Job Search
Nothing compares to the charm of a cat, but imagine a miniaturized version of a majestic big cat. Imagine owning a miniature Shetland lion! Alas, such cats are rare, unless one ventures into the realm of exotic breeds.
The allure of exotic cat breeds is undeniable, yet the reality is that many of them are not legally permissible as pets. This is due to the fact that numerous exotic breeds have not yet been domesticated. Nevertheless, if you are determined to own an exotic breed, there are certain varieties that are legally acceptable. In this article, we present a list of the 10 most popular exotic cat breeds. Keep in mind, however, that they come with a hefty price tag and require meticulous care.
The 10 Small Exotic Cat Breeds You Can Kept as Pets
1. Bobcats
Bobcats are highly regarded due to their strong attachment to their owners when raised from kittenhood. This bond causes them to exhibit behaviors resembling enlarged versions of regular household cats. Furthermore, Bobcats can form strong bonds with dogs, other cats, and even deer, provided they are raised alongside these animals.
Certainly, the flipside to owning a Bobcat is the potential danger it poses. While instances of Bobcat-induced fatalities are infrequent, the mere possibility exists that your pet may behave unpredictably, leading to potential harm to you or a loved one.
2. Servals
Servals resemble diminutive versions of Cheetahs, boasting elongated limbs, prominent pointed ears, and a coat adorned with black patterns. Encountering them in the wild is likely to evoke a sense of panic among those who behold their unique appearance.
These cats pose little threat to humans, as there has never been a recorded fatality caused by a Serval. Their primary prey consists of birds and mice, or their wet food, so it’s crucial to avoid overfeeding them, as they are prone to obesity when kept in captivity.
3. Canadian Lynx
The Canadian Lynx, resembling a bobcat in many ways, differs in two significant aspects: Unlike bobcats, they do not form strong attachments with their owners, and they are less prone to fits of anger. Instead, they prefer to be left undisturbed.
Their climbing abilities are truly astonishing, necessitating the installation of several towering cat trees throughout your abode. These agile felines will spend the majority of their days lounging lazily from the loftiest perch they can locate. However, fret not, as their presence will be unmistakable due to their frequent shedding.
4. Siberian Lynx
Closely related to the Canadian Lynx, the Siberian Lynx stands taller and heavier, often weighing two to three times more. Fortunately, their behavior is remarkably similar to dogs, exhibiting an outgoing and affectionate nature.
They are fond of dashing around your home at breakneck speeds, carelessly knocking over whatever holdback lies in their path, regardless of its value. Fortunately, the majority of their antics occur late into the evening, given that this breed tends to be nocturnal.
5. Fishing Cats
The Fishing Cat, a rare feline species, thrives in aquatic environments, splashing and playing in the water. If you decide to adopt one, investing in a fountain or two would be advisable to provide it with a suitable habitat. However, given its endangered status, it’s probably best to entrust its care to conservationists.
Owning them is legal in most places, yet it’s not advisable. They remain wild at heart and might perceive you as a regular supplier of food, possibly mistaking you for a predator.
6. Ocelots
The most renowned ocelot was Babou, the pet owned by the renowned artist Salvador Dali. Dali adored his cat to the extent that he carried Babou wherever he went, restaurants included. He resolutely rejected any attempts to discriminate against his beloved feline companion.
Fortunately for Dali, Babou never harmed anyone, despite the Ocelot’s appearance suggesting a cuddly nature. In reality, these cats possess a feisty temperament, often growling and swiping at any attempt to tame their wild instincts. Moreover, they emit a pungent odor that is difficult to ignore.
7. Geoffroy’s Cats
If you’re looking for a wild cat that poses no threat to your family, the Geoffroy’s Cat is an excellent choice. Fully grown, they weigh between 4 and 8 pounds, and their only means of killing you is through their adorable charm.
However, Geoffroy’s cats are not particularly fond of humans or other animals. They prefer to keep to themselves as much as possible, often remaining unseen even when sharing a home with them.
8. Caracals
Caracals, a blend of Servals and Lynxes, are generally more approachable than both breeds. Their behavior resembles that of large housecats, making them one of the most pet-friendly species on this list.
However, any play and affection you offer them must be given according to their preferences. Simply approaching them to pet them, or worse, picking them up, is not acceptable as they will promptly assert their dominance. Additionally, they hiss, which can be quite unnerving.
9. Jungle Cats
These animals resemble oversized household felines, yet they possess an extraordinary nervous disposition, regardless of how long they have resided in the same abode. Native to Asia and Egypt, Jungle Cats are prone to flee to the nearest refuge whenever confronted with any unexpected occurrence.
They prefer solitude and may not suit owners who require constant attention. They thrive best in enclosed outdoor environments, thus, fencing in your patio could offer them an ideal habitat.
10. Asian Leopard Cats
Although Asian Leopard Cats may resemble leopards in appearance, they are not actual members of the leopard species. These cats are significantly smaller, comparable in size to the average housecat, and serve as the ancestors of the popular Bengal breed.
Asian Leopard Cats can indeed be excellent pets, but only if they are properly socialized from a tender age. However, even in ideal conditions, they require ample solitude. Therefore, it is crucial to refrain from showering them with excessive affection, as this may overwhelm them.
Adopting a Regular Cat Is Still Your Best Bet
These exotic cats, while undoubtedly fascinating conversation starters, are typically unsuitable as pets. They thrive better in the solitude of the wild, rather than in captivity. It is far more rewarding to rescue a regular cat from your local shelter, rather than investing thousands of dollars in a Jungle Cat. If, however, you are determined to adopt an exotic cat, it is imperative to verify the legality of owning such a species in your region.
