Founder Debbie Wyche reflects on 35 years of wildlife rescue and the next generation of leadership guiding the sanctuary forward. As Cat Tales Wildlife Center celebrates its 35th year, Iāve found myself reflecting on the journey that brought us hereāand the next chapter that lies ahead for both the sanctuary and for me. When you…
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Wildlife Sponsorship Program
We are thrilled to introduce you to the Wildlife Sponsorship Program at Cat Tales! This program offers a unique opportunity for compassionate individuals like you to make a lasting impact on the lives of our wildlife residents. Adopting or sponsoring an animal will directly contribute to their care and well-being. As a token of our…
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From Master Plan Dreams to Feasibility Reality:
We Need Your Expertise Two years ago, a conceptual master plan for Cat Tales captured community imagination and generated significant media attention. TheĀ Journal of BusinessĀ covered it. News outlets featured it. Supporters got excited about the possibilities. And we’ve been fielding questions ever since: Are you relocating? When? Where? Here’s the reality check: That master plan, while…
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š¾ What It Really Costs to Care for Rescued Wildlife
When guests visit Cat Tales Wildlife Center, they often see tigers splashing in their pools, bobcats lounging in the sun, or bears enjoying a snack. What they donāt always see is the mountain of workāand the budgetāthat keeps those animals healthy and safe, every single day of the year. Running a wildlife rescue isnāt just…
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Behind the Scenes: How Wildlife Rehab Happens at Cat Tales
If youāve been following us lately, youāve likely heard the chatter about this springās adorable new arrivals: three baby raccoons brought to Cat Tales Wildlife Center for rehabilitation. But what you might not see is the world behind the scenesāthe quiet, round-the-clock work our team does to give animals like these little masked bandits the…
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Think Before You Rescue: A Spring Guide to Baby Wildlife
It happens every year: spring arrives, the world fills with new life, and soon our phones start ringingā“I found a baby animal. What should I do?” We love that so many people care about helping wildlife. But the truth is: not every baby animal you find needs rescuing. In fact, sometimes the kindest thing you…
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Meet Taz: Our New Carpathian Lynx Resident
Tazās Story Taz, a 2-year-old Carpathian Lynx, is the newest resident at Cat Tales Wildlife Center. He was purchased as a kitten in Tennessee and raised in a private home. As Taz matured, his natural behaviors became increasingly difficult for his owner to manage safely. The owner, facing family obligations that limited the time and…
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When a Tiger Needs a Manicure: Nalinās Medical Journey
Not All Medical Moments Are Streamed –In a world of streaming content, you will find some zoos and wildlife rescues included in the viewing lineup. You may even see them sharing medical procedures for the animals in their care. We arenāt streaming but thought you might be curious how we handle big cat veterinary care…
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Changing Seasons Through the Eyes of a Zookeeper
A New Appreciation for Seasonal Challenges I grew up in Spokane and have enjoyed the beauty that each season brings to our region. I am also accustomed to the seasonal challenges, from springtime allergies to snow shoveling and driving in slush. It took moving onsite at Cat Tales and experiencing the seasons, and all the…
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The Little Wildlife Rescue That Could
Cat Tales Wildlife Center in Spokane, Washington, is not your typical zoo. Founded in 1990, this small nonprofit serves as a sanctuary for over 100 non-releasable animals, including lions, tigers, bobcats, cougars, and more. Known as the closest thing to a zoo in the inland Northwest, Cat Tales provides lifelong care to wildlife that has been rescued from euthanasia, abandonment, or private owners. Operated with limited staff and resources, the center thrives on the dedication of volunteers, students, and community support, offering educational programs and hands-on experience for aspiring zookeepers. Through determination and compassion, Cat Tales continues to make a lasting impact on both animals and people.
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It’s Feeding Time
Nutritious Animal Diets Our sanctuary is home to a variety of species, each with its own unique dietary needs. Here’s a glimpse into the types of food we prepare: Carnivores: Animals like our tigers and bobcats enjoy a meat-rich diet. Feast Components & Routine Serving Proportions & Adjustments On average, every big cat is served…
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