Brookfield Zoo announced that one of its Amur tigers, Malena, was humanely euthanized this week due to life-threatening health issues.
Animal care specialists noticed changes in Malena’s appetite and energy levels and quickly called veterinary experts to evaluate her health. During an examination, veterinarians found that her kidneys were not functioning properly, which “led to life-threatening heart arrhythmias,” zoo officials said.
Because of the severity of her condition, the veterinarian made the decision to humanely euthanize Malena, zoo officials said.
“Preliminary necropsy results suggest that a cancerous process was preventing Malena’s kidneys from functioning properly,” the zoo said in a statement Friday.
Malena joined the zoo in 2020 and “quickly captured the hearts of guests and staff alike,” the zoo said. She was the first Amur tiger in North America to successfully undergo a hip replacement. She formed a special bond with her caregivers and was known for her calm strength and majestic presence. One of the things Malena’s animal care team will miss the most about her is being greeted by her “singing” and chuffing each morning, as well as her adoration for her beds. Relatably, they recall that she wasn’t much of a “morning cat.”
“Malena’s loss is deeply felt by all of us: our staff, volunteers, and the many guests who were moved by her quiet grace and beauty. She truly left a lasting mark on everyone lucky enough to see her,” the zoo said.
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