Pueblo Zoo mourns loss of Pallas cat, welcomes newcomers
Mar 22, 2025
(PUEBLO, Colo.) — The Pueblo Zoo announced the unexpected passing of their female Pallas cat, Olive on Wednesday, March 19, before later welcoming two new animals to the zoo.
According to the Pueblo Zoo, a thorough necropsy and extensive testing were done on Olive after she died, and it was det
ermined that she had passed from a common parasitic disease called Toxoplasmosis. The disease infects nearly all warm-blooded animals, and in certain cases can become fatal.
Courtesy: Pueblo Zoo
According to the zoo, a routine health screening and preventative care, including Toxoplasma testing, was performed on Olive just months before her passing, and her results were normal. Her mate, TaiChi, is now undergoing prophylactic treatment for the disease and he has shown no symptoms so far. Pueblo Zoo said that Olive will be greatly missed.
On a more positive note, the zoo announced on Thursday, March 20, that two new animals have arrived at Pueblo Zoo's farm exhibit, Pioneer Ranch.
In February, the zoo welcomed Mrembo, a one-year-old male Watusi cow, an African species known for magnificent horns. His name means "beautiful" in Swahili, and it perfectly captures his striking appearance. Mrembo is currently in routine quarantine before being introduced to Chilly Jane and Patty, his future exhibit-mates, but he is currently visible to the public.
Courtesy: Pueblo Zoo
"Mrembo's arrival represents our continued commitment to showcasing diverse cattle breeds and agricultural education," said Brett Mills, Zoo Associate Director of Marketing & Communications. "His distinctive horns and spunky demeanor will make him an instant guest favorite.
Courtesy: Pueblo Zoo
The zoo is preparing to introduce 10-month-old Lorraine, a miniature donkey who will join the farm family once she completes routine quarantine procedures. With her adorable looks, she's expected to be a hit with visitors of all ages when she makes her debut in the coming weeks. ...read more read less