Texas Zoo shares emotional update on one of its oldest big cats

HOUSTON — The Houston Zoo is providing updates on the health of one of its senior big cats, 17-year-old female lion Mattie.

On Monday, zoo officials said Mattie was sedated so the veterinary team could provide fluid therapy, gastroprotectants, and antibiotics to help treat her gastroenteritis. The animal care team is also monitoring her kidney values as part of her ongoing treatment.

EDITOR'S NOTE: The video above shows the Houston Zoo's pride in March being playful with each other.

“One day at a time. 💚 Our animal care team is continuing to closely monitor the health and well-being of our 17-year-old female lion Mattie behind the scenes,” the zoo shared.

Earlier, on Sept. 11, the zoo explained that Mattie had been “taking things a little slower.” Caretakers noticed she had been qu