Collins’ Story
Collins Bobcat was originally in Tennessee as a private pet. He was declawed, which is a common practice when wild cats are kept as pets. After a period of time, Collins was deemed too aggressive and became too much for his owners to handle and was handed over to Genesis Wildlife Sanctuary, where he was housed with a female bobcat. Collins and his new roommate did not get along and it was quickly decided that he would have to be rehomed yet again. Genesis contacted Carolina Tiger Rescue and we were able to give Collins his forever home. When Collins arrived at Carolina Tiger Rescue, it was not long before it was realized that his attitude far exceeded his small cat body. Whereas most small cats will run and hide if they are approached, Collins was quick to react and would often try to attack those who came to close.
Collins’ Passing
On the morning of June 10, 2015, Collins was found lying in his enclosure looking as though he did not feel well. It was quickly decided that he would be taken to the emergency clinic in Raleigh, where our veterinarian works full time. Upon arrival in Raleigh, it became clear that Collins was in distress. He was put under anesthesia and a full work up was done. The first thing we noticed was that his temperature was very low. That was our first indication that he was in shock from whatever was ailing him. He was immediately started on IV fluids and we took blood samples and X-rays.
X-rays showed that his stomach was still full from what he ate on Monday, June 8. That caused some concern about either a blockage or possibly ileus (the intestines stop moving and food cannot pass). The bloodwork came back and confirmed our fear that he was in kidney failure. It is believed that he most likely got dehydrated (either from a partial blockage on his stomach or the rather rapid rise in temperature this spring) and it pushed his kidneys into failure. The treatment would have been subQ fluids multiple times per week. Unfortunately, with Collins’ disposition, we would not be able to do fluids without greatly stressing him and putting him and the keepers at risk and we made the very hard decision to proceed with euthanasia.
Anyone who knew Collins would know that he simply wouldn’t have put up with all of that manhandling. He was a straight shooter and didn’t take any disrespect from anyone. While he was not fond of your treat stick, he did love to get treats! As one of the first animals on the tour route, he was happy to welcome visitors. He was a very talkative guy and is greatly missed.
