Lions, tigers, leopards, and other big cats in captivity have complex enrichment needs relating to predatory behaviour, territory, and social structure that require dedicated management.
Big cats are apex predators whose natural behavioural repertoire — stalking, chasing, capturing prey, patrolling large territories — cannot be replicated in zoo enclosures. This behavioural restriction, combined with the psychological impact of confinement, produces stereotypic behaviours in a significant proportion of captive big cats that are widely recognised as welfare indicators. Enrichment programmes that simulate aspects of predatory experience — feeding from elevated platforms, carcass feeds, scent trails, novel objects to investigate and manipulate — reduce stereotypy and promote positive engagement. Social housing that respects species differences — housing lions in family groups, respecting solitary needs of tigers — is equally important. The gap between the best and worst big cat facilities remains wide, and welfare advocacy should focus on raising the floor as well as celebrating the ceiling.