What happens if you do see a big cat? Here's what the Exotic Cat Group at the University of Wales, Swansea, recommends:

"The danger to countryside users from the species of cats thought to be present in Britain is small. However, there is a significant risk that a cat may attack a human if it is cornered, if its young are threatened or if the person encountering it otherwise aggravates the cat. If you encounter an exotic cat you should carry out the following procedures:

a. Walk away, without turning away from the cat, slowly and deliberately. DO NOT RUN.

b. Do not make full eye contact with the cat or try to stare at the cats eyes, as this is considered threatening behaviour and may instigate territorial behaviours from the cat.

c. Hold out your arms and try to make yourself look big. Shout and jump up and down if appropriate.

d. Act human; talk and make noise as you walk. Do not walk away quietly.

e. Allow the cat to move away at its own pace and in its own direction. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO FOLLOW THE CAT.

f. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SHOOT THE CAT. This message applies even to individuals that may be considered marksmen. Not only is this a safety issue, since an injured cat may represent a significant danger to humans, but there may also be serious legal issues involved.

In most cases the cat will take off, fairly quickly. Most cat species are very shy and contact with humans is rare."

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