BOISE, Idaho — Zoo Boise on Thursday announced Kabita, a 15-year-old female snow leopard, has passed away.
Kabita was humanely euthanized last week following a gradual decline in her health from cancer diagnosed early in 2024, Zoo Boise said in a news release.
Since Kabita's diagnosis, Zoo Boise said its veterinary team worked with an outside oncologist and other specialists to treat her tumor. Despite these efforts, Kabita's condition continued to decline, leading the zoo to prioritize Kabita's comfort and quality of life moving forward.
“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,” Boise Parks and Recreation Director Doug Holloway said. “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 at Zoo Boise since 2011 when she moved from the Sunset Zoo in Kansas. The zoo said that Kabita will be greatly missed by 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,” Zoo Boise Director Gene Peacock said. “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 is accepting cards from the public dropped off at the zoo. The cards will be displayed for staff and guests to honor her legacy.