That's purr-fect - Pakistani pet lion gives birth to five cubs

Multan: An animal enthusiast in Pakistan is celebrating a roaring success after his pet lioness Rani gave birth to five healthy cubs.

The new arrivals plus another two cubs born nine months ago mean Fazal Abbas Mahi has a total of nine lions at his home in the central city of Multan.

But if the thought of so many big cats roaming round a house gives paws for thought, worry not, the lions live in a specially built mini-zoo in the grounds of Mahi´s residence.

Wealthy landowner Mahi told AFP he acquired Rani, or "Queen", as a one-year-old in 2011 to join Raja, or "King", whom he bought from a friend a few years earlier.

"I am fond of animals and birds since my childhood and I also have horses, ponies and peacocks. I also have vintage cars," he said, adding that he has a permit for the lions from the wildlife department.

The new cubs are still romping around their pen fuelled by mum´s milk, but feeding the rest of the pride is no picnic -- the hungry felines chomp their way through around 20 kilograms (45 pounds) of meat a day. (AFP)