It is with a heavy heart that we inform you that on Monday 27th May we lost our dear puma, Viktoria.
Earlier this year, during a routine veterinary check, Viktoria was diagnosed with kidney disease, a condition that, while manageable, sadly has no cure. She was immediately placed on a supportive care plan, including medication and close monitoring by our team.
For a time, Viktoria remained stable under this care, but in recent weeks, her health began to decline. Around two weeks ago, she stopped eating completely, prompting further assessment by our vet. Blood tests confirmed that her kidney function had deteriorated significantly, and sadly, her kidneys had failed.
After thoughtful consultation with our vet, Valerie Freeman, and with Viktoria’s comfort and wellbeing as our top priority, it became clear that there were no remaining treatment options. The most compassionate and ethical decision was to let her go peacefully, to prevent any further suffering. Viktoria reached the amazing age of 17 years old, which is an incredible age for a puma, as in the wild they live on average between 12–13 years. Viktoria lived a long and happy life with us here at the sanctuary.
Viktoria was a truly beautiful puma, who had the elegance and poise of a supermodel, with striking features that looked like they’d been perfectly contoured with makeup. She would often strut alongside her sister, Valentina, like they were on a catwalk, turning their enclosure into a runway.
Quieter and more reserved than her sister, Viktoria had a calm presence. It was always a special moment when Viktoria greeted you with her soft, friendly chittering, a gentle hello that felt like a privilege to receive.
Viktoria was known for her signature moves on our photography workshops. When meaty treats were thrown near her pond, Viktoria would showcase her classic pose of jumping over her pond with an almighty leap in the air! This became a classic ‘shot’ for Viktoria which caused much delight with the photography guests. The slightly more serious Valentina would take a leaf out of Viktoria’s book and on special occasions, they would jump together.
Viktoria had a particular fondness for the scent of fennel seeds, which brought out her playful side, especially when scattered on a cardboard box. Curious by nature, Viktoria loved to observe her surroundings from high up on a beam or platform, often keeping a watchful eye on any activity in the area. When the builders were working nearby, she’d perch up high like a supervisor overseeing the job, as if she were quality control.
The bond she shared with Valentina was lovely to see. They were often seen sat together in their cave or box, in mirror image or gently grooming one another. We will be keeping a close eye on Valentina and make sure she is receiving continuous comfort and care.
Viktoria was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.