Happy purrthday Zawadi! Elderly lion turns 18

Zawadi Mungu, one of the oldest male lions in North America, celebrated his birthday in style Sunday with some of his favorite treats at the Oregon Zoo. At 18, Zawadi is well into his golden years, and he gets a lot of special care and attention.

"We have a team of veterinarians, nutritionists, care staff and maintenance workers who collaborate to give Zawadi the best life possible," said Kelly Gomez, who oversees the zoo's Africa area. "He's a pampered cat, as he should be at his age."

Earlier this year, care staff noticed some weakness in Zawadi's back legs. While this is typical for big cats - he weighs over 450 pounds - it can also put stress on their joints.

Maintenance workers added ramps inside the lion habitat so Zawadi could still safely climb the rocks there. And the zoo's veterinary team developed a regimen of physical therapy and cold-laser treatments to help strengthen his muscles and reduce inflammation. The results have been promising.

"Zawadi is doing very well with his therapeutic treatments," said Dr. Carlos Sanchez, the zoo's head veterinarian. "His legs are stronger, his mobility is improving, and he seems to be feeling good."

Zawadi was born at San Diego Zoo Safari Park in 2007 and came to Portland when the zoo opened its Predators of the Serengeti habitat in 2009. He has fathered two litters of cubs, and in 2014 was named the zoo's Father of the Year for the tough love he showed them. Two of his cubs - 11-year-olds Niara and Mashavu - still live at the Oregon Zoo.

In the wild, male lions seldom live past 12. While Zawadi is approaching his roaring 20s, Gomez says he is doing great for an elderly cat.

"He still enjoys all of his favorite foods and activities," Gomez said. "We're working to make sure his golden years are some of his best."