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Science & Nature • Mammals

Big cats

Big cats is a common term for large wild cats, usually referring to the five living species in the genus Panthera: lions, tigers, leopards, jaguars, and snow leopards.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Big cats is a common term for large wild cats, usually referring to the five living species in the genus Panthera: lions, tigers, leopards, jaguars, and snow leopards. In a broader sense, the term can also include other large felids such as cheetahs and cougars. Big cats are carnivorous apex predators and are widely affected by habitat loss, conflict with humans, and poaching.

Definition and usage

Big cat is an informal term rather than a formal taxonomic rank. It is most often used for the five living Panthera species, but some sources apply it more broadly to other large cats.

Classification

Big cats belong to the cat family Felidae. The narrowest common usage focuses on genus Panthera, while broader usage may extend to other genera such as Acinonyx and Puma.

Ecology and behaviour

Big cats are obligate carnivores and apex predators. They play important ecological roles by helping regulate prey populations and indicate the health of their ecosystems.

Conservation

Many big cat species face threats from habitat loss, conflict with people, poaching, and other environmental pressures. Several species are considered at risk or endangered.

Key facts

  • The term "big cat" has no single strict scientific definition and is used in more than one way.
  • A common definition limits big cats to the five living species of genus Panthera.
  • Broader definitions also include cheetahs and cougars, and sometimes other large felids.
  • Big cats are carnivores and sit near or at the top of their food chains.
  • Many big cat populations are declining due to human-related pressures.
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Canadian context

Big cats are relevant to Canadian readers through Canadian zoos, wildlife conservation programs, and public interest in species such as tigers, lions, and cougars. The cougar is the only big cat native to Canada in the broader sense of the term.

Frequently asked questions

What animals are considered big cats?
Most commonly, lions, tigers, leopards, jaguars, and snow leopards. Some broader definitions also include cheetahs and cougars.
Are big cats a scientific classification?
No. "Big cat" is a common term, not an official taxonomic rank.
Do all big cats roar?
No. Roaring is associated with genus Panthera, so broader definitions that include cheetahs or cougars do not apply the term to roaring only.
What do big cats eat?
They are carnivores, meaning they eat other animals.
Why are big cats important?
As apex predators, they help shape ecosystems by influencing prey numbers and behaviour.
Are big cats threatened?
Yes. Common threats include habitat loss, poaching, human-wildlife conflict, and climate-related pressures.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_cat
    Supports: Common and broader definitions of big cat; apex predator description
  2. National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/big-cats-1
    Supports: Big cats as carnivores; common examples; conservation threats; ecological role
  3. International Fund for Animal Welfare — https://www.ifaw.org/international/animals/big-cats
    Supports: Panthera species list; broader distribution; threats; conservation context
  4. PBS — https://www.pbs.org/articles/learn-all-about-big-cats
    Supports: Standard vs broader usage of big cat; Panthera species; inclusion of cheetahs and cougars
  5. Carnegie Museum of Natural History — https://carnegiemnh.org/big-cats-big-personalities/
    Supports: Informal nature of the term; broader usage; roar distinction