Looking for an unforgettable wildlife experience in Jacksonville, Florida? The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary offers a safe haven for rescued big cats while educating visitors about conservation and ethical animal care. This nonprofit sanctuary is home to tigers, lions, leopards, and more — all living peacefully in spacious habitats. Whether you’re a traveler, animal lover, or family seeking a meaningful adventure, Catty Shack Ranch is a must-visit destination that combines wildlife education, up-close encounters, and support for a vital cause.
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Jacksonville, Florida, in the northeastern part of the state. The sanctuary is easily accessible by car and offers convenient parking for visitors. Its proximity to major roadways such as I-295 and I-95 makes it a convenient destination for both local residents and tourists visiting the region. The sanctuary’s address is 1860 Starratt Road, Jacksonville, FL 32226, and it's situated just a short drive from Jacksonville International Airport, making it an ideal stop for travelers arriving in or departing from the city.
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary operates with a clear and compassionate mission: to provide a safe, loving, forever home for endangered big cats and to educate the public about their plight in the wild and in captivity. The sanctuary focuses on rescuing exotic animals from abusive, neglectful, or exploitative situations. Unlike traditional zoos, Catty Shack Ranch does not breed, sell, or trade animals. Instead, it emphasizes long-term care, enrichment, and the well-being of each individual animal.
Education is a key component of the sanctuary’s purpose. Through guided tours, educational signage, and outreach programs, Catty Shack Ranch strives to raise awareness about wildlife conservation and responsible animal stewardship. Visitors leave with not only memories of majestic creatures but also a deeper understanding of the challenges facing exotic wildlife around the world.
Catty Shack Ranch is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, founded in 1982 by Curt LoGiudice, who also serves as the Executive Director and Curator. Under his leadership, the sanctuary has grown from a small operation into one of the most respected big cat sanctuaries in the southeastern United States. The organization is governed by a board of directors and relies heavily on the support of dedicated volunteers and donors.
Operations are primarily funded through visitor admissions, donations, merchandise sales, and sponsorships. The sanctuary maintains a strong commitment to transparency and ethical animal care practices. It is licensed by the USDA and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations. The sanctuary also adheres to strict animal welfare standards and participates in ongoing training and evaluation to ensure best practices in animal care.
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a remarkable array of wildlife, with its primary focus on the rescue and care of big cats. The sanctuary provides a permanent and loving home for animals that have been rescued from dire conditions or retired from performing acts, private ownership, or other facilities where they were not receiving proper care.
The flagship residents of Catty Shack Ranch are its majestic big cats. These include:
Tigers: The most populous species at the sanctuary, Bengal and Siberian tigers are often rescued from private ownership or circuses. These powerful animals are given large enclosures and daily enrichment to support their physical and mental health.
Lions: African lions at the sanctuary live in secure habitats where they can socialize and express natural behaviors. Some of the lions have been rescued from exotic pet owners or entertainment industries.
Leopards: These elusive and solitary cats are cared for in environments that allow them to climb, hide, and observe their surroundings, mimicking their natural habitats as closely as possible.
Cougars (Pumas): Native to the Americas, cougars at Catty Shack Ranch often come from situations where they were kept illegally or unsafely. The sanctuary provides them with a stable and peaceful environment.
Bobcats: Smaller in size but no less significant, bobcats at Catty Shack Ranch are typically rescued from the exotic pet trade or from people who underestimated the commitment required to care for wild animals.
Although the sanctuary is primarily known for its big cats, it has also provided refuge to a few non-feline species over the years. These have included:
These animals are sometimes rescued alongside big cats in multi-animal confiscations or are taken in due to special circumstances. Each species is provided with species-appropriate care, shelter, and nutrition.
Catty Shack Ranch takes pride in sharing the unique stories of its residents, which often help connect visitors to the mission of wildlife conservation on a personal level. For instance:
Czar and Nikita, a pair of Siberian tigers, were rescued from substandard captive conditions. Now, they thrive in their spacious habitat, often seen lounging in the shade or playing in their pool.
Bubba, a lion with a gentle demeanor, was rescued as a cub and has grown into a sanctuary favorite. His story is often used in educational presentations to highlight the dangers of owning exotic animals as pets.
