Source: Radio New Zealand
Indah, an Asian fishing cat at Hamilton Zoo, was euthanised at the age of 13. HAMILTON ZOO / SUPPLIED
Hamilton Zoo has announced the death of one of its Asian fishing cats, Indah.
Indah was 13-years-old and had been living with arthritis for some time prior to being euthanised on Tuesday morning, the zoo said in a social media post.
In the last few weeks of Indah’s life the zoo had been sharing updates on adjustments that were being made to her medication in the hopes of keeping her comfortable.
Despite this, the zoo said her condition did not improve.
“It became clear that her mobility challenges were impacting her comfort and quality of life.
“After exhausting all medical options available to us, we determined that the kindest and most appropriate course of action was to prevent further discomfort or distress.
“Indah was humanely euthanised this morning surrounded by her keepers who knew her best. Her passing was peaceful and dignified.”
The zoo said the final decision was a hard one but her actions and behaviour over the past couple of weeks had told them it was time.
“We are deeply grateful for the care, understanding and support shown by our community during this difficult time.
“Indah will be greatly missed.”
Fishing cats were an endangered species and according to the zoo’s website, typically lived for between 10 to 12 years both in the wild and under human care.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
