Aalborg Zoo feeds debate on pets and predators

A Danish zoo asks people to donate healthy small pets to be euthanised and fed to carnivores, provoking a global discussion on ethics and welfare.

Aalborg Zoo sparks global debate over feeding pets to predators

Aalborg Zoo posted a plea asking people with small pets such as chickens, rabbits and guinea pigs to consider donating them to be euthanised and fed to the zoo’s predators. The zoo says this would mirror the animals natural diet, reduce waste and support predator welfare. The post drew swift backlash online and the zoo closed comments to stop hateful and malicious rhetoric. The zoo added that it would only accept animals that need to be put down and would ensure a humane process.

Experts note that feeding carnivores with the carcasses of donated pets is in line with some zoos efforts to mimic nature, but the practice raises questions about animal sourcing and public messaging. Several zoos have used carcass feeding or donated meat from other sources, sometimes during public demonstrations at events. The debate also highlights cultural and regional differences in how such tactics are viewed and regulated, along with concerns about pets lives being devalued in the process.

The discussion reveals a tension between animal welfare, scientific breeding and the public image of zoos. On one side, professionals argue that carnivore diets benefit from full carcasses and natural behaviours; on the other, critics fear pet lives are being treated as a resource. The controversy underscores how language shapes reception; the choice of the word pet is central to the backlash. The episode may influence how zoos communicate about feeding practices and how societies balance ethical norms with zoological needs.

Highlights

The debate over feeding carnivores in captivity is unlikely to disappear soon as zoos navigate welfare, science and public opinion.