Binturongs, sometimes called bearcats, are viverrid carnivores from Southeast Asian forests. Their arboreal lifestyle and olfactory communication needs pose specific welfare challenges in zoo settings.
Binturong welfare in zoos depends critically on providing substantial three-dimensional space with robust climbing structures, branches, and platforms at height. Their nocturnal nature means daytime exhibit viewing may disturb resting animals — red-light nocturnal houses better meet their needs. Scent enrichment that engages their powerful olfactory system is important for psychological wellbeing. Social housing decisions should be guided by individual compatibility assessment rather than assumed sociality.