PetopiaBig cats are something overpowering. It could be the glorious eyes of a lynx, or the swift prowl of a leopard but these magnificent animals possessed a certain kind of magic that very few animals can present. Over hundreds of years, people were inspired by them to build myths, royal marks, and even household chores.
Over the past years, there has been an interesting observation which reveals that more individuals want to think on the concept of keeping exotic animals, including big cats as pets. The idea of cohabitation with such a great creature seems to be adventurous, even cinematographic.
However, before plunging into that wild dream, it is important to ask: Is it possible? Is it feasible? And more to the point, is it right?
Are Big Cats Legal to Keep as Pets?
Before you go dreaming of curled up cheetahs in your living room or tigers stretching in your backyard, let us straighten one thing out, having a big cat as a pet is not like adopting one of those kittens from the shelter. It is a big step in terms of ethics and law, and in some countries, it is simply illegal.
There are numerous inconsistencies in laws concerning possession of exotic pets, particularly big cats, world-over. In the US by way of example, there are merely four states including Nevada, North Carolina, Alabama and Wisconsin that have minimal restrictions to none whatsoever in the realm of holding big cats privately. In the meantime, the bans are total in 21 states, the other ones feature strict permit systems and welfare checks.
The situation is still more limited on a global scale. Strict laws put so many countries (I speak of Australia, India, the UK, and most of the European continent) in the position of not allowing people to keep wild animals as pets, largely because of safety, conservation and animal cruelty reasons. India, as an example, does not allow people to keep wild cats, like leopards or tigers, according to the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
Nevertheless, with these restrictions, there are still 5,000-7,000 estimated tigers in captivity in the U.S.- more than the total amount in the wild in the world. A lot of these are privately owned and in most cases, they lack the necessary facilities or attention.
Thus, speculating on bringing a big cat to your life it is important to:
- Research your local, and national LAWS
- Learn about zoning, permits and licensing.
- Think of the ethical issues of taking a wild animal out of its natural way of behavior and environment
Big cats are not mere exotic paraphernalia as majestic as they are. It is strong, instinctive, demanding creatures and needs to be respected and dealt with with respect as well as with serious legal considerations.
Top 10 Big Cat Breeds That Make Majestic Pets
It cannot be disputed how magnificent big cats are. They are one of the most admired animals on this earth with their strengths, beauty and dominating figures. Though the thought of keeping one as a pet sounds out of this world, very few breeds can even dream of being kept in captivity and that too in a highly specialized care.
Wondering which are the big cat breeds that have caught the fancy of exotic pet enthusiasts? Here are the top ten big cat species that you are likely to find at licensed sanctuaries, private collections or conservation areas or, in some cases (albeit with very special permits) in domestic residences.
Let’s meet these majestic beasts:
1. Serval
Serval is a svelte spotted wild cat indigenous to Africa and amazingly it is the most widely represented exotic cat in captivity. This lanky feline has oversized ears and long legs standing approximately 2 feet tall at the shoulder with a build that is geared to run and hunt down the prey stealthily.
Servals are highly intelligent and playful meaning that they are somewhat more adjustable to human interactions than the bigger wild cats. Nevertheless they are not tame yet by any means. To remain healthy, they require expansive habitats, uncooked meat diets and enrichment experiences. Across the U.S., Servals are permitted in many states, yet are illegal in others.
2. Caracal
With the impressive black tufts on their ears easily identified, Caracals are medium-sized wild cats which are indigenous to Africa, Middle-East, and Asia. They have a beautiful body structure and aggressive look which makes them attractive to the owners of exotic cats.
The caracals are solitary, territorial but highly agile (able to leap over 10 feet up) creatures. Although they are able to establish a relationship with their care takers, they are not domesticated and might be unpredictable. Similar to the Serval, most people cannot just own a Caracal, as it will take an exceptional license and specialized housing and extensive knowledge about feline behavior.
3. Lynx
The Lynx is commonly known to live in snowy forest lands and mountainous areas and can be found in a good number of species with the Eurasian Lynx, Canadian Lynx, and Bobcat leading the list. Lynxes are mysterious and strikingly big because they are known for their thick fur, and tufted ears.
