I had a wonderful conversation with a gentleman last week during our meeting, and during this conversation he was telling me about something he was talking to his buddies about. Anyhow, when they talk about providers they refer to us as cougars. When I asked him what is that, he just simple said that's what they call providers. I didn't want to ruin the mood of the meeting so I left it alone. Actually I thought it was hilarious because I have heard of plenty of terms that could apply to someone in this line of work, but the term cougar took me by surprise and I was simply tickled by it.
My curiosity is getting the best of me. Can someone please tell me how this term relates to this industry?

The name is due to the hunter instincts of this illusive cash-carnivore-cat!

I have not heard the term "cougar" used to describe a provider. I have heard it used to describe a sexually voracious and experienced older woman hunting for sexual encounters with a younger inexperienced but virile men.

First time I've ever heard that term in the hobby.