Beloved Detroit Zoo Gray Wolf, Kaska, Compassionately Euthanized

ROYAL OAK, MI — Kaska, a 16-year-old gray wolf at the Detroit Zoo, was compassionately euthanized on Thursday.

Zoo officials said Kaska suffered from long-standing arthritis and other joint problems.

Veterinary teams closely watched Kaska and routinely conducted blood exams, but zoo officials said the health problems led to a significant decline in his mobility, appetite and overall comfort.

"Naturally curious, perceptive and a little bit shy, Kaska loved to observe the world around him," zoo officials said. "But he also had a playful side, whether he was interacting with his zookeepers, shredding his favorite piñatas or encouraging his mate, Renner, to chase him around their habitat. Even at 16, he was still trotting food over to her favorite sand bed, just to see her happy."

Kaska was born in Quebec and spent time at the Minnesota Zoo before coming to the Detroit Zoo in 2015.

In his later years, zoo officials said Kaska received specialized care to help him remain comfortable, active and engaged as he grew older.

He also received targeted treatments to support his quality of life, including innovative therapies to help reduce inflammation and keep his joints moving smoothly, zoo officials said.

"Kaska’s story is part of a much bigger commitment at the Detroit Zoo: providing thoughtful, individualized care that helps animals thrive at every stage of life, including during their golden years," zoo officials said. "Kaska will be deeply missed by his care team, the staff and volunteers who knew him, and the many guests who came to know and love him."