However, although they seem to be calm, Lynxes are real wild cats with keen senses. They need a low temperature environment, extensive room and a complicated diet. Others whose owners keep them on strict licenses are exotic pets whose behavior is unpredictable and they are not good pets to be kept in a home with children or any other pets.
4. Bobcat
The Bobcat is smaller than the biggest cats and is indigenous to North America but wears the appearance of an oversized housecat-like cat and its size is not to be underestimated. Bobcats are separate hunters and they have strong territorial qualities. They have spotted coats that seem to give them a rugged-wild appearance because their tails are short.
There are a few states in the U.S. that will permit Bobcats to be kept as Exotic pets provided they are captive bred. Although they can be made semi-socialized, they are wild inside and could be very aggressive when stressed or scared. They have much more complex needs than what ordinary domestic cats need.
5. Cheetah
The Cheetah which is the fastest animal in land has been witnessed as an embodiment of sheer grace and speed. They have great long legs; spotted coats, and handsome faces. Cheetahs are creatures which have been semi-domesticated in certain areas in the Middle East, particularly with the royalties, since ages.
This is highly discouraged by contemporary conservationists though. Cheetahs are fragile minded, and they do not do well in confinements. They are highly demanding as far as maintenance is concerned due to requirements of space, freedom and certain diets. In the majority of regions, any kind of possession is prohibited, and the parts where it is not very strictly forbidden are extremely strict.
6. Leopard
Slender, secretive, and very powerful, Leopards are very versatile big cats in nature. They are feared and marveled at by virtue of their ferocious jaws, rosetted coats and climbing abilities nestled in the trees.
Leopards are however one of the most harmful wild cats to keep in captivity. They are unpredictable because they are often aggressive and they need huge confinements that are secure. They should be handled by only trained people in a wildlife sanctuary or a conservation center but in a tactful and dignified manner.
7. Jaguar
The Jaguars are stockier, more muscular and even stronger than the leopards who they are largely confused with given their appearance in terms of their coats. Jaguars were born in Central and South America and are famous because they are able to deliver a bite force beyond imagination capable of breaking bones or even making holes in the shells of turtles.
It is very unusual and most times illegal to have a Jaguar as a pet. They are less forgiving in nature compared to other big cats and their wild nature is barely repressed. They can only survive when living in big and enhanced surroundings, normally in wildlife reserves rather than in homes.
8. Cougar
The cat, also referred to as the Puma or Mountain Lion is a native of the Americas and can adapt itself to survive in a variety of environments, e.g. desert, forest and the snowy mountain. Cougars are also solitary, secretive, and have a possible weight of 100-150 pounds.
Some states in the U.S. allow a Cougar to be owned and operated with appropriate permits but very controversial. Such cats need stable environments, a special diet and exercise. Although they do not growl or roar as much as other big cats, they remain supreme predators rather than pets.
9. Ocelot
Ocelot is a small wild cat of South America and is commonly referred to as the miniature leopard because of its golden fur with dark rosettes. Fast, slim, and nocturnal, Ocelots have acquired the status of exotic elegance.
But they are wild animals even though they are of a smaller stature (approximately 2535 pounds). Ocelots are very territorial denizens, mark their area with scent and do not cope well with captivity. In former times, celebrities had them as exotic pets but in most areas, keeping them is prohibited nowadays because of conservation activities.
10. Bengal (Hybrid)
The Bengal is not technically a complete wild cat; this name refers to the hybrid, which is a mixture of the Asian leopard cat, as well as domestic. It is therefore the most legal and easy to own a pet that can look wild. The Bengals are a famous breed all over the globe due to their leopard-like appearance and fondness with their energetic character.
As opposed to the rest of the cats mentioned on this list, Bengals are domesticated to the point where they can be kept in typical houses, just that they will need significant amounts of play and stimulation. They provide a passion for the wild without the legal burden and the moral issues associated with keeping a real big cat.
Related Blog: 12 Most Beautiful Cat Breeds That Will Steal Your Heart
Things to Consider Before Owning a Big Cat
Even before considering whether you want to take such an incredible pet as a big cat, pause and only then ask yourself a serious question: Are you ready to take this responsibility? They are not piggy house cats, they are huge, instinct-based animals demanding intense care, huge spaces, and life-long devotion.
