Sumatran tiger, Sanjiv, euthanized at Point Defiance Zoo in Tacoma

A 13-year-old Sumatran tiger, Sanjiv, was euthanized over the weekend after less than two years at the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma.

Sanjiv’s move from Kansas’ Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center in January 2023 was part of the Tacoma zoo’s ambition to protect his species, which is critically endangered, the zoo said at the time. But a sharp decline in the big cat’s health — including spinal and renal disease, hypertension and diabetes — scratched their plans.

The tiger was given a variety of pain medications, including an epidural, laser therapy and acupuncture, to treat his discomfort before he was euthanized over the weekend, Point Defiance said in a statement Monday.

“Sanjiv was a magnificent ambassador for his species and a beloved figure among both staff and guests,” the statement said. “Our heartfelt thoughts are with all who cared for him.”

The tiger’s death happened about five months after he underwent a root canal surgery at the zoo. Sanjiv had the procedure in January, one month after almost an inch of his canine tooth — which tigers need for chewing — snapped off while he was eating.

Tigers can survive at least 20 years, but usually live for 12 to 15 years. Two female Sumatran tigers remain at the zoo, both of whom were born there — Kali in 2013 and Indah in 2014.