December 1, 2023 - February 21, 2025
Norman wasn't with us for long, but he was adored from the moment he arrived. He was a happy guy, and very loved.
Norman's passing at such a young age was unexpected and tragic, and our team is still processing the grief that comes with losing a member of our animal family.
We believe Norman had a severe reaction to something he ate, which led to bleeding in his stomach and intestines. The night before he became ill, he was given his normal diet. He received the same meat as many of the other cats, with one additional item: store-bought salmon, which he had eaten many times before. It's possible that particular piece was contaminated. It's also possible he ingested a bug that caused an intense reaction. We cannot say with certainty what happened, but those remain the two most likely explanations.
When our team noticed Norman was lethargic and showing signs of gastrointestinal distress, he was taken to the veterinarian immediately. He underwent bloodwork and x-rays. There was no blockage, no abdominal injury, no foreign body, and no perforation. He did show gastroenteritis, which is not uncommon and typically very treatable. He was given IV fluids, antibiotics, and medication to protect his digestive tract.
The treatment appeared to stabilize him, and he was brought home to CARE. He passed away that night.
We performed a necropsy and tested for every possible cause, particularly concerned that something contagious could affect our other residents. Norman did not test positive for anything.
We are still heartbroken. We had so much ahead of us with Norman. We were especially looking forward to introducing him to Malika. That anticipation, and the joy we saw in him every day, makes this loss feel even heavier.
Norman, you were loved deeply and you knew it. You will always be part of what makes CARE a special place.
Norman's Bio
Norman the serval was originally obtained from a breeder at 3 weeks old and kept as a pet. His owner realized quickly that she wanted him to be as wild and free as possible, and living in a house was not in his best interest. She reached out to us to see if we would be willing to provide an appropriate home. It was a very emotional decision for her, she loved him dearly, but she knew it was the right thing for him.
Norman is still adjusting very well to his new surroundings. He is currently residing in the sunroom so he can get used to CARE and to us. But, he is doing phenomenal and absolutely LOVES to play with toys (which he is very possessive over). He is a healthy and happy guy and we know he will thrive here. Soon we will be moving him to an outdoor enclosure right next to Malika the lynx. Our long-term hope is that they get along well enough to maybe become roommates! Until then, we will continue getting to know each other and will share plenty more pics and videos of this handsome boy!
