A lion cub born at Werribee Zoo has died, the zoo has announced.
The three week old cub passing away from kidney issues after the mother stopped producing maternal milk.
The zoo making the decision to euthanise the cub in order to prevent any further suffering.
“We’re heartbroken to announce that an African Lion cub has sadly died from kidney issues after its mother Asali unexpectedly stopped producing maternal milk,” Zoos Victoria said in a social media post.
“At three weeks old, the cub was observed showing signs of weakness and poor weight gain which prompted an emergency examination under anaesthesia at Werribee Open Range Zoo’s veterinary hospital.
“The labour and post-birth interactions were monitored remotely via 24-hour cameras, without disturbing the pair’s natural bonding process.”
Zoos explained that professional advice was to avoid becoming involved in the situation until it was absolutely necessary.
“Intervention was a last resort, made only when the cub’s health was at risk, as separating it from its mother carries a high risk of maternal rejection.
“The cub received extensive care, however there was no chance of recovery, leading the veterinary team to make the only compassionate and humane decision, to euthanise the extremely sick cub to prevent its suffering.”
The lion cub had not yet been named.
