Tigers are large, wide-ranging solitary predators whose welfare in captivity requires substantial space, environmental complexity, and appropriate management of their predatory and territorial instincts.
Tiger welfare in captivity is profoundly influenced by enclosure size, complexity, and social management. Tigers that must share space with incompatible individuals experience chronic stress. Pacing stereotypies — one of the most recognisable indicators of captive welfare problems — are strongly associated with small, barren enclosures that provide no opportunity for natural range of movement. Modern best-practice tiger facilities provide multiple hectares of complex habitat with varied terrain, water features, and sight lines that allow tigers to feel secure in their territory. Feeding enrichment that requires problem-solving and mimics prey acquisition activates natural predatory sequences. The welfare case for keeping tigers in captivity requires meeting these complex needs comprehensively.