We are sad to announce that Whipsnade Zoo’s geriatric male cheetah, Oscar, has had to be euthanised (Wednesday 1st April) due to age-related health concerns.
In zoos, cheetahs can, on average, live to between 12 and 15 years old. At almost 16 years of age, Oscar had surpassed usual life expectations for his species, but he was experiencing age-related health issues including muscle wasting and arthritis. He also had significant weakness in his hind legs, which was impacting his ability to walk properly.
Despite treating Oscar with pain medication and joint supplements, his keepers and vets noticed that over the past few weeks his ability to walk was deteriorating and they could see that he was reluctant to place weight on his hind legs. To prevent any discomfort, or his condition escalating to the point where he could no longer stand, the kindest outcome for Oscar was to be put to sleep.
Whipsnade Zoo is still home to two female cheetahs, four-year-old sisters Amira and Zara.
Although Oscar had only been at Whipsnade Zoo for a short amount of time, having arrived in July 2025, he quickly won over those who cared for him, and will be missed.