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Big Cat Sanctuary Uses On-Site Mobile CT Scans to Probe Mobility Issues in Tiger, Cheetah and Clouded Leopard

The scan images are now with specialist veterinary radiographers, who are expected to report findings in about two weeks.

Overview

  • The scans were performed Monday at the Kent sanctuary using a high-resolution mobile CT unit brought on site.
  • Each cat was sedated in its enclosure by a vet from the International Zoo Veterinary Group before being moved to the scanner.
  • The patients were Luca, a four-year-old Amur tiger; Django, a ten-year-old mainland clouded leopard; and Mo, a four-year-old Southern African cheetah.
  • After imaging, the animals were returned to their habitats for anaesthetic reversal and close monitoring as they recovered.
  • Sanctuary curator Briony Smith cited a collaborative effort involving specialist vets Elliot Simpson-Brown and Valerie Freeman and diagnostics provider Burgess Diagnostics to prioritise welfare.