Cedarhill Animal Sanctuary in Caledonia, Mississippi, founded by Kay McElroy, provides refuge for 158 domestic cats and 23 exotic felines, including lions, tigers, cougars, and bobcats. It began in 1987 when McElroy rescued a malnourished cougar named Zack, who became the sanctuary's first resident.
Many of the exotic cats at Cedarhill have suffered severe abuse and neglect. Big Al, a tiger, was kept in an underground bunker, while K.C., a cougar, was abandoned in freezing weather. Friday, a lion cub, was starved to keep her small, and Gunther, an elderly lion, was tormented in a roadside store.
McElroy advocates for legislation to protect exotic animals from irresponsible breeding and sales to hobbyists. She emphasizes that sanctuaries are not a solution and calls for an end to the exotic animal industry.
In addition to exotic cats, Cedarhill also houses domestic cats, dogs, ponies, potbellied pigs, and coyotes. Despite economic challenges, McElroy finds inspiration in Little Stevie, a deaf and blind domestic cat who embodies resilience and joy.