Catty Shack - Fun and Educational for the Whole Family

Catty Shack is a non-profit wildlife sanctuary located in Jacksonville.  The sanctuary is known for it’s of providing a safe and nurturing environment for big cats and other exotic animals that have been rescued from bad situations.  Since 1994 Catty Shack has been rescuing a wide variety of animals including tigers, lions, leopards, cougars, bobcats, coatimundis, servals, horses, and foxes.

The sanctuary is home to over 40 big cats, many of which were surrendered by private owners or confiscated by authorities due to neglect or abuse. At Catty Shack Ranch, these majestic animals are provided with a loving environment where they can live out the rest of their days in comfort and dignity.

The mission of Catty Shack Ranch is (as stated on their website) to provide a safe, loving and forever home to endangered big cats and to educate the public about their plight in the wild and in captivity. Our primary focus is in the rescue of exotic animals from serious situations. Once an animal arrives at Catty Shack Ranch, they have a loving, forever home for life. We do not breed, trade, sell, or buy any of our residents. 

Catty Shack is spread over 12 acres of land and features spacious living quarters and habitats for the animals. The sanctuary’s staff includes Dr. Jennifer Altman and Dr. Heather Avery, veterinarians who ensure that the animals are well cared for and receive the necessary medical attention.

The sanctuary offers self guided tours for visitors, providing them with an opportunity to learn about the different species of big cats and other animals that reside there. The tours are educational, informative, and help raise awareness about the importance of animal conservation.  Staff is available throughout the complex to answer any questions visitors may have.  Private educational tours are provided for school groups throughout the year.

One of the main attractions of Catty Shack is the nightly feeding tours of the big cats. Visitors get to witness first-hand how these majestic animals hunt and feed while also maintaining a safe distance from them.

Catty Shack not only provides a safe haven for abandoned and abused big cats, but it also participates in conservation programs that aim to protect various species of animals. The sanctuary has partnered with various organizations all over the world to help rescue and rehabilitate big cats in need.

Catty Shack Ranch relies on donations and the support of volunteers to continue their important work. They offer a variety of ways for the public to get involved, including adoption programs, fundraising events, and volunteer opportunities.  Volunteers assist with various tasks around the sanctuary, including grounds maintenance, habitat building, and animal care.

Catty Shack is a fantastic wildlife sanctuary that is dedicated to providing a safe home for big cats and other exotic animals. The sanctuary not only offers a learning opportunity for visitors, but it’s also involved in conservation programs that aim to protect these beautiful creatures.

Catty Shack Ranch is located at 1860 Starratt Road in Jacksonville.  You can visit their website here.

 Further Suggested Reading (ad):

Through Animals' Eyes, Again: Stories of Wildlife Rescue

Bad Guys, Bullets, and Boat Chases: True Stories of Florida Game Wardens


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