Topeka Zoo’s cheetah has been put down

Context: the attached video aired on June 21.

TOPEKA (KSNT) – The Topeka Zo announced on Sept. 24 that one of their cheetah’s, Leopold, has severe spinal damage that could not be corrected, and has since been put down.

Staff at the Topeka Zoo noticed on Sept. 18 that the cheetah was walking with tenderness around in hind legs, and after a few days of rest and treatment, his condition worsened. After a CT scan on Sunday, it was revealed that Leopold has a fractured vertebra, which required corrective surgery.

The BluePearl Specialty & Emergency Vet Hospital in Overland Park discovered during his surgery that the damage could not be repaired. They made the humane decision to put the cheetah down.

“Losing Leopold is tragic and he will be deeply missed. He was a neat cat who very quickly stole the hearts of many,” said Wrylie Guffey, Animal Care Director. “Our focus has now turned to supporting his brother Roosevelt.”

The Topeka Zoo believes that Leopold sustained his injury while inside his enclosure on Wednesday. He is survived by littermate Roosevelt, who arrived with him earlier this summer.

For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.