Have you alwa ys dreamed of having an exotic cat, such as a lion or tiger, for a pet? This may sound great in theory, but in practice, it may not be the best idea. While you can find exotic cats for sale, you should definitely think twice before buying one. A local vet li sts some things for you to think about below.
Price
Exotic cats can be quite expensive, and can cost thousands of dollars. The exact price range varies, depending on the type of kitty you are getting. Mid-sized felines, like Servals, range from about $1700 to $3000. An ocelot can sell for as much as $15,000, while tiger cubs (which are now illegal in many places) can cost $7500.
Space
The average domestic cat can do just fine in a smaller home, such as an apartment. Exotic cats, however, are bigger and more energetic, and require much more room. You will need to build a fairly sizable enclosure for your pet. Keep in mind that a cat won’t be happy in a bare pen or cage.
Laws
The laws and restrictions on owning exotic pets vary wildly, depending on where you are. For example, Savannah cats are illegal in several states, but not in others. If you have an HOA or landlord, you may also need to look at their regulations. This is also something to consider if you may eventually move to another area.
Behavior
If you’re thinking that an exotic cat will act like a giant housecat, think again. Some don’t take to litterboxes, while others dislike being handled. For example, ocelots really don’t enjoy domestication, and tend to ignore commands even more than the average housecat does.
Veterinary Care
Another thing that is crucial is finding a good veterinarian. You need one that is experienced with exotic cats. Most—if not all—veterinarians are well-trained when it comes to providing care for domestic cats. Exotic cats, however, have different needs, so their doctors need some additional training.
Ethics
We understand why exotic pets are so appealing. They’re beautiful, unique, and fascinating. Unfortunately, many of them just aren’t well-suited to being pets. This is definitely the case for many exotic cats. Consider donating to a reputable rescue instead.
Compromise
Still debating? Consider a Bengal! While these adorable, charismatic kitties are considered exotic, they’re no bigger than the average housecat, and they have tons of charisma!
Do you have questions about your cat’s health or care? Contact us today!
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