SHELTON, Wash. – A non-profit animal shelter in Shelton, Washington is grappling with a devastating bird flu outbreak that killed 20 of its big cats last week, including a Bengal tiger and other exotic felines.
On Dec. 20, the Wild Felid Advocacy Center of Washington announced on social media that the highly pathogenic avian influenza, more commonly known as the bird flu, had affected more than half of its wild cats. The confirmation of the bird flu prompted the center to close its doors to the public to safely quarantine the remaining animals.
The infection spreads primarily through respiratory secretions and bird-to-bird contact. According to the shelter, it can also be contracted by carnivorous mammals when they ingest infected birds or other contaminated materials. Initial symptoms are subtle but then progress rapidly into pneumonia-like conditions that can lead to death in a matter of 24 hours.
A Bengal tiger named Tabbi was among those lost to a bird flu outbreak at Wild Felid Advocacy Center of Washington. (Via Karen D. on Yelp)
“As an animal sanctuary, we are equipped to manage outbreaks through: Strict biosecurity measures, quarantining affected animals, and comprehensive disinfection protocols,” the Wild Felid Advocacy Center of Washington wrote on Facebook. “Despite these efforts, we have suffered significant losses among our beloved residents.”
Mouse the Geoffroy’s Cat. (Via Karen D. on Yelp)
The sanctuary listed the animals that died from the bird flu outbreak:
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1 Amur/Bengal tiger named Tabbi
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4 cougars named Hooligan, Holly, Harley and Hannah Wyoming
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1 African caracal named Crackle
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2 Canadian lynx named Chickie and P’uch’ub
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1 Geoffroy cat named Mouse
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1 Bengal cat named Pebbles
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1 Eurasian lynx named Thumper
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4 bobcats named Digger, Willie-Bob, Ruffian and Tank
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5 African servals named Nile, Percival, Nefertiti, Blondie and Shasta
The sanctuary is now collaborating with federal and state animal health authorities, as well as Mason County health officials, to contain the virus and protect the remaining animals. Expert private veterinarians are overseeing treatment and prevention strategies, while strict biosecurity measures and comprehensive disinfection protocols are being implemented.
“This tragedy has deeply affected our team, and we are all grieving the loss of these incredible animals,” the center wrote. “Now, we turn to the community for support as we focus on the care and recovery of our surviving felids. The mounting medical costs, even at discounted rates, have placed a significant financial strain on our sanctuary.”
Anyone who would like to make a donation to support the ongoing care of the shelter’s animals can contribute using PayPal on its website.
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