INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Zoo announced Zuri, a 20-year-old female lion, was euthanized Thursday at the zoo after her health declined due to kidney disease.
Veterinary staff and keepers decided to euthanize her humanly after she began showing signs of pain that medical treatments could not alleviate. Zoo officials noted that kidney disease happens frequently in aging cats, both domestic and wild.
Zuri was born in 2006 at the Denver Zoo and arrived at the Indianapolis Zoo in 2007. At 20 years old, she lived well beyond the 16.9-year average lifespan for lions in captivity.
Known for what staff called a “big, fierce personality,” Zuri was the mother of three cubs. Her daughter, Sukari, remains at the zoo. Keepers are currently monitoring Sukari’s needs.
On Monday, the zoo lost its accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums after its application was not approved during the latest accreditation cycle.
“It has been a tough week for the Indianapolis Zoo, and we appreciate our supporters for standing by us while we navigate this transition,” the zoo said in a statement Thursday. “Please continue to send your support to our keepers as they grieve the loss of an icon at the Zoo.”
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