The Punjab Wildlife Department has launched a landmark initiative to regulate the ownership of big cats, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, and jaguars, making registration mandatory for private owners across the province.

Under the new rules, all big cat owners must declare their animals within 30 days or face strict legal consequences.

The government has introduced a digital registration system through the PAWS App, available on the Google Play Store, to streamline the process.

Owners are required to provide details such as the animal’s species, age, and location where it is kept.

The move comes as part of a broader effort to curb the illegal wildlife trade, enhance public safety, and ensure compliance with international animal welfare standards.

Failure to register big cats within the deadline will lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment of up to seven years and hefty fines. Authorities will also confiscate any unregistered animals.

Punjab has amended the 1974 Wildlife Act, classifying big cats under Schedule II, which mandates a licensing process. Licenses will only be issued to individuals who meet globally benchmarked criteria for ownership.

Officials warn that keeping a big cat without proper documentation is now a non-bailable offense.

The initiative also targets the public display of lions, a growing trend in Pakistan, with authorities pledging to regulate and restrict such activities.

In recent years, concerns have risen over private individuals housing dangerous animals without adequate safety measures, posing risks to both the public and the animals.

By enforcing these regulations, the Punjab government aims to bring private big cat ownership in line with international conservation efforts, ensuring better welfare and oversight of these powerful predators.