Jacksonville, FL — Two exotic cats are being treated at Jacksonville’s Catty Shack Ranch, after suffering the effects of malnutrition.
Catty Shack Ranch says Merlin and Nimueh were purchased from a breeder by a woman who had taken all of the proper steps, including acquiring an exotic animal license. They say the woman had been told the Serval wild cats had been domesticated, but they were not. When Merlin broke three of his legs after a jump, the woman transferred ownership of the wild cats to Catty Shack Ranch.
Catty Shack says both wild cats are suffering brittle bones, resulting from malnutrition. Merlin had to have surgery to repair his legs. Catty Shack says the surgery cost more than $10,000, which is covered by donations and admission fees.
Nimueh also has brittle bones, so she is receiving the proper diet and medication, and being kept in a large air conditioned space while she grows stronger.
Merlin and Nimueh will continue treatment for a few weeks, before being available for the public to see. Catty Shack has plenty of other animals on display, though. They offer day tours every Thursday and Sunday from 1PM-4PM; night feedings every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 6PM-8:30PM; and enrichment tours a few Sundays a month from 1PM-4PM.