Tigers in zoos require large, complex territories and specific management to meet their behavioural and psychological needs as solitary, wide-ranging predators.
Captive tigers in enclosures too small for their ranging needs develop stereotypic pacing, a recognised indicator of psychological suffering. Inadequate cognitive stimulation, lack of hunting opportunities, and forced proximity to humans or other tigers create chronic stress. Modern tiger welfare requires large naturalistic habitats, rich sensory enrichment including novel scents, prey-item puzzle feeders, and appropriate social management.