Tiger Sisters Euthanized At Oakland Zoo

OAKLAND, CA — The Oakland Zoo euthanized two tigers on Tuesday, sisters Molly and Milou, because of poor health.

The tigers had been at Oakland Zoo since 2011. Both were "struggling with severely declining health in their old age, including advanced kidney disease and debilitating arthritis," the zoo said.

Milou also had inoperable cancer that had spread.

"Together, our animal care and veterinary staff made the extremely difficult decision to end their suffering and euthanize both tigers."

The sisters were born into the exotic pet industry. The zoo reports that they were inbred by private owners in Texas, and then taken prematurely from their mother to be used for "photo ops" in which customers were charged money to take pictures with the tiger kittens.

Once the tigers were too big to handle and no longer profitable, their owners no longer wanted them, along with two more sisters, Ginger and Grace. All four were neglected.

The tigers were rescued by the USDA and were set to be euthanized.

That's when the Oakland Zoo stepped in and gave all four tigers a home.

The zoo has used them as ambassadors to spread the word about the “tiger petting” exotic pet industry.

"We are heartbroken to lose these two magnificent beings, but we are grateful we were able to give them a forever home for so many years. They were loved and we will miss them deeply. They will always hold a special place in all of our hearts."

Molly and Milou were 16-years-old. Ginger died in August. Grace died in 2019.