It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of Kaya.

Kaya came to us in 2002 as a small cub from De Wildt Breeding Centre, and along with his two brothers Joseph and Byron, was raised at Cheetah Outreach to be an ambassador for his species. Over the years, Kaya met and touched the hearts of thousands of people.

Following is our tribute to our beloved Kaya.

Kaya was a special cat. He was gentle, quiet, a bit serious and stubborn when he wanted to be.  He moved at his own pace.  Unlike his brother Joseph, he didn't let people close easily; you had to earn his trust and his love, but once you did, it was for life.  He didn't purr as much as the other cats but when he bestowed his quiet purr on you, it meant so much.  Kaya, like Joseph, was an amazing ambassador for his species, touching many people throughout his life.  He gave so much to Cheetah Outreach.

For all his quiet ways, Kaya was a fighter, enduring a long illness, but in the end, his body let him down.

We are all going to miss his sweet, loving presence and quiet dignity.

We love you, Kaya