Three of the wildcats, including an incredibly rare Asian golden cat called Frank, a Eurasian Lynx called Rhys and a fishing cat called Boson, are settling into a new life at The Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent after they were brought there in January 2025.
The rehoming followed a major welfare case, during which inspectors raised serious concerns about the lack of care the animals were receiving at the Cat Survival Trust in Hertfordshire.
Following a three-week trial at St Albans Crown Court last year, the founder of the Cat Survival Trust was banned in January from keeping animals for a minimum of five years. The owners were convicted of multiple animal welfare offences, the site was closed, and all 28 big cats were ordered to be rehomed.
David Martin, Group Director of Animal Welfare at IVC Evidensia, was called upon by the Crown Prosecution Service to provide expert veterinary evidence for the courts.
“This is definitely up there with the most unusual cases I've worked on,” he said. “I’ve never dealt with so many exotic animals in one case. Their basic husbandry was really poor, there was inadequate nutrition, and they were lacking in basic veterinary care which led to high mortality rates.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to now see them thriving in properly managed environments. Their health has improved significantly, and they’re finally receiving the care they deserve. We’re so proud our welfare team could play a part in helping rehome these beautiful animals.”
At The Big Cat Sanctuary, the three rescued cats are settling well into their new environment. The sanctuary is meeting their complex needs with spacious enclosures, dedicated care, and species-appropriate enrichment designed to allow the animals to express natural behaviours.
Cameron Whitnall, conservationist, wildlife expert and Managing Director of The Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent said:
“These animals have been through a lot but watching them adjust to their new home and form bonds with their carers has been amazing. This rescue brought together the very best of the wildlife community with all of us coming together for one common cause: the wellbeing of these incredible animals. We’re thrilled that the cats could be rehomed to places where they can flourish.”
The case highlights the vital importance of the veterinary profession’s role in safeguarding animal welfare, regardless of species. David Martin added:
“Our job is to support clinical teams on the ground wherever concerns arise - whether it’s an African lion or a hamster. We first need to support owners who need our help, but we also have a duty to report when the support is not being effective. The IVC Evidensia welfare team is there for our colleagues and the animals when they need us most.”
The successful rehabilitation of the rescued cats offers a hopeful story for the future, with welfare and quality of life firmly at the centre of their new lives.
The group of cats include pumas, servals and an Amur leopard, which is one of the most endangered big cats in the world.
Teams at Hertfordshire Zoo and its sister site The Big Cat Sanctuary in Ashford, Kent, cared for the 28 rescued cats while attempts were made to find them new homes. Twenty-three of the cats were given new permanent new homes and sadly five were euthanised due to poor health .
The IVC Evidensia welfare team is available to provide advice to any veterinary practice across the UK via its non-accidental injury line. To contact email [email protected] or [email protected].
5. Contributed
David Martin, Group Director of Animal Welfare at IVC Evidensia Photo: Submitted