Wild cat rescues and sanctuaries are safe places created to protect wild cats that can no longer live in the wild. These may include animals that were rescued from the exotic pet trade, roadside zoos, circuses, or other situations where they were mistreated or neglected.
Some cats are given up by private owners who realize they can’t meet the animal’s needs, while others are taken by authorities if the animal is believed to have been acquired illegally or treated badly.
The main goal of a sanctuary is to provide a permanent, secure, and peaceful home for these cats. Unlike zoos or breeding facilities, real sanctuaries don’t buy, sell, breed, or trade animals. Instead, they focus on giving rescued cats a naturalistic environment where they can roam, climb, and live peacefully —often for the first time in their lives. These places work hard to give each animal proper food, medical care, and enrichment activities that keep them mentally and physically healthy.
Rescue centers and sanctuaries also play an important role in public education and advocacy. Many offer tours, outreach programs, or online content that helps people understand why wild cats don’t belong in backyards or entertainment. By telling the stories of the animals they care for, they raise awareness about the issues of wildlife trafficking, private ownership, and habitat destruction.
Here is a list of wild cat rescue organizations and sanctuaries around the world.
