From Rescue to Forever Home: The Heart of Cat Tales
Nestled just north of Spokane, Cat Tales Wildlife Center is more than a zoo — it’s a sanctuary built on compassion, second chances, and lifelong care. Since 1991, we’ve provided safe, loving homes for wildlife that cannot return to the wild — whether rescued, surrendered, or retired. Each animal here carries a story of resilience, from tigers who once performed in shows to orphaned bobcats and curious raccoons who lost their mothers too soon.
Our mission is simple but powerful: Rescue. Care. Educate.
Every visit, every student, and every donation helps us protect those who depend on people for survival. At Cat Tales, guests witness extraordinary species up close, learn the realities of wildlife rescue, and see firsthand how ethical animal care changes lives — human and wild alike.
Through our Zookeeping & Wildlife Management Academy, we’re shaping the next generation of wildlife professionals — keepers, educators, and advocates — who will carry this mission forward. Whether you come to volunteer, study, donate, or simply be inspired, your presence helps us write the next chapter in the lives of animals who call Cat Tales home.
What Makes Cat Tales Unique
Cat Tales stands apart from traditional zoos and rescues because we combine forever sanctuary care with hands-on education.
Here, animals are treated as individuals with histories, personalities, and preferences — not exhibits.
Our Residents: Stories of Strength and Spirit
More than 30 animals call Cat Tales home — from mighty tigers and stealthy bobcats to clever raccoons, playful foxes, and gentle bears.
Each resident represents a story of survival and second chances.
- Oscar, our rescued black bear, reminds visitors of the delicate balance between humans and native wildlife.
- Tigger the Tiger arrived as a young cub and now enjoys his golden years with specialized senior care and heated dens.
- Ricky the Bobcat was orphaned in the wild, cross-eyed and non-releasable — today he thrives as an ambassador for wildlife rescue.
- Amala the Bobcat, once a pet, now demonstrates the power of positive training and patience.
Every resident has a story worth sharing — and every visit helps us continue providing comfort, nutrition, enrichment, and lifelong safety.
The Heart Behind the Mission
Founded by Debbie and Mike Wyche, Cat Tales grew from a small passion project into a recognized nonprofit wildlife rescue and teaching zoo.
For over three decades, Debbie has shared her knowledge of big cats and wildlife behavior with thousands of students and volunteers, passing on lessons learned from a lifetime of care.
Our team today includes dedicated staff, students, and volunteers who believe that ethical wildlife care is built on respect, patience, and consistency.
Together, they provide 24/7 care — preparing meals, monitoring health, building enrichment, and maintaining safe, enriching habitats year-round.
“You can’t fake care — it’s a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week commitment.”
Debbie Wyche, Founder & Director of Wildlife Education
Education & Future Generations
At Cat Tales, education is at the core of everything we do.
Through the Zookeeping & Wildlife Management Certification Program, students gain real-world experience caring for exotic and native species, learning animal behavior, husbandry, enrichment, and conservation principles from seasoned professionals.
We also offer community education programs, including field trips, guided tours, workshops, and continuing education for professionals.
These programs inspire curiosity, teach respect for wildlife, and prepare students for careers in zoos, sanctuaries, and conservation organizations around the world.
Legacy of Care & Impact
Since our founding, Cat Tales has:
Every success story begins with compassion — and continues through your support.
Looking Ahead
Wildlife care never stands still. As we look to the future, Cat Tales is committed to expanding habitats, improving senior animal care, and strengthening our emergency preparedness.
We’re also developing innovative education initiatives that combine science, empathy, and technology to connect more people with the natural world.
Your support helps ensure that the animals who call Cat Tales home — and those yet to arrive — will always receive the love, safety, and respect they deserve.