Rune

Eurasian Lynx

Rune is the largest cat at Avalo Sanctuary. Eurasian Lynx are native to Europe, where they are the third largest predator after the bear and the wolf.

Rune was raised by a breeder, then sold to a private owner who declawed and neutered him. For reasons unknown, he was put up for sale at a local auction. Avalo founder Michelle Altmeyer purchased Rune out of concern that he would not find a long-term, caring home if purchased by someone else.

Rune came to Avalo in 2020, when he was less than two years old. He is a healthy, energetic cat who enjoys climbing, playing and running around his enclosure. Though he lived with humans as a young lynx, Rune is not a pet; he doesn’t want to be touched or handled. He communicates with Michelle by forcing puffs of air through his mouth, creating a distinct rumbling sound known as “chuffing.”