Zoo Boise Mourns The Loss Of Beloved Snow Leopard Kabita

Zoo Boise, a division of Boise Parks and Recreation, is sad to announce the passing of Kabita, a 15-year-old female snow leopard. Kabita was humanely euthanized last week following a gradual decline in her health due to advanced squamous cell carcinoma, an incurable oral cancer diagnosed in early 2024. Zoo Boise's animal care team was closely monitoring Kabita, and completed several rounds of treatment in recent months to support her overall health and well-being.

Since her diagnosis, Zoo Boise's veterinary team worked closely with an outside oncologist and other specialists, administering electrochemotherapy to treat Kabita's tumor. At first, this treatment helped to reduce the tumor's size, allowing her to stay comfortable and active. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, Kabita's condition began to decline again and the decision was made to prioritize her comfort and quality of life in light of signs of the tumor's continued growth. Zoo Boise would especially like to thank Dr. Kristine Walters and Dr. Kristin Walker for their partnership and support throughout Kabita's treatments.

"We are grateful for our dedicated veterinary and zookeeper teams at Zoo Boise and their immense care for all of the animals who call Boise home," said Boise Parks and Recreation Director Doug Holloway. "These devoted professionals did all they could to treat Kabita's cancer and prioritize her quality of life. She will be dearly missed."

Kabita has been a part of the Zoo Boise family since 2011, coming from the Sunset Zoo in Kansas. During her time in Boise, she contributed to conservation education about snow leopards, a species classified by the IUCN Red List as vulnerable in the wild. Kabita will be greatly missed by zoo staff, volunteers, and guests who connected with her over the years.

"Saying goodbye to Kabita is a significant loss for our team and for the Boise community," said Zoo Boise Director Gene Peacock. "She was a cherished member of our family, inspiring countless visitors and helping us raise awareness about the conservation of her species."

In honor of Kabita's memory, Zoo Boise welcomes cards from the public, which can be sent to or dropped off at the zoo, and will be displayed for staff and guests to honor her legacy.

About Zoo Boise

Zoo Boise has transformed the act of visiting the zoo into a conservation action. Since 2007, visits to Zoo Boise have generated more than $4 million toward the conservation of animals in the wild. Zoo Boise is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, a national organization that supports excellence in animal care, conservation, education, and science.

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