The Topeka Zoo is mourning the loss of Leopold, one of its cheetahs, after an unexpected spinal injury forced the difficult decision to euthanize him, according to a social media post from the zoo.
Zoo officials shared the news in a Sept. 24 Facebook post, noting that animal care staff first observed Leopold walking tenderly on his hind legs on Sept. 18. Despite rest and treatment, his condition worsened, leading to further testing. A CT scan at Topeka ER revealed a fractured vertebra that would have required corrective surgery.
Leopold was transferred to a specialty veterinary center for additional imaging and treatment. However, an MRI and subsequent surgical evaluation revealed the damage was too severe to repair. “The surgical team discovered at that time that the damage to his spine could not be repaired, and the humane decision was made to euthanize him,” the zoo said.
The exact cause of the injury remains unclear. Surveillance footage showed Leopold appearing alert and excited by outside activity in his habitat the day before staff noticed his condition. He was later observed walking away with visible discomfort. The zoo believes he may have fallen or landed improperly, but obstructions in the video prevented confirmation of the exact incident.
Zoo staff and visitors alike are grieving the loss. “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, the zoo’s animal care director.
The zoo has adjusted Leopold’s enclosure to reduce the risk of similar accidents in the future and has shifted its focus to supporting Roosevelt, Leopold’s brother.