The simplest way might be to enlarge a silhouette of a jaguar, transfer it to two thin sheets of wood, or multiple layers of heavy cardboard. It must be sturdy enough not to flex when it gets moist. Securely tape the two silhouettes together at the cat's back and glue a couple of corks or scrap pieces of wood to hold the design open in an A shape, so it can stand on all four feet.

Then make some paper pulp and mix with adhesive (half and half plain white pva craft glue will do). Take smallish lumps of pulp and  apply to the silhouette, building up as needed to fill out the cat's body and legs.

Dry thoroughly and paint.

Sue

Thanks for your replies!  What type of paint do you recommend that I use once the pulp is dried?
<mark

If you are working at speed in class, acrylic craft paint (it is liquid and easier for children to paint with than artist's acrylics) and then you can either varnish with pva/white glue.  This dries clear, stops the paint from cracking but doesn't last long.
Alternatively a clear woodvarnish (suitable for children's toys) is ok, or yacht varnish.  The latter is slightly yellowish.  The final types of varnish should only be painted on by you and not your child.

Put it in front of a fan. Even a small one will do. The moving air will help it dry. Anywhere you have warm air (not up to combustible temps) will also help.

If the pulp seems too moist, you might try pressing paper towels gently against it to soak up the extra moisture.

Sue