In a remarkable twist on pet ownership, a couple is sharing their home with a pet cheetah named Jolie.
Named after the famous actress Angelina Jolie, this big cat is accustomed to a life of luxury at the home of Magda and Japie Pienaar.
Jolie can often be found dining at the kitchen table, lounging on the sofa, or even snuggling in the couple’s bed.
The four-year-old cheetah shares her space with a more typical pet: a German Shepherd named Franky. Initially hesitant about adopting a cheetah, Magda has come to see Jolie as an integral part of their family.
“I was strongly opposed to the idea of having a cheetah as a pet,” Magda recalled. “Then one day, I spotted an email about a cheetah auction and immediately deleted it, knowing my husband would want to go.”
However, her efforts to thwart the idea were in vain. Her brother-in-law attended the auction and ended up purchasing three cubs, including Jolie, whom he later sold to the Pienaars. “We’re really grateful he did—she’s become part of the family,” Magda, 63, said.
Jolie has gained a bit of local fame in Brakfontein, Free State, near Bloemfontein, where fans often visit the Pienaars’ home for photos.
“She’s quite the celebrity,” Magda noted. “People come over on weekends to take pictures, and while she enjoys the attention, there comes a point when she’ll growl and walk away. She definitely has a diva side!”
Despite being domesticated, Jolie retains some wild traits. “She makes quite a mess, urinating and chewing on things,” Dr. Japie Pienaar, 64, explained.
“Sometimes we take her along with Franky to the game reserve, where she loves to chase antelope. Although she isn’t in peak condition due to captivity, it doesn’t stop her from trying to catch them.”
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