Each animal at Catty Shack Ranch is considered a permanent resident, meaning they are not bred, sold, or traded. This no-breeding policy ensures that the staff can focus entirely on the well-being and long-term care of existing animals, many of whom require special diets, medical attention, and enrichment.
All wildlife residents at Catty Shack Ranch receive top-tier care, including regular veterinary checkups, customized diets, and daily enrichment activities. The sanctuary emphasizes that none of the animals are bought, sold, or bred — a commitment that aligns with their mission to provide a safe and lasting refuge for animals in need.
Through educational tours and interactive sessions, visitors can learn not just about the animals themselves, but also about the broader issues of wildlife conservation and the ethical treatment of exotic animals.
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is best known for its up-close and personal encounters with big cats. Visitors can see rescued lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, and bobcats in spacious enclosures designed to prioritize the animals’ well-being. One of the most popular attractions is the nighttime feeding tour, where guests can watch the big cats being fed — a powerful and immersive experience that showcases their natural behaviors. The sanctuary also features educational signage and guided tours, offering insights into the history and personalities of each animal resident.
Visitors to Catty Shack have a range of engaging activities to choose from. Daytime self-guided tours allow for a relaxed pace, perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts. For a more structured experience, guided tours are available and led by knowledgeable volunteers who share stories about the animals and the sanctuary's mission.
Photography is highly encouraged, and the sanctuary’s open-air viewing platforms offer excellent vantage points to capture the animals in natural poses. Seasonal events, such as the Halloween-themed “Haunted Forest,” add an extra layer of fun for returning guests. Additionally, educational programs for school groups and scout troops are available by appointment.
The sanctuary is open on select days, typically Friday to Sunday, and hours may vary by season. The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from October to April, when the animals are most active during the day. Evening feeding tours, offered several times a month, are particularly popular and often sell out in advance — booking early is recommended.
Arriving early in the day ensures more time to explore at a leisurely pace and increases the chance of seeing the big cats during their most energetic hours. Visitors are encouraged to check the sanctuary’s website or social media pages for up-to-date schedules and special event announcements.
Guests consistently praise the sanctuary for its clean facilities, friendly and informative staff, and the visible care provided to the animals. Many reviews highlight the emotional impact of seeing rescued animals thriving in a safe environment. Families with children appreciate the educational value and welcoming atmosphere, while wildlife photographers commend the unique photo opportunities.
Visitors recommend wearing comfortable shoes, as most of the walking paths are gravel or dirt. Bringing bottled water and sunscreen is also advised, especially during warmer months. Because the sanctuary operates as a nonprofit, guests often suggest donating or purchasing from the gift shop to support ongoing rescue and care efforts.
Overall, the experience at Catty Shack Ranch is described as inspiring, educational, and unforgettable — a must-see destination for animal lovers and conservation-minded travelers alike.
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Jacksonville, Florida, at 1860 Starratt Road. The sanctuary is situated in the northern part of the city, making it easily accessible by car from downtown Jacksonville, the beaches, and surrounding areas. Visitors arriving via I-95 or I-295 can follow clearly marked routes to the sanctuary. On-site parking is available and free of charge.
For those using GPS or navigation apps, entering the sanctuary’s full address will ensure accurate directions. The entrance is well-marked, with signage guiding visitors to the main gate.
The sanctuary is open to the public for both daytime and nighttime visits, with a variety of tour options. The best times to visit largely depend on your preferred experience:
Cooler months, such as fall and winter, are particularly recommended, as the big cats tend to be more active in lower temperatures. Early arrival is also encouraged during peak seasons to ensure a relaxed experience and ample time to explore.
Catty Shack Ranch offers both pre-scheduled tours and special events. While walk-ins may be accepted during certain times, advanced booking is highly recommended, especially for night feedings and group tours.
Tickets can be purchased online via the sanctuary’s official website. Pricing is affordable and helps support the sanctuary’s mission of rescuing and caring for big cats. Discounts may be available for children, seniors, and military personnel.
Visitors can choose from several tour formats:
School and group tours can be arranged in advance and are tailored to be both educational and engaging for all ages.
