Lion triplets receive second vaccination against toxoplasmosis and cat flu

On Thursday, 4 February 2021, the three young lions received their second and last vaccination against toxoplasmosis and cat flu. The vet took the opportunity to weigh the cubs and preventively dewormed them with a white paste sprayed in their mouths.

The three females seem very healthy and are growing well. Thanks to a live camera in their nursery, we know that the animals are drinking well from their mother. The three cubs and their mother will soon be allowed to meet the other lions in the group. The Burgers' Zoo group counts eight lions: one adult male, two adult females, and five cubs (four females and one male).

The lion cubs received their medical treatment quickly and efficiently. Their mother was first moved to the adjoining separation pen with the help of a tender piece of meat, after which the experienced animal caretakers and veterinarian deftly grabbed the cubs by the scruff of their necks. The mother also picks up the cubs by the scruff of their neck when she wants to move them. Young lions already have a thick, supple skin, so they do not feel a thing. Despite their age and size (they are 9.5 weeks old now), the cubs can already defend themselves with their claws and teeth. This is only the second time the lions have been touched by humans, which explains why they try to bite the handlers like real wild animals in the video footage and photos. The triplets were born in the Safari at Burgers' Zoo on 26 November 2020.