Gepard Cubs in Norwegian Zoo Stricken by Serious Virus
In a worrying development, a male cub at a Norwegian zoo has fallen seriously ill due to a virus that poses no threat to humans but can cause severe disease in cats, particularly cheetahs. Veterinarian Rolf Arne Ølberg at the zoo confirmed this to NRK.
The young cub, who was already showing signs of illness, developed sores on its body and in its mouth, leading to a refusal to drink milk. It had to be admitted to the intensive care unit. While the zoo is familiar with this virus, it’s the first time they’ve encountered it in their animals.
Thankfully, the other three cubs appear to be faring well. Ølberg reports that they are active, drinking milk, and gaining weight, indicating a positive outlook.
Born on October 16, the cubs were the first offspring of Cannelle, a five-year-old female cheetah who joined the zoo in April 2021 from a park in France. The birth was streamed live, drawing widespread interest.
The cheetahs at the zoo are part of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) conservation program, contributing to the preservation of these magnificent cats.
