Thai Rescue Center Sees Surge in Injured Leopard Cat Cubs

A government wildlife rescue center in Thailand has seen a significant increase in the number of injured leopard cat cubs being admitted for treatment. According to officials, the center in Khon Kaen has received around 65 leopard cat cubs this year, up from an average of 10 per year before 2023. The surge is attributed to worsening habitat fragmentation, agricultural burning in sugarcane fields, and increased public use of a government wildlife hotline. Many of the cubs are brought in with severe burn injuries, and staff focus on stabilizing them before moving them into specialized rehabilitation enclosures. Mortality rates at the facility have dropped to around 33% in 2026, down from 60% in previous years. Center officials emphasize the importance of seeking professional help for injured wild animals, as keeping them at home can deprive them of specialized care and expose them to diseases. Veterinarians conduct comprehensive health checks before putting the cubs into behavioral rehabilitation, testing them for various diseases.