Global tributes after cat dies
Image: Linton Zoo
Images of babysitting zoo cat shared worldwideA cat that helped out at Linton Zoo in Cambridgeshire by "babysitting" newborn animals has received global tributes after its death.
Arnie the cat, who suffered with age-related illnesses, including arthritis in his back legs, died peacefully in his sleep within the first few days of 2013.
Zoo Manager Kim Simmons posted tribute photos of him working at the zoo online, not expecting the response it would cause.
"We had hundreds of messages, but it went crazy when MSN ran it in America. His story seems to have touched and been shared by so many."
Though the zoo does not hand-rear animals unless absolutely necessary, according to Kim, Arnie's most special job was to babysit abandoned newborn animals that were brought into the zoo's house.
"Arnie babysat all four of our adult lions when they were cubs and some of their offspring too," said Kim, adding that he did the job "wonderfully".
On the day Arnie passed away, he had done his "usual morning rounds to see his zoo friends, purring all the way", says the zoo's Facebook page.
"Arnie, our ginger tom returned home for a spot of breakfast and then snuggled up on his bed and went to sleep. There he passed away peacefully."
Staff are now busy responding to the messages, and intend to put a book together about Arnie's life.
"His life is the stuff of Disney movies… He had a good and through life. He was outstanding in everything he did," said Kim.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
