Did you know there are 40 incredible wild cat species roaming our planet?
While the biological term "big cat" officially covers the giant roaring species of the Panthera genus—such as tigers, lions, jaguars, leopards, and snow leopards—wildlife conservationists also work closely with gorgeous small-to-medium wild species like margays, cheetahs, and pumas. With such a vast range of these majestic, powerful creatures to protect, it’s hard to pick a favourite. Thankfully, you don’t have to! There are a variety of rewarding "big cat careers" that allow you to work with multiple wild feline species in a single role.
Working with big cats gives us the opportunity to make a real difference in improving the lives of these animals—many of whom are sadly endangered or vulnerable due to human expansion, poaching, and habitat loss. Working with big cats also includes helping fight against the exploitation of captive felines kept in poor conditions globally. Thankfully, there is a growing number of ethical sanctuaries, nature reserves, and zoos where big cats can find peace and rehabilitation—there are likely to be several conservation and zoology roles available within these.
What Does a Big Cat Career Involve?
A career with big cats is highly active and offers fantastic day-to-day variety. Above all, your main priority is ensuring the physical health, psychological welfare, and enrichment of these majestic animals.
Depending on your specific role, your typical tasks might include:
- Preparing specialised diets and feeding
- Designing and setting up habitat enrichment
- Enclosure maintenance, safety checks, and cleaning
- Monitoring behaviour, tracking health metrics, and assisting with veterinary treatments
- Collecting conservation field data and monitoring wild populations
- Educating the public about biodiversity and threats to wild habitats
Typical job roles that will involve work with big cats include:
- Big Cat Conservationist
- Wildlife Vet Assistant
- Big Cat Photographer
- Zookeeper
- Zoologist
- Big Cat Safari Guide
- Big Cat Educator
- Big Cat Conservation Campaigner
How Can I Get Started on a Career with Big Cats?
Volunteer
Volunteering is the perfect way to get started – combine both practical experience with a passion for big cats and you will be well on your way to gaining employment in a big cat role afterwards. Volunteering opportunities are available in the UK or abroad, so think about which you might prefer, although there will be a larger variety of training outside of the UK, such as in Africa and Asia. Volunteer opportunities further afield will give you a better opportunity to help animals in their natural environments.
Get Learning
Brushing up on your skills is a fantastic way to boost your employability by demonstrating to future employers that you know your stuff when it comes to big cats. Why not check out Animal Courses Direct? Our Level 3 Award in Carnivore Studies: Big Cats is the perfect course to bring you up to scratch on all things big cat-related. It’s made up of two high-impact, Ofqual-regulated units covering:
- Unit 1: The Diversity of Carnivores: Big Cats
- Unit 2: The Principles of Carnivore Care and Conservation: Big Cats
Plus, as an added bonus, when you enrol on a wildlife or zoology course with Animal Courses Direct, you become eligible to apply directly to the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) for a Fellowship! This gives you unlimited access to ZSL London and Whipsnade Zoos, along with borrowing rights to their historic library.
Keep Your Eyes Peeled for Opportunities
Big cat job opportunities will come in lots of different shapes and sizes, so it’s important to keep your eyes peeled as to where you can look out for possible jobs. You may like to check out our Careers with Cats Page for more information on how to work with big cats and other feline species.
Enrol on a Big Cat Course Today
If you're ready to take the next step towards a big cat career, our online big cat course can help you get the knowledge you need. Find out more now by speaking with our Course Advisors on 01202 006 040 or by contacting them online. Or simply click below to see the course in more detail!
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