Welcome to Cat Tales Wildlife Center

Nestled in the scenic Inland Northwest just north of Spokane, Washington, Cat Tales Wildlife Center is a unique wildlife shelter dedicated to providing exceptional care and second chances for animals in need. Here’s what sets us apart:


More Than a Zoo: A Wildlife Shelter with a Mission

At Cat Tales, we’re not just about exhibits—we’re about exceptional care, inspiring education, and second chances. Every animal here has a unique story, and every story matters.


Young puma playing in the water

What We Do

We’re a wildlife shelter focused on:

  • Rescuing, Rehabilitating, and Providing Forever Homes: Offering safe, compassionate care for non-releasable exotic and wild animals.
  • Exceeding Standards of Care: Every animal here receives high-quality locally sourced meals, tailored enrichment, and constant access to outdoor spaces and private areas.
  • Educating and Inspiring Action: Through hands-on experiences, family-friendly educational programs, and immersive training, we make wildlife conservation accessible and meaningful for everyone.

What Makes Us Unique?

At Cat Tales, animals are more than exhibits—they’re family. Here’s how we prioritize their comfort, safety, and well-being:

  • Freedom of Choice: Animals can choose to be on exhibit or retreat to private “hide” spaces, respecting their natural instincts.
  • Year-Round Outdoor Access: Unlike traditional zoos, our animals are never confined to small indoor cages overnight.
  • Tailored Care: Every animal’s enrichment and care is customized based on their species, age, and health, ensuring they live fulfilling lives.

Our tigers don’t just roar—they chuffle. Our foxes are full of tricks, and our wolfdogs are always up for a howl. It’s a place where animals thrive, and visitors connect in meaningful ways.


Our Mission

Rescue. Care. Educate.
We’re a community dedicated to wildlife rescue, compassionate care, and education. Every animal here has a unique story, and every visitor plays a role in helping us share and celebrate these journeys.


Meet the Cat Tales Family

From our dedicated staff to passionate interns, hardworking volunteers, and enthusiastic students, our team is committed to providing top-notch care for every animal that calls Cat Tales home.

Together, we:

  • Build connections between people and animals through education and storytelling.
  • Foster empathy and inspire action to protect wildlife.

Who Lives Here?

Our residents come in all shapes and sizes, each with a story to tell:

Every animal you meet has a unique story, from rescue to rehabilitation, and we can’t wait for you to hear them.


A Legacy of Care and Impact

In the past five years, we’ve:

  • Provided forever homes for 38 animals in need.
  • Trained 23 full-time students through our immersive wildlife care programs.
  • Offered hands-on internships for 25+ college students in wildlife biology, veterinary medicine, and conservation.

Over the past 30 years, our journey includes:

  • Hundreds of animals rescued and cared for with expertise and compassion.
  • Thousands of individuals educated and inspired to protect wildlife.
  • A growing network of alumni working in world-class zoos, sanctuaries, and conservation organizations.

Looking Ahead

Our work is never done. As we continue to tackle the challenges of wildlife rescue and conservation, our dedicated team remains focused on:

  • Providing exceptional care to every animal in our shelter.
  • Training the next generation of wildlife professionals.
  • Inspiring visitors to connect with wildlife and take action to protect it.

Be Part of the Story

Every animal we rescue and every student we train carries forward our mission of compassionate care, education, and wildlife stewardship.

Join us in making a difference—explore our mission, visit our shelter, or support our work today. Together, we can create a brighter future for wildlife.