Big Cat Malt Lager 12 Oz Zip Top Can

Big Cat Malt Lager Zip Top Can

The Big Cat Malt Lager zip top can represents a notable regional variation produced by the Pabst Brewing Company at its Peoria Heights, Illinois facility.

Regional Labeling Context

While the beverage was widely distributed across the United States under the standard "Big Cat Malt Liquor" name, strict beverage control laws in certain southern states—most notably Virginia and North Carolina—prohibited or regulated the use of the term "malt liquor" on packaging. To comply with these state statutes, Pabst altered the mandatory terminology on the label, releasing the product as "Malt Lager" specifically for those markets.

Visual Design and Collectibility

The face of the can features the brand's bold, predatory cat graphic set against the vibrant Big Cat lettering. Because distribution was confined to select states with mandatory lager designations, the Peoria Heights "Malt Lager" variant was produced in considerably lower quantities than the standard malt liquor releases. As a result, this variation is significantly scarcer and stands out as a prized find among collectors of mid-century Pabst breweriana.

Brand Variations

Pabst issued Big Cat in a range of variations across its brewery network, including regional regulatory designations such as "Stout" and "Malt Lager" alongside the predominant "Malt Liquor" cans. Within this family of label variations, the Peoria Heights "Malt Lager" remains one of the most elusive and sought-after issues.