A much-loved mountain lion which arrived at a Kent animal park just days after its first birthday has died.

Viktoria was born in Salzburg in September 2007 before moving to The Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden, near Ashford, one year later.

However, following a sudden decline in its health, keepers have announced the 17-year-old’s death due to kidney disease.

A statement from the sanctuary said: "Earlier this year, during a routine veterinary check, Viktoria was diagnosed with kidney disease; a condition that, while manageable, sadly has no cure.

"She was immediately placed on a supportive care plan, including medication and close monitoring by our team.

"For a time, Viktoria remained stable under this care but in recent weeks her health began to decline.

"Blood tests confirmed that her kidney function had deteriorated significantly, and sadly, her kidneys had failed.

"After thoughtful consultation with our vet, and with Viktoria’s comfort and wellbeing as our top priority, it became clear that there were no remaining treatment options. The most compassionate and ethical decision was to let her go peacefully, to prevent any further suffering."

Viktoria arrived in Kent alongside twin sister, Valentina.

Keepers say the pair would often "strut like they were on a catwalk" together.

"Quieter and more reserved than her sister, Viktoria had a calm presence,” they added.

"It was always a special moment when Viktoria greeted you with her soft, friendly chittering, a gentle hello that felt like a privilege to receive.

"Viktoria was a truly beautiful puma, who had the elegance and poise of a supermodel, with striking features that looked like they’d been perfectly contoured with makeup. She would often strut alongside her sister, Valentina, like they were on a catwalk, turning their enclosure into a runway.

"Viktoria had a particular fondness for the scent of fennel seeds, which brought out her playful side, especially when scattered on a cardboard box.

"When the builders were working nearby, she’d perch up high like a supervisor overseeing the job, as if she were quality control.

"Viktoria was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her."

Mountain lions, also known as pumas or cougars, are native to North and South America and can live on mountains and in forests, deserts and wetlands.

Their bodies are mainly covered in tan-coloured fur, except for a whitish-grey belly and chest.

Males can weigh up to 100kg with females about one-third smaller, according to the National Wildlife Federation.

Viktoria's death comes barely two months after the sanctuary announced fellow puma, Yazhi, had died.

The Italian-born 14-year-old died at the end of March.