Meerkats in zoological collections are among the most popular exhibit species, but their complex social hierarchy and large home range requirements create specific welfare management challenges.
Meerkat welfare in captivity depends substantially on group size, social management, and environmental complexity. Their tolerance of captive conditions is reasonable compared to some wide-ranging species, but the social complexity of their natural groups creates management challenges that require ongoing attention. Providing sensory retreat areas away from high-traffic visitor zones and managing reproductive hierarchies carefully are key welfare priorities.