Mike VI, LSU’s live tiger mascot, won’t be at any of the team’s seven home games in the 2016 season in light of his cancer diagnosis and treatment earlier this year, according to a press release issued by the school.
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The statement said Mike was treated in June for spindle cell sarcoma, which was a lemon-sized tumor that almost closed one of his eyes.
LSU’s live tiger mascot Mike VI was on the brink of death because of a large, lemon-sized tu… It appears that the tumor in Mike’s face responded to the radiation treatment and has shrunk in size.
Although these treatments have temporarily slowed growth of the tumors, veterinarians expect radiation-resistant cells to begin growing again. Still, they say Mike remains terminally ill, with perhaps up to two years to live.
Mike will remain in his habitat during home games, the release says.
The animal’s health, safety and well-being are the school’s top priority, the release said, meaning the 420-pound Bengal tiger will remain in his habitat across the street from Tiger Stadium on game days.
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Officials said LSU has never forced Mike VI to attend the pre-game events; the decision to get into his trailer has always been left up to him. The first Mike joined the Tigers program in 1936.
