Mondo's Story

In late January of 2023, Mondo – an African Serval – made national headlines, “Missouri Farmer Traps’ Crazy Looking Cat.'” Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR) received a phone call from a Missouri farmer who had humanely trapped an exotic-looking cat that he had spotted on his property. Recognizing that this animal was not native to the area and that it was the middle of winter, the farmer wanted to ensure the exotic wild cat received proper care. Therefore, the farmer called TCWR. The name Mondo was given to her by one of our supporters who has committed to help fund lifelong care for her. Her name means ‘serval’ in Swahili, where African Servals are native.

Mondo’s previous story is unknown; however, smaller wild cats that people purchase as pets, like servals, often either escape their living situation or are freely released into the wilderness. Despite her stealth and skill, this young serval almost did not escape the harsh winter and Ozark terrain alive. TCWR treated Mondo for frostbite on the tip of her tail, which resulted in a small portion of her tail being amputated. She also had a nasty infection on her back foot and was treated with antibiotics. She has healed completely and now has the luxury of a heated building during winter. Unique to her, Mondo is feisty towards all people, often hissing at them in preference for solitude.