A viral video showing a tiger attacking a tourist during a photo session in Thailand has shed light on the dark side of the country's tiger selfie industry. Investigations have revealed that tiger cubs are separated from their mothers at just two weeks old, starved as punishment, and sedated daily so tourists can take photos. The conditions at seventeen major tiger entertainment venues in Thailand have been documented, showing systematic abuse hidden behind tourist-friendly facades.

The incident at Tiger Topia in Chonburi Province led Thai authorities to cancel tiger walking activities. However, animal welfare organizations argue that this response barely addresses the larger issue of abuse within the industry. Sedation is commonly used at facilities offering tiger photo opportunities, leading to changes in behavior and health issues. Conservation groups recommend avoiding wildlife venues with direct human-animal interaction and instead visiting national parks or accredited sanctuaries where animals live without exploitation.