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Fan Fest Fuzzies: Kumbali and Kago Are Best Friends Forever!

Metro Richmond Zoo noticed that one of three baby cheetah cubs, Kumbali, was found to be losing weight because his mother was not producing enough milk for all of her cubs. In order to provide proper nutrition for the growing baby, the animal caretakers decided to hand-raise and bottle-feed the baby.

Fan Fest Fuzzies: Kumbali and Kago Are Best Friends Forever!
Kumbali and Kago: Metro Richmond Zoo

As he grew, it became apparent that Kumabli needed a companion. This is where an adorable 10 week old lab mix, Kago, came into the picture. Kago was adopted from an animal rescue organization and introduced to Kumbali. Although their initial meeting was filled with some hesitation, they quickly became fast friends and soon became inseparable. Their sibling-like bond has become important for their growth and well-being:

The dog has a calming influence because the cheetah will take behavioral cues from the dog– learning not to fear his surroundings, but instead embracing them with confidence. The dog normally becomes the dominant figure in the relationship by becoming the protector and leader. The cheetah will not hurt or kill his friend.

These two adorable companions will live out their lives together and we couldn’t be happier to see them play in the video below!

Read more about these two unlikely friends on the Metro Richmond Zoo site.

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