A Tender Tiger's Tale

Tiger Cubs at EFRC

The Exotic Feline Rescue Center (EFRC) is a living saga of abandoned big cats and the heroics of those dedicated people who nurture them.  Tora, a beautiful 15 year old tiger, is part of this rich and inspiring story.  Tora’s mother was one of ten doomed circus cats rescued by the Center late in 1997.  In early 1998, Tora was born at the Center and grew into a happy, gentle resident.  His caretakers describe him as “Sweet”, “Gentle”, and “Liking attention”.  The dedication to these big cats is very real and every consideration is made for their care, so it was no surprise when Dr. Fred Froderman called in help to remove a large tumor from Tora’s intestines.   

Appropriately described as a "Gentle Giant", Tora is being prepped for surgery.  Dr. Forderman is on the left. 

Dr. Froderman is the Rescue Center’s lead veterinarian.  He is also one of Circle City Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Hospital's ER Clinicians.  When Tora became lethargic, Dr. Froderman performed tests that would reveal Tora was anemic and had a large mass in his intestines.  Knowing this could be a tricky procedure for a tiger Tora’s age, he called in another of Circle City’s talented team, Dr. Stephen Birchard, MS, DACVS, who specializes in these types of surgeries.  Together, the two of them removed a basketball sized tumor, a bone fragment that could not pass because of the tumor, and the damaged parts of Tora’s intestines.  We are happy to report that Tora is recovering well.  His caretakers are singing his praises and as each day passes his chance for a full recovery grows.    

Tora in his hospital cage. 

Tora is one of more than 200, and counting, exotic cats that currently live at EFRC.  They each have a unique and touching story to tell and we are all quite lucky to be graced by such a facility so close to home.  Do yourself a favor and visit their website, then visit them in person!  If you like to jog, check out their 5Kfundraising event coming next month.  This is a great time of year to take a walk on the wild side and visit some of the most regal animals on earth!