Rufus came to NMWC in 2004 as a young Bobcat. He spent over 17 years winning over the hearts of staff, volunteers, and visitors alike. Unfortunately, Rufus was diagnosed with diabetes back in April of 2020. This condition is common in housecats, but definitely not bobcats! Rufus was placed on an oral medication to help him with insulin production, and he did well for a long time, much longer than Dr. Sarah originally expected for him. Unfortunately, over the last few months, Rufus began to slow down, interacting with staff and visitors less, losing muscle condition, and leaving a lot of leftovers. We instituted more advanced supportive care, and modification of his diabetes medication, but he was still not feeling great. Diabetes does not have a good prognosis in his species, and he was also dealing with some arthritis due to his advanced age. When he started leaving his most favorite foods behind, we knew it was time to say goodbye.

Rufus will be missed by all who knew him.

• “One day we had a group of teenaged volunteers from a local organization come to clean up the pathway along the front of the mews. A few of them were as curious as cats and decided to go behind the ropes around the side back to Rufus’ enclosure. I “heard” that they tried to reach through and pet him, but he, in turn, lifted his leg and… well, you guessed it! I think the group understood that they shouldn’t have left the path! Thanks Rufus, for all of the ways you educated everyone who met you. You were a great ambassador for your species.” – Dawn, Assistant Director of Administration and Development

• “Whenever I would guide visitors on a tour, it was always a fun game trying to find Rufus. In a very cat fashion, Rufus was always excellent at hiding. It was always a special treat when he would be out and about for the visitors to see. I always enjoyed seeing him up on his ‘deck’ during summer evenings when he would be sunbathing for the last few hours of daylight. He will be so missed by all.” – Jessica, Communications & Outreach Manager

• “I was an intern at the center when Rufus first came in. He was brought in in a very large cardboard box. The ICU director at the time, Justin, told me I should be sure to have gloves on and be ready before opening it as there is a wildcat in it! (With a sarcastic grin) And it sure sounded like there was! When we opened the box there was a teeny scared bobcat. He was only a few weeks old.” – NMWC Supporter

• “I remember when Rufus first came to the WLC. He had a long and wonderful life. You will be missed Rufus.” – NMWC Supporter