The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary, Jacksonville

About The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary

Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary in Jacksonville is a nonprofit rescue facility providing permanent homes for endangered big cats and other exotic animals. Visitors observe tigers, lions, cougars, leopards, bobcats, servals, caracals, bears, foxes, and coatimundis during guided tours throughout the sanctuary grounds. The Night Feeding program allows guests to watch staff distribute over 600 pounds of meat to residents, often accompanied by roaring from the animals. The sanctuary operates a medical facility on the property staffed by dedicated veterinarians and dentists providing specialized care. Educational school tours accommodate all ages and group sizes, offering in-depth guided experiences designed for different learning levels. Tours emphasize conservation status and the dangers of keeping exotic animals as house pets. The facility welcomes public visits daily and accepts field trips from public and private schools, homeschool groups, special needs groups, and at-risk children. Tickets are sold online through the sanctuary's website.