Cheetahs are not classified as a big cat because they cannot roar.
The term “big cats” typically refers to members of the genus Panthera, which includes lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars. These animals are known for their ability to roar due to a specialized larynx and a unique set of vocal cords.
Cheetahs belong to the genus Acinonyx and are distinguished by their running speed. Instead of roaring, cheetahs use a variety of other sounds to communicate, such as purring, hissing, and chirping sounds.