
Many of our members and zoo patrons have followed the journey of our preemie cheetah youngsters (Cathryn, Willow, and Redd- the Zoo’s cheetah cubs born premature and raised with special attention from the Nursery and Cat Ambassador Staff). It has been such a proud and wonderful experience to share with everyone their growth, development and learning as Ambassador Cheetahs, and especially showing their blossoming running skills. Throughout the summer- the sisters, Willow and Cathryn, have been showing off their speedy sprints to the delight of our Cheetah Encounter visitors. However, we have had many inquiries about where brother Redd is in all the run-fun.

As many may remember, Redd had an orthopedic surgery in called a Femoral Head and Neck Osteotomy (FHO) surgery to correct a physical abnormality that he had in his back hip. Redd’s recovery included stretches, physical therapy, and slow reintroduction to exercise. While he was healing we had to be very cautious not to put too much stress on his recovering leg. Redd would still enjoy regular play time in a small yard with his siblings as well as lunge stick conditioning, but while his body was mending we were careful not to overexert his running capabilities. We were finally given the green light when Redd’s surgeon, Veterinarian Dr. Karl Maritato DVM, visited the Cat Ambassador in early July for a 6 month check-in. Dr. Maritato, along with CZBG Veterinarian Dr. Jenny Nollman, shared that they were pleased with Redd’s progress and were comfortable moving gradually forward with Redd joining the ranks of our running cheetahs!

Redd’s first runs definitely weren’t the dazzling dashes that our visiting crowds love to see. Knowing they would be short and most likely awkward jogs rather than full speed runs, we didn’t want to unveil Redd’s first few times chasing the lure system during Encounter hours. Cat Ambassador Staff prepared one afternoon in late July to introduce Redd to the moving lure and system set up in our show yard. As expected, it was anticlimactic! Redd was taken by surprise when the fuzzy dog toy (the lure he was supposed to chase) began creeping through the grass. Not wanting a reluctant-to-run cheetah, we changed the lure to a familiar toy and he happily (and quickly) trotted behind it!
As Redd continues to be more confident in his abilities, we will facilitate more opportunities for him. Since Redd has had FHO surgery we will be extra cautious with his progress, taking it slowly to allow his body to adjust to running. It will be many more runs before Redd catches up to his siblings speed and is ready to debut in the Cheetah Encounter. But, he has proven that there is nothing that will stand in his way! Full speed ahead, Redd!
Redd the cheetah good luck. Hope you make it to be a great runner like your Mom was.Soon you will be running in the cheetah run.
Such a beautiful cheetah……he and Cathryn look so much alike it is difficult to tell them apart. Even in the nursery Redd had a determined spirit, and before his name became public I called him Will because of his will to survive. If it is determined that he can’t or shouldn’t run in the show, I hope you will allow him to be a part of it in some way. We all love to see him and have missed him.
Remember Redd, one step at a time. We don’t want you messing up your surgery. Your day will come soon enough!
Looks like Redd. Is doing great the cats are gorgeous. Thank you for your care.
Looks like Redd. Is doing great the cats are gorgeous. Thank you for your care.
Good job y’all !!
All three cubs have come such a long way since birth, thanks to the amazing and tireless efforts of you and the cheetah staff. I’m so proud of all the cheetahs and all of you (all ya all, haha)!
I wish I could give you a big old hug Redd. You are doing great. Don’t let your sisters tease you. Soon you will be chasing them too
Wonderful news that Redd is healthy, happy, and able to run. Redd is such an inspiration to me because he is overcoming his challenges. If he wants to run, I hope that he’s a fast runner, but for the sake of his fans, many are happy that he is able to walk and play and meet people.
Redd’s story reminds me of the stories of Fiona, and Chira, the Malayan tiger, and Dale, the takin, and the many other wonderful creatures who have overcome health issues thanks to the caring people at the Cincinnati Zoo. I like to hear their stories of survival, and I’m thankful that the Zoo provides a sanctuary where these animals can run and play in the sunshine. These beautiful animals would have died if they lived in the wild in their native habitats. The Cincinnati Zoo is wonderful in providing a safe, comfortable sanctuary for these beautiful animals.