At least 587 large wild cats—including lions, tigers, leopards, pumas, and jaguars—are being kept as exotic pets by private individuals throughout Punjab, prompting action from the Punjab Wildlife Department.
The department has launched a province-wide verification campaign to validate ownership claims and ensure compliance with wildlife laws.
Following a public appeal for citizens to declare ownership of such animals, the department received a surge of declarations, particularly from urban hubs like Lahore. However, concerns have emerged about the authenticity and completeness of the data.
“There are numerous inconsistencies in the information submitted,” said Junaid Alam, Deputy Director (Headquarters) at the Punjab Wildlife Department. “We’ve instructed district wildlife officers to carry out on-site inspections before any registration is finalized.”
This initiative comes amid increasing alarm over the illegal possession of wild predators and the potential danger they pose to communities.
Alam cautioned that individuals who fail to report their exotic animals risk legal penalties, including the seizure of the animals. In recent operations in Gujranwala, authorities confiscated three unregistered big cats.
Under current rules, individuals must pay a registration fee of Rs. 50,000 per animal, with yearly renewals. Only certified breeding farms that meet strict criteria—such as appropriate enclosures, access to open areas, and regular veterinary care—are permitted to house such animals.
Keeping big cats in residential homes or crowded urban settings is strictly forbidden.
Additionally, the department has banned the creation of videos featuring these animals for social media platforms like TikTok, citing both public safety concerns and risks to animal welfare.
According to officials, the verification drive is part of a broader campaign to strengthen wildlife regulation and promote ethical animal ownership.
“These measures are vital not only for the safety of the public but also to protect the health and dignity of these magnificent creatures,” Alam emphasized.
The Wildlife Department is urging all owners to comply with the registration process without delay.