Catty Shack Ranch operates year-round, rain or shine. However, Florida’s weather can vary, so visitors are advised to check the forecast beforehand and dress accordingly. Sunscreen, hats, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended during warmer months. Insect repellent may also be helpful during summer evenings.
Some events and tours may be limited during holidays or due to weather-related closures, so it’s a good idea to check the sanctuary’s website or social media channels for the most current updates before planning your trip.
The sanctuary is committed to ensuring a welcoming experience for all guests. Most pathways are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, though some areas may be uneven due to natural terrain.
Additional planning tips:
By planning ahead, visitors can make the most of their time at Catty Shack Ranch and enjoy an educational, entertaining, and inspiring wildlife experience.
Supporting Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is vital to its ongoing mission of rescuing, housing, and caring for endangered big cats and other wildlife. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the sanctuary relies heavily on public support to continue its operations and expand its impact. Whether through donations, volunteering, or participating in sponsorship programs, there are numerous ways individuals and organizations can contribute.
One of the most direct ways to support Catty Shack Ranch is through financial donations. Every contribution, big or small, helps cover the cost of high-quality food, veterinary care, habitat maintenance, and enrichment activities for the animals. The sanctuary offers one-time and recurring donation options through its official website, allowing supporters to tailor their giving based on their capacity.
In addition to general donations, the sanctuary periodically runs specific fundraising campaigns to support expansion projects, rescue missions, or medical treatments for individual animals. These targeted efforts offer donors a chance to see the tangible results of their support.
Volunteers play a crucial role at Catty Shack Ranch. From assisting with animal care and facility maintenance to supporting educational outreach and special events, volunteers help ensure the sanctuary runs smoothly. Opportunities are available for individuals aged 18 and older, and training is provided to ensure all volunteers are equipped to contribute effectively and safely.
Volunteering not only benefits the sanctuary but also provides participants with a unique, hands-on experience in wildlife conservation and animal welfare. Many volunteers find their time at Catty Shack deeply rewarding and return regularly to continue contributing to the cause.
Animal sponsorship is another meaningful way to support the sanctuary. Through the Adopt-a-Feline program, supporters can symbolically adopt one of the resident big cats or other animals. Sponsorships help provide food, medical care, and enrichments for the chosen animal and come with a personalized certificate, photo, and information about the animal's history.
Sponsorships also make excellent gifts for animal lovers and help raise awareness of the sanctuary’s work. This program offers both emotional connection and tangible impact, allowing supporters to feel directly involved in an animal’s well-being.
Catty Shack Ranch also accepts in-kind donations of goods and services. Items such as raw meat (following USDA guidelines), cleaning supplies, tools, and enrichment toys for the animals are always in demand. Local businesses and individuals can contribute by donating these essential items or by offering professional services that benefit the sanctuary's infrastructure and outreach efforts.
Businesses and community organizations can partner with Catty Shack Ranch through sponsorships, employee volunteer programs, and fundraising collaborations. These partnerships not only provide critical resources for the sanctuary but also promote corporate social responsibility and community engagement.
From small local businesses to larger corporations, these collaborations help amplify the sanctuary’s mission and create lasting positive impacts for both the wildlife and the local community.
Visitors can support the sanctuary simply by attending tours and special events. Admission fees go directly toward animal care and facility upkeep. Night Feedings, educational programs, and seasonal events offer immersive experiences while helping fund sanctuary operations.
Purchases made at the onsite gift shop also contribute to the sanctuary’s financial sustainability. Buying merchandise, snacks, or memorabilia is an easy and enjoyable way for guests to support the mission.
Raising awareness is another powerful form of support. Sharing the sanctuary's mission and updates through social media, reviews, and word-of-mouth helps expand its reach and attract new supporters. Visitors are encouraged to post their experiences online, leave positive reviews, and engage with Catty Shack Ranch’s digital content to help build a broader community of wildlife advocates.
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary offers more than just a glimpse into the world of big cats — it’s a mission-driven experience that leaves a lasting impact. From eye-opening tours and powerful animal stories to ways you can support their cause, a visit to the sanctuary enriches both hearts and minds. Plan your visit today, meet magnificent animals up close, and become part of the movement to protect them. For tickets, updates, and donations, visit the official Catty Shack Ranch website.
