Research overview: thermal environment and climate adaptation in captive felids

Felid species span tropical jungles, deserts and high mountains, so meeting their thermal needs in captivity, often in non-native climates, is a real welfare challenge. This overview surveys thermal welfare for captive cats: providing heated resting areas and shelter for cold-sensitive tropical species, shade, cooling, water and ventilation for heat-adapted or cold-adapted animals exposed to summer heat, and how snow leopards and tigers differ in their tolerances. It examines behavioural and physiological signs of thermal stress, the role of microclimate choice, letting animals select warm or cool spots, and seasonal management. It discusses thermal considerations for geriatric and arthritic cats. The synthesis frames thermal management, especially offering a range of microclimates the animal can choose among, as a basic but vital welfare provision.