Here are some crucial aspects that you have to have in mind before entering the exotic pet ownership:
1. Legal Permissions: In many areas there is a strict control or even forbidden to possess big cats. It is always a good idea to visit local regulations, state regulations and regulations in the country and ensure that you receive necessary permits or licenses.
2. Space Boarding: Most of the big cats need large enclosures that are safe in areas that may cover thousands of square feet so that the big cats can move around, climb and portray wild nature.
3. Feeding: These animals require a raw, species specific and plentiful protein diet. Taking care of them may cost hundreds of dollars a month as food.
4. Veterinary Care: Exotic animal vets exist but are very pricey. Vaccinations, routine care and emergency treatments can get logistically and financially demanding.
5. Variability of Behavior: Big cats have an unpredictable behavioral pattern even when they grow up in captivity. They become aggressive easily and unexpectedly when they are in the mating season or when stressed.
6. Long-Term Commitment: Certain big cats have a life span of 15-25 years in captivity. It is a yearslong marriage of the heart, pocketbook and biomechanics.
7. Public Safety Hazards: These are top of the line predators. Such a break-out or attack may result in a serious mishap, a criminal penalty, or indeed an animal being killed.
8. Ethical Responsibility: Another question is how ethical it is to take an animal that is wild out of its natural habitat. Most conservationists dismiss the idea of privately owned property.
Having a big cat is not for the weak at arms, it is a life-changing move and it does not take an animal lover. It requires expertise, funds and a lot of responsibility.
FAQs About Big Cat Breeds
Have questions concerning the ownership of big cats as pets? These are the most frequent questions that are clearly answered with good wisdom.
Q1. Are big cats safe to keep at home?
Not really. Although even some large cats seem to be tranquil, they still are wild animals at their fundamental nature that is powerful, aggressive about their territories, and chaotic. Even an amiable slash of a big cat can cause grave damage.
They are unable to overlook their instincts with training. Most of the attacks occur without any warning, including those done by owners with whom they have interacted on a regular basis over a period of years. That is the reason why sanctuaries and professionals do not encourage close contact.
Q2. How much does it cost to care for a big cat?
The annual expenses of taking care of a big cat is lakhs of rupees (thousands of dollars). The annual costs to feed just one a good raw meat diet will be 40,000 or more rupees (500 or more US dollars) per month.
Throw in the cost of constructing extensive enclosures, feeding on an ongoing basis and special vet treatment, it is a way that not only needs someone with a lot of love, but someone with a dedication to open the purse strings.
Q3. What is the most legal and safest big cat breed to keep?
The Bengal cat is basically a cross between the Asian leopard cat and domestic cat, and highly legal and manageable. It is charming, cunning and visually crazy without being all that crazy on behavioral levels seen in larger wild cats.
The most widely permitted species of wildlife cat would be the Servals, among the actual wild people, yet they are yet needed to be regulated and dealt with carefully by a professional.
Q4. Which big cat breed is the most affectionate?
With early adult upbringing, Servals and Caracals are capable of affectionate behavior towards those taking care of them, eventually, but, when on their own terms alone. They are yet to be predictable like a house animal.
When you want a loving attitude, Bengals provide the perfect balance. No wonder they like attention, they like people and they even follow their humans around just like dogs.
Q5. Can big cats be trained like domestic cats?
Partially, yes, but up to grave restrictions. Positive reinforcement can be utilized and condition big cats especially when feeding or doing medical checkups.
Yet, they are not really trained in the conventional meaning. They respond instinctively and not to orders and even well trained cats might act aggressively.
Conclusion
Big cats are practically regal, there is something mystic, yet so fascinating about them, their beauty, strength and aura retains people who love animals all around the world. However, just being fascinated by that wild greatness and being able to have it in your home is not that easy. It is associated with great responsibility, legal issues and questions of ethics which cannot be overlooked.
Being creeped out or attracted to the feline beauty of Servals or even the hybrid appeal of Bengals is one thing, but this is not the regular pet. Be polite in nature, be aware of the responsibility and be selective in your choices – this is what true love to animals is all about: it does not make any sense to love animals, only to neglect their needs by making your admiration the top priority.
