Cheetah X-Ray Machine Appeal

An X-ray can mean the difference between pain and recovery

We need your help! Just last week, we were forced to transport one of our young cheetahs, a one-year-old cub named Little Paws, more than an hour away to Hargeisa, Somaliland, for emergency X-rays.  Why? Because our on-site X-ray machine failed last week.

Little Paws had begun limping, and without imaging equipment of our own at the Cheetah Rescue and Conservation Centre (CRCC), we had no way to safely and accurately diagnose the cause. The X-rays taken at Dr Edna’s hospital in Hargeisa revealed a serious fracture, and we now fear there may also be underlying congenital issues. Without those images, we would have been guessing - and guessing can cost a cheetah their future.

We are deeply grateful to Dr Edna Adan and her incredible team for stepping in immediately. Dr Edna is internationally respected for her work in healthcare and conservation, and she has always been there for us when we need urgent support. But relying on external facilities in emergencies is not sustainable, or safe, for the cheetahs in our care.

Why an X-ray machine is vital for cheetahs

At Cheetah Conservation Fund CRCC, veterinary care is not occasional, it is every day. Many of the cheetahs we rescue arrive injured, malnourished, and/or suffering from conditions caused by conflict with humans, illegal trafficking, or poor early development.

An on-site X-ray machine will allow our veterinary team to:

• Diagnose fractures, joint injuries, and skeletal damage quickly and accurately
• Identify congenital or developmental issues in cubs before they worsen
• Monitor healing and recovery without repeated stressful transport
• Make informed decisions about pain management, surgery, or rehabilitation
• Act immediately in emergencies, when time and handling can mean everything

Without this equipment, every suspected injury becomes a logistical risk with long journeys, added stress for already vulnerable animals, delayed treatment, and limited diagnostic clarity.

Acting fast saves lives and futures

Cheetahs are exceptionally sensitive and fragile animals. Stress alone can compromise their immune systems and recovery. Transporting an injured cheetah off-site is always a last resort, but right now it is our only option.

Replacing our old X-ray machine will ensure that:

• Injured cheetahs receive immediate, on-site diagnosis
• Cubs like Little Paws are spared unnecessary pain and stress
• Our veterinary team can provide the gold-standard care these animals deserve
• We are prepared for the next emergency - because there will always be a next one

This is not a “nice to have” piece of equipment. It is a core tool in protecting the welfare, recovery and long-term survival of cheetahs entrusted to us.

With your support, we can make sure that no cheetah’s treatment is delayed simply because the right equipment isn’t there when it’s needed most.

Because this need is so urgent, the CCF family worldwide has united to launch a global emergency appeal. Supporters across our international community can give today in their preferred currency to help us replace this life-saving equipment as quickly as possible.