In an unusual pairing, Cameron, the maneless lion, and Zabu, a white tiger, have become an inseparable couple at Big Cat Rescue in Florida. Their heartwarming journey began with a harrowing escape from a roadside zoo in New England.
Born in 2000, Cameron and Zabu were destined to breed ligers, a lion-tiger hybrid. However, in 2004, they were rescued and brought to the sanctuary, where they were finally safe from exploitation.
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Cameron was severely underweight then, while Zabu, a Siberian-Bengal mix, had a genetic flaw causing a shortened upper lip and exposing her teeth.
The rescue team recognized their strong bond and created a spacious natural enclosure for the two to share. Cameron underwent a vasectomy to prevent breeding, but as Zabu continued to go into heat, he became possessive and aggressive.
To mitigate this, Zabu was spayed, which worked temporarily until Cameron’s behavior resurfaced.
To address Cameron’s testosterone-driven aggression, the rescue team had to choose to separate the couple or neuter Cameron.
They chose the latter, losing Cameron’s mane but allowing him to remain with his beloved Zabu.
The energetic Zabu playfully pesters the sleepy Cameron, who reciprocates with loving licks, cuddles, and nuzzles.
Their remarkable bond continues to flourish at the sanctuary, demonstrating the power of love across species.
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