Why Is a Baby Cheetah Called a Cub?

Q: What is a baby cheetah called?

A baby cheetah is called a cub. Cheetah cubs have a tall "mantle" of hair on their back for camouflage

Q: What other animals are called cubs?

Yes! 9 animals share the baby name "Cub": badger, bear, cheetah, leopard, lion, panda, polar bear, red panda, tiger.

The story behind the baby animal name “Cub” — its origin, meaning, and history.

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Baby Animal Names Editorial Team

·Updated 2025

Quick Answer

A baby cheetah is called a cub. The name "Cub" has been used for baby cheetahs for centuries.

The Origin of “Cub”

The baby animal name “Cub” for cheetahs has deep roots in the English language. Like many baby animal names, it evolved from practical usage — people who worked closely with animals needed specific terms to describe their young.

Baby animal names often come from Old English, Latin, French, or indigenous languages. They reflect how humans have interacted with and categorized animals throughout history.

Other Animals Called “Cub”

“Cub” isn't unique to cheetahs.9 animals share this baby name:

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

See all animals called “Cub” →

Fun Facts About Baby Cheetahs

•Cheetah cubs have a tall "mantle" of hair on their back for camouflage
•The mantle makes them look like honey badgers to scare predators
•Cubs lose their mantle at about 5 months
•Up to 90% of cheetah cubs don't survive their first year in the wild

Did You Know?

Cheetah cubs have a mohawk-like mane that makes them look like honey badgers — a clever disguise!

How to Pronounce “Cub”