Health Deteriorates For Former Tulsa Tiger Cub In Tacoma Zoo

We've watched him grow up on Six In The Morning, but now we have some sad news to pass along about Berani, a Malayan tiger cub.

Officials at his new zoo home in Washington state, Point Defiance Zoo say he's in poor health and they can't figure out what's wrong with Berani.

In October 2012, we followed him from his birthplace at the Tulsa Zoo, to the zoo in Tacoma, Washington.

10/12/2012 Related Story: Tulsa Tiger Cub Berani Meets New Family In Washington

Berani had to have emergency surgery on Monday afternoon after zoo officials said the young tiger was lethargic, not eating and had a high fever.

Zoo officials say the six-month-old is in acute respiratory distress.

They don't know what made him sick originally. Their only clue is that they noticed his gastrointestinal tract was very irritated when they were operating on him.

The Tulsa Zoo released a statement, it says in part: "We are saddened by the news of Berani's sudden health decline, but we are confident that he is receiving the best veterinary care. We care for Berani as he is one of our own and our thoughts are with Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium during this time."

After surgery, zoo officials kept him sedated and on oxygen. We will keep you updated when we learn more.