Fishing cats are unusual felids with semi-aquatic adaptations requiring water access, fishing enrichment, and wetland-appropriate habitat design in zoo management.
Fishing cat zoo welfare centers on providing authentic aquatic hunting opportunities alongside appropriate social management for a solitary species. Pool access that allows actual fish-catching enrichment, rather than merely swimming, engages their most characteristic behavioral adaptation. Wetland substrate including muddy banks and aquatic vegetation replicates the habitat complexity of their natural environment. As nocturnal animals, they benefit from reversed light exhibits or visitor management during daylight hours when they are naturally less active. Conservation value of zoo fishing cat programs is significant given rapid wetland loss in their range countries.