A cougar is a large cat native to the Americas, also known as the puma, mountain lion, catamount, or panther. It is second only in size to the jaguar and is not technically grouped with the "true" big cats, as it is slightly smaller and lacks the vocal physiology to roar. The cougar is a generalist hypercarnivore that prefers large mammals such as deer, elk, moose, and bighorn sheep, but it opportunistically takes smaller prey such as rodents, birds, and even domestic animals including pets.

In addition to its zoological definition, "cougar" is also a slang term for an older woman who seeks romantic or sexual relationships with significantly younger men). The term has been increasingly used in television shows, advertising, and film).