A video of a cheetah cub and a puppy enjoying a “BFF sleepover” has gone viral.
The pair, Kris and Remus, are seen snuggling up together and grooming each other in the clip released by Cincinnati Zoo.
BFF sleepover.
Posted by Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden on Saturday, November 2, 2019
While the friendship may seem unusual, the pairing is not uncommon at zoos and will ensure Kris, the young cheetah, is able to grow up healthily.
Kris was the only cub to survive a litter born at the zoo earlier this year.
Kris ❤️❤️
Posted by Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden on Saturday, November 2, 2019
If this happens to big cats at the zoo, the surviving cub or cubs will often be hand-reared by keepers.
The cats are then paired up with a suitable dog who will help provide companionship to them as they grow, replicating the relationship they would have with their siblings.
Brave little cheetah cub Kris explored the large outdoor Cheetah Encounter yard for the first time today with her companion dog Remus and her care team. No set schedule for when visitors will be able to see her yet. Kris, we are so proud of you right meow!
Posted by Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden on Friday, November 1, 2019
When that happens to Kris, Remus – a local rescue dog – will be adopted by a member of zoo staff.
According to Cincinnati Zoo, it has had “six successful” big cat and dog pairings.
