A mobile CT scanner has revolutionised veterinary care at The Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden, Kent, providing life-saving diagnoses for several resident felines. Introduced in November, the human-grade device delivers high-resolution 3D imaging directly to the animals, avoiding stressful transport to specialised centres.
Three months on, the scanner has already yielded critical findings. Clouded leopard Django, aged 10, had an abdominal mass and testicular tumour detected early, potentially saving his life. Keepers can now act swiftly to ensure he remains part of the European Breeding Programme with a strong outlook.
Four-year-old tiger Luca was found to have a rare narrowing of the spine, an unusual discovery for a young tiger. This diagnosis allows the team to adjust his care plan and inform the EAZA breeding programme. Meanwhile, cheetah Mo finally received answers for his intermittent lameness, revealing significant arthritis and tendon inflammation. While surgery is not needed, a structured long-term analgesia plan has been implemented.
A sanctuary spokesperson said: 'The results have provided our team with the vital clarity needed to safeguard the future of these incredible animals. The ability to access advanced diagnostics of this calibre represents a major step forward in sanctuary medicine.'
The scanner eliminates prolonged anaesthesia with faster scans, improving diagnostic accuracy in orthopaedics, neurology and oncology. The sanctuary describes it as 'a major step forward' that will prolong the lives of its cats.
