Capybaras are increasingly kept in zoos and occasionally as exotic pets, with specific welfare needs related to their highly social, semi-aquatic nature.
Capybara welfare in captivity requires meeting three fundamental needs: space for the large group sizes their social structure demands, access to deep water for swimming and heat regulation, and continuous access to appropriate grazing. Capybaras kept in small groups without water access show stereotypies, aggression, and chronic stress. Zoo accreditation bodies increasingly require species-appropriate water and social provision. Private keeping of capybaras — legal in some jurisdictions — rarely meets these welfare requirements.