Florida Wildlife Hospital & Sanctuary pairs rescued bobcats to boost survival chances before release.
PALM SHORES, Fla. — A malnourished bobcat kitten, discovered alongside her brother in a backyard pond, faced a grim fate—until rescuers stepped in. Though her sibling did not survive, the surviving kitten is now thriving thanks to an unlikely friendship forged during rehabilitation.
The Florida Wildlife Hospital & Sanctuary took in the frail duo, but the male kitten succumbed to his condition. Recognizing that young bobcats often struggle to rehabilitate alone, the team urgently sought a companion to improve her chances of returning to the wild.
A Perfect Match
Their search led them to another rescued bobcat—a young female previously kept illegally as a pet. When introduced, the two kittens bonded quickly, offering each other companionship critical for their recovery.
“Bobcats are solitary in the wild, but orphans benefit greatly from having a partner during rehabilitation,” explained a sanctuary representative. “They learn vital skills, like hunting, by observing and interacting with one another.”
Preparing for the Wild
Before release, the kittens must demonstrate the ability to hunt and exhibit natural wariness of humans. While one kitten adapted well to wild behaviors, the other—having been raised as a pet—remained too tame for release.
“The less-wild kitten was transferred to a permanent facility with non-releasable bobcats,” the sanctuary shared. “The other has since been paired with a new companion to continue her journey.”
The remaining bobcat is now acclimating to her new roommate, bolstering hopes for a successful return to nature. Sanctuary staff emphasize they will only release the kittens once they are fully equipped to survive independently.
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