The Louisville Zoo recently said goodbye to Sumatran tiger Leela who was humanely euthanized on April 12-2024 after a battle with kidney failure and age-related musculoskeletal disease that affected her mobility ¹. Leela was nearly 20 years old and was born at the Louisville Zoo on April 17, 2004, as part of a trio of cubs that included siblings Mohan and Jai.
The Louisville Zoo is mourning the loss of Kami Sambal, a Sumatran tiger who passed away suddenly, just a month after the birth of his newborn cub. Despite receiving intensive care, pain management, and medication from zoo medical staff, Kami’s health rapidly declined due to kidney failure and anemia, which may be indicative of lymphoma, a common cancer in older tigers. This unexpected loss is a sad turn of events, especially coming so soon after the joyful arrival of his cub.
The Louisville Zoo made the heart-wrenching decision to euthanize Kami Sambal, a beloved Sumatran tiger, after medical staff determined that his quality of life had deteriorated significantly. Despite efforts to manage his pain and discomfort, Kami’s condition had progressed to a point where euthanasia was the most compassionate option.
Zoo Director Dan Maloney expressed his sadness over the loss, acknowledging the strong bond between the zoo staff and the animals in their care. He emphasized that the zoo’s primary concern is always the well-being and welfare of the animals, and that difficult decisions like this are made with their best interests at heart.
Maloney also highlighted Kami’s enduring legacy, which includes his newborn cub, who will continue to thrive and grow under the zoo’s care. Additionally, Kami played a vital role as an ambassador for his species, raising awareness about the critically endangered status of Sumatran tigers and the importance of conservation efforts.
The zoo’s decision to euthanize Kami was not taken lightly, but it was necessary to prevent further suffering and ensure that he did not experience any more pain or discomfort. The zoo will continue to celebrate Kami’s life and legacy, while also working tirelessly to protect and preserve his species for generations to come.
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