It is with deep sadness that The Big Cat Sanctuary announces that we have had to say goodbye to two of our much-loved cats: Atara, our North Chinese leopard, and Kirana, our Sumatran tiger.
Both girls were in their late teens, Atara at 18 and Kirana at 19 and had naturally begun to slow down as they entered their retirement years. Throughout this time, the Sanctuary’s dedicated keeper and veterinary teams closely monitored them, providing round-the-clock care, regular assessments, and tailored treatment plans. Despite these efforts, both developed age-related conditions that were degenerative and ultimately incurable.
As their health declined, our expert team and the welfare ethics committee, consisting of our veterinary professionals, species specialists, senior operational staff, and external advisors, met to review all available options. When it became clear that there were no further treatments that could offer Atara and Kirana the quality of life they deserved, the unanimous and compassionate decision was made to allow them to pass away peacefully. This decision was taken with great care, seriousness, and respect for their welfare above all else.
Atara was one of the Sanctuary’s longest-standing residents, having arrived in 2008 at just over a year old. Initially cautious, she soon revealed her bold, charismatic nature. Atara was known for charging around her enclosure with purpose, especially when anticipating her meals, and for announcing her presence with unmistakable enthusiasm.
As she matured, her softer side became more apparent. Atara was frequently caught on camera being playful with her enrichment or seen lounging on her platforms, surveying the sheep in the neighbouring field. She was a favourite on photography days, weaving through foliage and posing effortlessly in the light. Alongside her former partner Ta’iri, she was well-known for having “the best whiskers in the business.”
Kirana joined the Sanctuary in early 2022, fittingly, the Chinese Year of the Tiger. Before her arrival, she made a significant contribution to the Sumatran tiger breeding programme, helping safeguard this critically endangered species while inspiring thousands of people to learn more about their conservation. She then came to the Sanctuary to enjoy a peaceful, comfortable retirement.
Kirana was one of the most vocal cats we have ever cared for, regularly calling across the site to make her presence known. In her youth, she was famously playful, often seen proudly carrying her blue barrel around. More recently, she cherished her quiet time, most often resting in her outdoor cave, tucked among the bamboo, where visitors eagerly searched to spot her.
Atara and Kirana will be remembered not only for their extraordinary beauty but also for their distinct, unforgettable characters. Each played an important role in the Sanctuary’s mission, inspiring guests, supporting conservation messaging, and shaping the lives of the teams who cared for them.
They were deeply loved members of The Big Cat Sanctuary family, and they will be profoundly missed.