Tiger put down at Chatham rescue facility

"Over the last year and a half, we have put incredible effort into trying to figure out what was causing Kaela’s medical issues. At different times, her skin and energy level would improve, only to be followed by a relapse," Carolina Tiger Rescue officials said in a Facebook post. "This week, her relapse included not eating and not wanting to get up. On Friday, we got more blood work and gave her a lot of fluids and steroids. For a couple of days, she seemed to improve. Unfortunately, the improvement was short-lived."

Officials described in the post her "take-charge personality" and her "spunk and infectious joy for life."

Kaela and Rajah the tiger were the first new animals at the rescue facility east of Pittsboro after years of not accepting rescues, officials said.

"They were the sign of things to come. They brought renewed energy and purpose to Carolina Tiger and all of our supporters," officials said in the post. "While we won't see Kaela in the sanctuary, her impact will live on through our continued dedication to helping wild animals in need."