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Big cats across the world are facing threats of be endangered or extinction. There are 16 out of 40 types of cats that are vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered. Several factors are responsible for this decline in number. 

Big cats are losing their habitats due to deforestation and agriculture expansion. There is not enough food for these animals because their habitats are disappearing.  This loss of habitat is causing cats to come closer to humans and sometimes prey on livestock. With cats preying on livestock, humans hunt the cats to protect their animals. Protection is not the only reason people hunt.  Body parts, fur, trophies are some of the reason people want these animals. Trading of animals and parts of animals is a big industry and makes large amounts of money each year. 

The devastation humans cause cats does not stop with direct threats. Global warming is forcing animals to change their way of life. Prey in areas is decreasing due to increased temperatures. Droughts and coastal erosion are also concern for these animals. 

With this many threats to cats, we need to do everything we can to protect these animals. People need to be more aware of the dangerous big cats are facing around the world. A good place to start is to become educated on the facts and spread this knowledge. 

Definitions:

·         Endangered: Very high risk of extinction

·         Vulnerable: High risk of extinction

·         Near Threatened: Close to threatened

Information from: http://www.seethewild.org/88/big-cat-threats.html