still in the 64 hectare Bellebeno enclosure along with her coalition mates Tempesta, Luna, and Cleo. She and Tempesta have bonded more, but this is expected, since they came to CCF at around the same time, with Cleo and Luna joining them later. They are both three and a half years old, born in July of 2003.
In mid-January, we had a bit of a scare with her. She didn’t show up to eat for three days, so we decided to search for her. This required 10 people to walk the pen in transects, with no one more than a couple of meters apart. We started at 7am, but lo and behold, when we pulled up to the gate, there was Samantha waiting for us at the gate! Her reward was a nice big piece of meat, which she happily carried off into the bush. Since then, Samantha has shown up to eat every day.
Thank you again for sponsoring Samantha and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Greetings from Namibia! Quite a lot has happened since your last update:
In mid-February, Samantha, along with the rest of our resident cats, underwent her annual physical exam. As part of an ongoing study of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) in captive cheetahs, several gastric biopsies were taken using an endoscope. This year for the first time, staff and volunteers were able to see inside of the esophagus and stomach via the endoscopic camera using a monitor. She was also given her annual vaccines against rabies and other feline diseases and Frontline was applied to help control flies and ticks. Samantha weighed in at 32 kilograms (70.4 pounds), down almost 2 kilograms from when she was last weighed in July. This makes her the lightest cat in Bellebeno. However, that doesn’t mean she is timid. She makes up for her size by trying to be a very big cat during meal times, slapping the ground and doing her best to give people a good scare.
Samantha is still in the 64 hectare Bellebeno enclosure along with her coalition mates Tempesta, Luna, and Cleo. She and Tempesta have bonded more, but this is expected, since they came to CCF at around the same time, with Cleo and Luna joining them later. They are both three and a half years old, born in July of 2003.
In mid-January, we had a bit of a scare with her. She didn’t show up to eat for three days, so we decided to search for her. This required 10 people to walk the pen in transects, with no one more than a couple of meters apart. We started at 7am, but lo and behold, when we pulled up to the gate, there was Samantha waiting for us at the gate! Her reward was a nice big piece of meat, which she happily carried off into the bush. Since then, Samantha has shown up to eat every day.
Thank you again for sponsoring Samantha and we hope that we can count on your continued support in the future.
Kanini - April 2007
Kanini is a flower child and although she wasn’t born in the 60’s, she makes the most of the epithet. She plays in the gardens with the exuberance of youth and can be seen standing among the cacti, posing for the camera, looking at you as if to say, “Isn’t this the most wonderful shot?”
At a little over a year, Kanini is gorgeous in appearance and temperament. Her lithe body is covered in closely spaced small dark spots, while those on her legs are larger and spaced to reveal more of her golden tan background color. There is an imp peeking out through her eyes.
Her real charm is in her personality, which pops out all the time. She plays chase with a small blue ball, but she plays by her rules. As close as we can figure they are these:
· You throw the ball.
· Kanini chases it at a fairly good speed, but not along the trajectory of the ball.
· She detours to make graceful leaps over the gardens and termite mounds.
· Next, she gets to the ball and plops down on the ground.
· You are expected to come and get the ball while she rests and then you may throw it again.
Besides her ball, Kanini loves her chase toy which has small wood and plastic bits at the end of a lunge whip tassel, having her tail pulled, and Laurie, not necessarily in that order.
Thank you again for sponsoring Kanini and we hope for your continued support in the future.
At a little over a year, Kanini is gorgeous in appearance and temperament. Her lithe body is covered in closely spaced small dark spots, while those on her legs are larger and spaced to reveal more of her golden tan background color. There is an imp peeking out through her eyes.
Her real charm is in her personality, which pops out all the time. She plays chase with a small blue ball, but she plays by her rules. As close as we can figure they are these:
· You throw the ball.
· Kanini chases it at a fairly good speed, but not along the trajectory of the ball.
· She detours to make graceful leaps over the gardens and termite mounds.
· Next, she gets to the ball and plops down on the ground.
· You are expected to come and get the ball while she rests and then you may throw it again.
Besides her ball, Kanini loves her chase toy which has small wood and plastic bits at the end of a lunge whip tassel, having her tail pulled, and Laurie, not necessarily in that order.
Thank you again for sponsoring Kanini and we hope for your continued support in the future.
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