A pet dog named Mali has become the mom of an abandoned black leopard cub in Kunming City of southwest China's Yunnan Province.

A pair of black leopards were born on Wednesday in Kunming Zoo but were left behind by their first-time mom. The zoo put out a notice looking for dog moms to take care of them, but unfortunately a cub died before such a dog could be found.

Mali, a bichon frise delivered four baby dogs, was brought to the zoo by its keeper. It quickly assumed the maternal role, feeding and licking the cubs.

The zoo has found another bichon frise to help Mali.

Black leopard, a member of the big cat family, is under first-class state protection in China. The zoo said no cat mom was sought after because of the difference in body sizes.

(Cover image via VCG)

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