Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Pallas's cat Timofey has begun preparing for the warm season—fattening, the process of gradually losing weight accumulated over the winter. Pallas's cat is a favorite of visitors and the symbol of the Moscow Zoo, which is part of the capital's Department of Culture.
"We've developed a gradual weight-loss schedule for Timofey. He currently has one fasting day a week: typically, Sundays are his first day without food. On other days, the Pallas's cat is fed once a day, with a daily portion of approximately 150-170 grams. Zoologists carefully monitor his weight through regular weigh-ins: our goal is to make this process as smooth and natural as possible. We don't want the cat to be constantly hungry or stressed, so we calculate the approximate portion size: it should be small but sufficient for the animal's comfort," shared Svetlana Akulova, General Director of the Moscow Zoo.
In the wild, these animals accumulate fat reserves to survive harsh winters. The Pallas's cat began gaining weight with the arrival of autumn. Even before the cold weather set in, zoologists gradually increased his food intake, and by midwinter, Timofey's weight reached 6.5 kilograms. He now weighs 5.6 kilograms, and his diet includes rodents and quail.
The fattening process will be gradually adjusted: as early as May, the number of fasting days will increase to two per week. The process is expected to be completed by early summer.
With the arrival of sunny weather, Timofey's social behavior has also changed. He has begun to venture out of his house for fresh air more often. City residents can see him walking in his outdoor enclosure around nine in the morning, as well as during the day.
Anyone can also observe the wild cat thanks to the daily online broadcasts from his enclosure on mos.ru.
In addition, the Pallas's cat has begun to shed its thick undercoat; by June, its fur will acquire reddish hues.
Pallas's cats are rare feline predators listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The Moscow Zoo is participating in a conservation and research program for this unique species.
Today, the Moscow Zoo is a dynamically developing space where scientific research is conducted, international conferences are held, educational programs are implemented, and a unique atmosphere is created daily for introducing residents and visitors to the amazing world of wildlife.
In early 2025, the Moscow Zoo set a world record for the number of animal species on display: 1,253. By 2026, that number had exceeded 1,280. This remarkable achievement was made possible by the many years of work of a team of zoologists, veterinarians, keepers, and other staff.
The Moscow Zoo's program of events contributes to the implementation of the national project's goals and objectives in the capital. "Family"More information about Russia's national projects and Moscow's contribution can be found at special page.
Get the latest news quickly on official Moscow messaging channels. MAX And Telegram.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.