USA: Famous “Hollywood cat” euthanized in Los Angeles

‘Hollywood cat’ no more: Los Angeles’ most famous puma was euthanized on Saturday, wildlife officials said.

The old feline, about eleven years old, roams the heights of Hollywood and its famous big hill sign, hence his nickname over time.

Authorities decided in early December to capture him because of his erratic behavior, possibly due to a collision with a vehicle.

According to a statement from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, veterinarians found injuries to his head and right eye and damage to internal organs.

Cougar also suffered from kidney disease, emaciation, skin diseases and arthritis.

“The most difficult, but compassionate decision was to end his suffering and stress by ending his life,” the statement said, adding, “P-22 (the animal’s code name, editor’s note) has had an extraordinary life and triumph. The hearts of the people of Los Angeles and more.” “.

California Governor Gavin Newsom hailed the iconic big cat’s “remarkable life” which has “captivated people around the world”.

Griffith Park, a 23 square kilometer natural island where the animal may have lived for a decade, is surrounded by roads and urban sprawl.

In 2012 experts were impressed by the P-22’s epic ride, which required crossing two major Los Angeles freeways to reach the park.

In a report on the animal, the National Park Service lamented that Griffith Park was too small to house another mountain lion and that (P-22) had “no chance of finding love.”

The “Hollywood Cat” has become famous many times by appearing in public, on video or in the flesh.

A Facebook page created in his honor has more than 20,000 members.