A rare Sumatran Tiger has been put down at the Perth Zoo after being diagnosed with an aggressive cancer.

The cancer was discovered when Setia, a member of a critically endangered species of tiger native to Indonesia's largest island, underwent a health check.

"Lumps were discovered in her abdomen, which proved to be an aggressive cancer," a statement from the zoo said.

"There was no viable treatment options and Perth Zoo's experienced vets made the sad but humane decision to euthanase her."

The statement added:

"It is not uncommon for older animals to develop cancer and other age-related health problems."

Setia was born at the zoo in 2000 and produced four cubs in her lifetime.

"One of her cubs, Jaya, remains at Perth Zoo and another of her offspring, Melati, recently gave birth to cubs at London Zoo," the statement said.

The zoo said there are believed to be only around 400 Sumatran Tigers remaining in the wild today.

It said any donations to the zoo in the wake of Setia's death would go to protecting the animals' habitat in Indonesia.