Support the cats of EFBC!

Hi there. My name is Leslie and I was a volunteer zookeeper and docent at EFBC's Feline Conservation Center for 27 years.

For 40 years, the Cathouse has been open to the public. Sadly, rising costs and recovering from the pandemic caused unbearable financial issues and they have had to close their doors permanently.

Over the next several weeks, I and several other long-time volunteers are assisting the EFBC Board with the closure.

A total of 26 cats were moved on Feb. 8. The majority of them were the big cats and many were on public display. After their move, the difficult decision was made by the board to permanently close. The remaining cats - most of them small - will be sent to other facilities soon.

Although the facility is closed, donations are desperately needed to continue keeping the lights on, making payroll and caring for the remaining 29 cats by the zookeeper staff. The facility is in arrears and any assistance is appreciated.

I know this closure was shocking and many people have questions. I don't know why the financial burdens the facility was facing were not made public. Although I left in 2017, I still supported the facility from time to time and gave to the Go Fund Me set up during the pandemic. I understand any anger or frustration you may have, but I ask that you channel that into helping the cats that remain until they can be sent to other facilities.

Contrary to some social media posts, we are not euthanizing all the cats! However, some cats are seniors with serious health issues and the experienced vet team is making assessments to determine where they can continue to be cared for. We all want to do what's best for the cats.

EFBC has been a wonderful resource and place to visit for the community. We have worked in captive breeding programs from around the world. I personally traveled with a lion to Vietnam and brought back Minh and My-Lai the fishing cats. I cherish my memories and experiences. It's been a privilege to volunteer and work with these cats, past and present. And right now, I just want to do what's right for the cats who remain, like Zeya and Koshka. I also know that closure is the only way out of this, unfortunately.

(The photo above is of Zeya the Amur leopard from Saturday, Feb. 11.)

Please consider making a donation. All the money raised will go to EFBC to help. Please note: donations are not necessarily tax deductible, so please assume it is not deductible if you are able to donate.

Thank you!