Cedar – In Memory

In Memory ~ June 2014

Cedar the bobcat peacefully passed away in his sleep.  Though it was unexpected, we find comfort that he was able to pass on with dignity.  For many years of his life, he lived in a small, wired enclosure filled with debris and garbage.  We don’t know Cedar’s exact age, since he came from a seizure out of state. But much of his paperwork documents him to be 20 years old.

After arriving at TWS in 2009, he was shy and reserved. He’d spent time with several roommates, but generally kept to himself.  So, he was moved to a large free-roaming habitat where he could live as he wanted.

He was often found on his hammock where he enjoyed taking long and quiet cat naps.  He loved meal time and would always be waiting right up front for his caregivers.  Since he loved hammocks so much, we hung one high up in his feeding area for him, too.  It was great seeing him up there, peeking out from his hammock, keeping a close eye on everything, including the food cart.

His routine was the same the day and evening prior to his passing.  He ate well, soaked up the sun on his hammock and strolled through the tall grass. We were all saddened when he didn’t come out for morning rounds.

Seeing him curled up in his normal sleeping position was bitter sweet. He was gone, but he left in the most peaceful and dignified way possible. Initial results from the University of Minnesota show no distress and Cedar passed of natural causes.

Cedar, like every resident, is special to all of us.  His sponsor parents also mourn his loss, but are remembering him with a memorial plaque and commemorative brick.  His story and legacy will remind us that each animal deserves peace and dignity.  And because of you, Cedar was able to experience just that.

Good-bye Cedar.  You will be missed by all.