He was a cool cat and well-liked by visitors to a Jacksonville wildlife sanctuary north of town.
Catty Shack Ranch is mourning the loss of one of its big cats, Freddy, who despite a veterinarian’s efforts, has died of old age.
Staff and volunteers said goodbye to the 17-year-old lion, born with a neurological birth defect.
“King Freddy,” as visitors to the sanctuary called him, wobbled a little and took extra time getting up or down from his platform. But his disability was part of what made him special, said Executive Director Curt LoGiudice.
“He didn’t know he had a disability and lived his best life every day,” the Catty Shack Ranch founder said.
Catty Shack is known for providing a peaceful environment and medical care for rescued lions and tigers.
Donations in honor of Freddy can be made at CattyShack.org/donate.
