Saving Wild Cats: Beyond the Big Cats

Elusive. Resilient. Overlooked.

Wild cats have prowled forests, mountains, and grasslands for millions of years, silently maintaining the balance of their ecosystems. Yet, many of these species are slipping away unnoticed.

🐆 Clouded leopards are losing their rainforest homes to deforestation
🐱 Black-footed cats, Africa’s smallest feline, are among the most threatened wild cats
❄️ Pallas’s cats, built for extreme cold, face a warming climate

Many of these incredible species remain understudied, and without urgent action, they could vanish before we truly understand them.

The Silent Struggle: Wild Cats on the Edge

Wild cats, from the elusive clouded leopard to the fearless black-footed cat, may not always be in the spotlight, but they play an equally vital role in the ecosystems they inhabit. These species face a unique set of challenges - many are smaller, lesser known, and their stories often go untold. Despite their importance, they struggle with the same threats as big cats, including habitat loss, poaching, and climate change.

It's time we shine a light on these incredible creatures and fight to protect them before they disappear from our planet.

  • The expansion of human settlements, agriculture, and deforestation leaves wild cats with fewer places to call home, isolating populations and making it harder for them to find food and mates.

  • Wild cats are hunted for their fur, bones, and other body parts. The illegal wildlife trade is a major threat to many species, reducing their populations dramatically.

  • As human populations encroach upon wild cat territories, conflicts arise. Some species are killed due to perceived threats to livestock or property, further endangering their survival.

  • Changing weather patterns, rising temperatures, and loss of prey species force wild cats to adapt quickly - or face extinction.

The Challenges Wild Cats Face

Why is it important to me

I have always been passionate about felines, and while big cats often get the spotlight, I’ve come to realize that many wild cat species are overlooked. With over 30 species of wild cats around the world - many facing the same threats as their larger relatives - there simply isn’t enough awareness about their struggles or their importance to the ecosystems they inhabit.

I created this platform to share their stories, highlight their unique traits, and shed light on the conservation efforts needed to protect them. Every wild cat, no matter how small or elusive, plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of nature. By learning about them, we can help ensure they don’t fade into obscurity and that future generations get the chance to appreciate these incredible animals.

  • Did you know? The sand cat can survive in the desert without drinking water, getting all the moisture it needs from its prey.

  • Did you know? The clouded leopard is an exceptional climber, spending much of its time in trees. Its long tail helps it maintain balance as it moves through the forest canopy.

  • Did you know? The fishing cat has webbed feet and can swim long distances, making it a skilled hunter in wetlands and rivers.

  • Did you know? The rusty-spotted cat, the world’s smallest wild cat, weighs as little as 2 pounds—small enough to fit in the palm of your hand!

Wild Cats & Their Conservation Stories

Below, you’ll find a selection of some of the most remarkable wild cats - species that need our attention and protection. Each cat species is a unique story of survival, and by supporting their conservation, we ensure the survival of entire ecosystems. Click on the "Learn More" buttons to discover detailed pages dedicated to each wild cat’s journey, conservation efforts, and what you can do to help.

The clouded leopard is a beautifully patterned wild cat, native to Southeast Asia. Known for its elusive nature, this species faces critical threats from habitat loss and poaching for its fur.

Clouded Leopard

With its dense fur and striking features, the Pallas’s cat thrives in Central Asia’s harsh grasslands. However, habitat loss and hunting threaten its survival.

Pallas’s cat

The fishing cat thrives in wetlands, using its excellent swimming skills to catch fish. With habitat destruction threatening its habitat, this species is listed as vulnerable.

Fishing Cat

With long legs and oversized ears, the serval is built for hunting in the African grasslands. Its sharp senses and agility make it a formidable predator, but habitat loss and illegal trade put it at risk.

Serval

The European wildcat is a solitary, elusive species found in Europe. It is threatened by habitat loss and hybridization with domestic cats.

European Wildcat

💬 Frequently Asked Questions: Helping Wild Cats

  • A: Start small and stay consistent. Learn about the species, share their stories, speak up for stronger wildlife protections, and make lifestyle choices that are kind to the planet. Whether it’s reducing single-use plastics or supporting ethical tourism, every action matters.

  • A: Absolutely. Supporting from home is powerful. You can donate, symbolically adopt a wild cat, or raise awareness on social media. Sharing facts, educational resources, or links to conservation groups helps keep wild cats part of the conversation.

  • A: While we haven’t listed specific names here, many groups work tirelessly to protect big cats and their habitats through rescue, rehabilitation, education, and policy work. Look for organizations that are transparent, conservation-focused, and rooted in the regions they serve.

  • A: Today, you can read more, share what you’ve learned, support an organisation, or simply remind someone why wild cats deserve our care. Every step, no matter how small, brings us closer to a future where these animals still roam free.