Frequently asked questions about cheetahs
- Johan Siggesson
- Jul 7
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 11
From speed and behavior to conservation status and hunting habits, cheetahs continue to capture our curiosity. Whether you’re drawn to their presence in the wild or through the quiet detail of cheetah prints, this guide answers the most frequently asked questions about cheetahs. Learning more about how cheetahs live and what they face in the wild can deepen your connection to both the species and the images that reflect their story.
Are Cheetahs cats?
Yes, cheetahs are part of the Felidae (cat) family, though they differ from others in their behavior and vocalisations.
Are cheetahs big cats?
Technically, no. cheetahs are not classified as true big cats. They are part of the cat family but belong to a different lineage and cannot roar, which is one of the key traits that define true big cats like lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars.
What do cheetahs look like?
Cheetahs have slender bodies, long legs, and a small head. Their coats are tan with black spots and a white underbelly. They also have black "tear marks" running from eyes to mouth.
Where do cheetahs live?
Cheetahs are found primarily in sub-Saharan Africa. A very small population also survives in Iran. They prefer open savannahs and dry grasslands.
Do cheetahs live in the desert?
Some cheetahs live in arid areas like the Kalahari Desert, but they are more common in grasslands and savannahs.
How much do cheetahs weigh?
Adult cheetahs weigh between 35 and 65 kg (77 to 143 lbs), depending on sex and location.
How long do cheetahs live?
In the wild, cheetahs live 10 to 12 years. In captivity, they may live up to 17 years.
What are baby cheetahs called?
Baby cheetahs are called cubs.
What is a group of cheetahs called?
A group of male cheetahs is called a coalition. Females are usually solitary except when raising cubs.
Can cheetahs climb trees?
Cheetahs can climb small trees and termite mounds for better visibility but are not natural climbers like leopards.
Can cheetahs swim?
Cheetahs can swim if needed, but they generally avoid water and are not known for their swimming ability.
What do cheetahs eat?
Cheetahs hunt mostly during the day and mainly hunt small to medium-sized ungulates (hoofed animals) such as gazelles, impalas, and young wildebeests. They also eat hares and small birds when available.
How do cheetahs hunt?
Cheetahs stalk their prey quietly, then chase it in a short, explosive sprint. They aim to trip it with a swipe of the paw.
Do cheetahs have retractable claws?
No. Unlike most cats, cheetahs have semi-retractable claws, which give them better grip while running.
Are cheetahs scavengers?
No cheetahs are not scavengers. They are primarily hunters and rely on speed and stealth to catch their own prey. However, in some situations, especially when food is scarce or when they are injured, old, or raising cubs, they may scavenge from other kills if the opportunity is safe and the risk is low.
Are cheetahs carnivores?
Yes, cheetahs are obligate carnivores and rely entirely on meat for survival.
Are cheetahs omnivores?
No, cheetahs are strict carnivores.
Do cheetahs eat giraffes?
No, giraffes are far too large. Cheetahs stick to much smaller prey such as gazelles and impalas.
Do cheetahs eat zebras?
Cheetahs usually hunt smaller prey like gazelles and impalas. In rare cases, a coalition of male cheetahs may work together to bring down larger animals such as zebras.
How fast are cheetahs?
Cheetahs can reach speeds up to 112 km/h (70 mph) for about 20–30 seconds., making them the fastest land animals in the world. They typically reach top speed in 3 seconds and can maintain it briefly before overheating.
Why are cheetahs so fast?
Cheetahs have a lightweight frame, large nasal passages, a flexible spine, and long limbs, all designed for speed.
Do cheetahs roar?
No, cheetahs do not roar. They chirp, hiss, purr, and make other sounds but lack the hyoid structure needed to roar.
Do cheetahs purr?
Yes, cheetahs can purr, especially when relaxed or around their young.
Do cheetahs meow?
Yes, cheetahs can meow. They produce a wide range of sounds including chirps, purrs, growls, and hisses.
Are cheetahs extinct?
No, cheetahs are not extinct but are considered vulnerable, but they are in decline. Only about 7,000 remain in the wild.
Are cheetahs endangered?
Cheetahs are listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN, with around 7,000 left in the wild. Their numbers are declining due to habitat loss and human conflict.
Why are cheetahs endangered?
Key threats include habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, illegal pet trade, and a shrinking gene pool.
How many cheetahs are left in the world?
An estimated 7,000 cheetahs remain in the wild today, with populations fragmented across Africa and Iran.
What other animals eats cheetahs?
Lions, leopards, and hyenas may kill cheetahs, especially cubs. Eagles can also prey on small cheetah cubs.
Do lions eat cheetahs?
Yes, lions sometimes kill cheetahs, especially cubs, but they rarely eat them. The act is usually driven by competition rather than hunger.
Are cheetahs dangerous?
To humans, cheetahs are not considered particularly dangerous. They pose little threat unless provoked or cornered.
Do cheetahs attack humans?
Cheetah attacks on humans are extremely rare. They are not aggressive by nature and usually avoid confrontation.
Are cheetahs friendly?
In the wild, cheetahs are shy and avoid humans. Captive cheetahs may show signs of tameness but remain wild animals.
Are cheetahs friendly to humans?
In the wild, cheetahs keep their distance. Captive cheetahs may appear tame but should always be treated with caution.
