Cougars are defined as older heterosexual women (typically ages 35–55) who pursue sexual relationships with men who are eight or more years younger. Cougar marriages are relatively rare—only about 1.7% of U.S. marriages in 2016 featured women 10 or more years older than their husbands.

Is it possible to date a cougar?

The most recent studies show cougar dating is typically when a woman of 35 years or older date men that are more than eight years younger than she is. These are the general guidelines. That being said, the specifics of when a relationship is considered cougar dating is a bit subjective.