Feeding Schedule:
* Juveniles (under 2 years): Typically fed multiple times a day, with a high-protein diet to support their rapid growth.
* Adults: Fed once or twice daily, with portions adjusted based on individual cheetah needs.
Diet Composition:
* Meat: The primary food source for cheetahs is meat. This can include:
* Commercial diets: Specifically formulated meat-based diets that are nutritionally balanced.
* Whole prey: This may include rabbits, chickens, or other small animals, depending on the zoo's policies and resources. This mimics their natural hunting behavior and provides valuable enrichment.
* Bone: Cheetahs are adapted to eating bones, which provide essential calcium and other nutrients.
* Supplements: Zookeepers may supplement their diet with vitamins and minerals, especially for growing or pregnant cheetahs.
Feeding Methods:
* Direct feeding: Food may be presented in bowls or placed in specific areas of the enclosure.
* Enrichment feeding: Zookeepers use different methods to make feeding more stimulating for cheetahs, such as:
* Hiding food: Placing food in puzzles or objects that the cheetah needs to interact with.
* Scent trails: Dragging meat along the ground to encourage natural hunting behaviors.
* "Hunting" sessions: Allowing cheetahs to chase and capture prey items, within a safe and controlled environment.
Important considerations:
* Individual needs: Each cheetah has different requirements, and zookeepers carefully monitor their weight, behavior, and overall health to adjust their feeding accordingly.
* Hygiene: Feeding areas and food are cleaned regularly to maintain a healthy environment.
* Variety: Zookeepers strive to provide a varied diet to ensure that cheetahs receive all the necessary nutrients.
By understanding the specific needs of cheetahs and implementing proper feeding practices, zookeepers can ensure that these magnificent animals thrive in captivity.