A disabled tiger has been put to sleep at an animal park to relieve her of "any more suffering".

Staff at Howletts Wild Animal Park near Canterbury say they are "devastated" at the loss of beloved big cat Arina, describing 10 as "an age nobody thought she would ever reach".

They have paid tribute to the "gentle, sweet-natured" tiger, who had an unusual penchant for fine perfume.

In a post on social media, Howletts wrote this afternoon: "Arina was a once-in-a-lifetime tiger.

"Everyone knew her name and could tell a thousand stories of how and when she’d put a smile on their faces.

"Arina was a gentle, sweet-natured cat who up until recently loved nothing more than rolling around in all the perfumes people donated, Chanel being her favourite!

"You would often find her posing in front of her admirers, chuffing at anyone who’d stop to say hello, chasing kids and vehicles: all of the things she wasn’t supposed to do."

The Amur tiger was born with a disability that left her with a "distinctive" walk.

She received specialist care from her dedicated keepers and vets throughout her life.

"She was incredibly strong and stubborn and refused to let her disability hold her back," added Howletts.

"Unfortunately, a lifetime of this caught up with her and at 10 years old - an age nobody thought she would ever reach - the heart-breaking decision was made to prevent any more suffering.

"We take comfort knowing her final moments were in the arms of those who reared her, surrounded by keepers who loved her with all their hearts.

"She will be missed tremendously, and forever remembered as the cat that could!"

Howletts has invited visitors to share their memories and photos of Arina, on its Facebook page.