By: Aaron Cox

Local northeast Jacksonville non-profit sanctuary, Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary, rescues and provides a lifetime home for big cats and other exotic animals. A permanent, safe haven for animals once abused, neglected, or surrendered due to sanctuaries closing or owners making them private property. 

Visitors to the Catty Shack have the opportunity to see the sanctuary themselves by taking a day tour of the sanctuary, guided, or go visit if there is a Night Feeding evening, where visitors can see the cats when the cats are indeed on the move. Tours expose individuals to wildlife conservation and make it tangible for the visitor to relate to animals. 

It’s not a zoo—it doesn’t breed, sell, or trade—never. It’s strictly for conservation and rehabilitation. The animals get a second chance at life in a safe, peaceful environment through naturalistic habitats, enrichment programs, and professional care. 

Catty Shack is sustained by community support, volunteers, and donations. For locals and tourists alike, a visit is not just an experience of exotic animal encounter unlike any other but one supporting a compassion and conservation effort.