From 1.3 Kilograms to 6 Kilograms: The Growth of Adorable Tiger Cub, Kai

Tiger cub Kai takes a stroll around Dreamworld on a leash | Daily Mail Online

In a heartwarming journey from a tiny 1.3 kilograms to a healthy 6 kilograms, the adorable tiger cub named Kai has taken his first steps into the world at Queensland’s Dreamworld on the Gold Coast, Australia. These precious moments were captured as Kai made his debut appearance, drawing the attention of local school children and the media.

Young tiger cub, Kai (pictured), has grown to 6 kg and walks freely through Australia's Dreamworld on a leash led by his handlers

The six-week-old tiger cub, born on July 25, delighted onlookers with his playful antics, even though he hasn’t developed his adult teeth yet. During his media appearance, Kai playfully interacted with a cameraman, momentarily using his sharp claws to remind everyone that he’s not just a cuddly cat.

The young cub is not afraid of the cameras or 16-year-old Sita (left) who he likes to interact with on his walks around the theme park

Kai’s name, which translates to “victorious” or “strong,” truly suits him as he displayed his independent and spirited nature during his public introduction. However, his handler, Patrick Martin-Vegue, ensured his safety and introduced him to Sita, Dreamworld’s serene tiger matriarch.

Kai (right) and Sita's (left) brief interaction was on display - but judging from Sita's nonchalant reaction, it was clear this was not her first time babysitting

This interaction between Kai and Sita was a milestone moment for the young cub. Sita, at 16 years old, took it in stride, revealing her experienced and caring nature. Fortunately, she didn’t regard Kai as a snack, much to everyone’s relief.

Tiger Island Manager Patrick Martin-Vegue said: 'She didn't eat him, that's good', as Sita (left) and Kai (right) played 

As Kai continues to grow and thrive, he is expected to gain an additional 154 kilograms before reaching adulthood. With his cheeky and acrobatic personality, Kai is set to become a beloved member of Dreamworld’s Tiger Island, captivating visitors and contributing to the park’s interactive tiger program.

Tigers are held from birth to ensure human interaction is a daily part of their lives. Kai is being held byTiger Island Manager Patrick Martin-Vegue (left) at six week old. This constant contact gives guests a better understanding of the majestic creatures

Kai’s birth was a significant event for Dreamworld, representing the fourth litter of cubs born since the opening of Tiger Island over 20 years ago. It serves as a testament to the park’s commitment to tiger conservation and raising awareness about these majestic creatures.

Mr Martin-Vegue said Kai (pictured) had a cheeky and 'acrobatic' nature and would continue his familiarisation with Tiger Island with daily visits
Through direct human interaction, Dreamworld aims to foster a deeper understanding and empathy for tigers, both in captivity and in the wild. The park has contributed over $2 million to tiger-related conservation projects, solidifying its place as a leading contributor to global tiger conservation efforts.
Kai's (centre) schedule will involve leash training, five feeds a day and golf cart rides around the theme park, as well as the obligatory meet-and-greet duties
The 1.3 kilo tiger cub Kai (pictured), was born at 4.15 am on July 25 in Australia's Dreamworld to nine-year-old mother Nika and 11-year-old Raja. These two adult breeding tigers can be found on Tiger Island which is located within Dreamworld
There were five viewing televisions to see the cub when he was born. The televisions surrounded the den and was available to view during the Tiger Day celebrations
Father Raja (pictured) is one of 12 tigers who lives in Dreamworld's Tiger Island
Raja (pictured) is an 11-year-old Bengal tiger and roams free across Dreamworld's Tiger Island
Nika (pictured) is a non-contact tiger brought over from another Zoo. Veterinary checks confirmed both mother and son were in good health despite this initial challenge during the birth of Kai. Kai remained close to Nika before he grew to his 6 kg weight
Kai (pictured) remained close to Nika until he had grown to a larger size and was born just in time for Tiger Day celebrations, an event supporting the conservation of tigers in the wild
The young cub weighed only 1.3 kg when he was born and will grow up to 154 kg before he reaches adulthood 
It was integral for the handlers of young Kai to develop a bond with the animal, to help with the transition and to ensure they continue to accept direct contact from humans as part of the interactive Tiger Island experience, explained Dreamworld staffer Al Mucci
Little Kai was said to grow one kilo per week and will remained in the Tiger Island Nursery until he was big enough to join his adult counterparts
Nika (pictured) is the fierce mother of Kai, she remains in the Tiger lair, as she is a non-contact animal
Nika (pictured) is the proud mum of the now, 6 kg baby who has been let out of the lair to interact with the public
Kai’s journey from a tiny cub to a growing, spirited tiger symbolizes hope for the conservation of these magnificent animals, reminding us of the importance of preserving their natural habitats and supporting efforts to protect them from extinction.