Here is a list of the top wild cat sanctuaries worldwide. These organizations are dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of wild cats, ensuring they receive proper care and protection.
The Big Cat Sanctuary
(Kent, United Kingdom)
Dedicated to the conservation and rescue of wild cats globally, offering exclusive safari experiences and overnight stays.
Website: https://thebigcatsanctuary.org/
FELIDA Big Cat Sanctuary
(Nijeberkoop, Netherlands)
Operated by FOUR PAWS, this sanctuary provides specialized care to big cats that were abused, neglected, or discarded, focusing on their rehabilitation and well-being.
Website: https://www.felida-bigcatsanctuary.org/
Wild Cat Conservation Centre
(Wilberforce, Australia)
A conservation center focusing on lesser-known wild cat species, including caracals, cheetahs, clouded leopards, fishing cats, and servals, aiming to raise awareness and support for their preservation.
Website: https://wildcatcentre.org.au/
Harnas Wildlife Foundation
(Gobabis, Namibia)
One of southern Africa’s largest wildlife orphanages, providing refuge and care for various animals, including lions, cheetahs, and leopards, with a focus on rehabilitation and release.
Website: http://www.harnas.org/
Born Free’s Big Cat Sanctuary at Shamwari Private Game Reserve
(Eastern Cape, South Africa)
Offers a peaceful, permanent home and lifelong care to rescued lions and leopards from zoos, circuses, and private ownership.Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Website: https://sanctuaryfederation.org/2024/07/11/born-frees-big-cat-sanctuary-at-shamwari-private-game-reserve-is-accredited-by-global-federation-of-animal-sanctuaries/
Carolina Tiger Rescue
(Pittsboro, North Carolina, USA)
A nonprofit sanctuary offering a home to rescued tigers, lions, cougars, leopards, and other wild animals, focusing on education and conservation.
Website: https://carolinatigerrescue.org/
The Wild Animal Sanctuary
(Keenesburg, Colorado, USA)
A 33,000-acre refuge for more than 900 lions, tigers, bears, wolves, and other rescued large carnivores, providing large-acreage habitats.
Website: https://www.wildanimalsanctuary.org/
WildCat Ridge Sanctuary
(Scotts Mills, Oregon, USA)
An accredited “last hope” sanctuary providing a safe, natural lifetime home for captive-born wildcats in need.
Website: https://wildcatridgesanctuary.org/
Harnas Wildlife Foundation
(Gobabis, Namibia)
A sanctuary offering refuge and care for various animals, including lions, cheetahs, and leopards, focusing on rehabilitation and release.
Website: http://www.harnas.org/
