CT scans reveal hidden health problems of big cats

CT scans given to a tiger, a cheetah and a leopard have delivered vital answers to their "unexplained and persistent mobility issues".

Amur tiger Luca, mainland clouded leopard Django and cheetah Mo had the scans at The Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden, Kent, in October.

The sanctuary said the scans had provided invaluable clarity, allowing keepers to refine treatment plans and make informed decisions that would help safeguard the animals' long-term welfare.

"While some findings require ongoing management, the CT scan has delivered exactly what keepers at The Big Cat Sanctuary had hoped for: answers," said a spokesperson.

Django's scan revealed the 10 year old had an abdominal mass.

Following an ultrasound an additional mass on his right testicle was spotted and early signs indicate this could be a tumour.

The sanctuary said that as the mass was detected early, further analysis would determine the course of treatment, to give Django the strongest possible outcome.

Four-year-old Luca's scan was to investigate persistent stiffness in his legs as well as lameness in his right foreleg.

The results showed minor elbow changes consistent with normal ossification and a narrowing of joint space in the caudal spine, which the sanctuary is unusual for his age.

It said the tiger's care plan had now been changed to prioritise joint support.

Mo, the cheatah, was scanned to assess chronic intermittent lameness in his left forelimb.

The sanctuary said the imaging confirmed significant osteoarthritis in his right shoulder and tendon inflammation in his left shoulder.

It added that while surgery was not necessary, the scan had allowed the team to implement a structured long-term pain relief plan to manage discomfort and maintain mobility.

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