A Chattanooga, Tenn., family is heartbroken after making the difficult decision to rehome their beloved serval, Miz Zuri, because of an inability to meet her unique needs despite their best efforts. The almost 2-year-old serval, affectionately known as Zuri, has been a cherished family member, but her specialized care requirements have proved too challenging to manage within their household.

The family, which includes twin 11-year-old daughters and two parents working demanding jobs, has tirelessly attempted to create a suitable living environment for Zuri. Despite transforming a bedroom into her personal sanctuary and providing a specialized diet and medical care, they have struggled with Zuri’s territorial behaviors, which have made it increasingly difficult to maintain harmony in their home.

“Our hearts are broken over this decision, but we know it’s the best thing for Zuri,” said the family. “We have loved and cared for her deeply, but we realize she needs a more suitable environment that we just can’t provide. We’re grateful for the time we’ve had with her and want to ensure she goes to a place where she can thrive.”

Zuri, who has been spayed and microchipped and is up to date on all vaccinations, has a playful and affectionate nature, especially with the family’s daughters. However, her instinctual behaviors as a wild animal, including marking territory and needing ample space to roam, have created challenges the family can no longer manage.

The family has partnered with Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Eureka Springs, an accredited wild cat sanctuary, to provide Zuri with the specialized care she needs. Turpentine Creek stands ready to offer Zuri a safe, spacious and enriched environment where she can fully express her natural behaviors while receiving the expert care she requires.

“There is currently a small exotic cat crisis; we are being bombarded with calls from people who are fooled by breeders who say that African small cats make great pets, but in reality, they do not. You can take the cat out of the wild, but you cannot take the wild out of the cat,” said Tanya Smith, president and founder of TCWR.

For updates and further information, please visit www.tcwr.org.