Lions, tigers, leopards, and other big cats are kept in zoos, sanctuaries, and private ownership globally. Their welfare needs are extreme and rarely met outside the best-run facilities.
Captive big cat welfare is a significant and poorly regulated problem in many countries. Animals with extreme space, social, and behavioral needs are kept in conditions that provide none of these requirements. The passage of the Big Cat Public Safety Act in the US represents a major welfare victory that limits private ownership and cub petting exploitation. Continuing to implement this legislation and extend similar protections globally remains an important welfare priority.