The Blog

Have you always dreamed of having an exotic cat, such as a lion or tiger? These large kitties are truly fascinating and beautiful, and they do have a way of captivating us. Owning one sounds great in theory, but in practice, it can be challenging, as well as expensive. While you can find exotic cats for sale, you should definitely think twice before buying one. A local vet lists some things to think about below.

Space

Your typical housecat can be perfectly content in a smaller home, such as an apartment. Exotic cats, however, are bigger and more energetic, and require a lot more room than your average lapcat. You may need to build a fairly sizable enclosure for your feline friend. Keep in mind that Fluffy won’t be happy in a bare pen or cage. You’ll need to provide plenty of furniture and toys.

Price

Exotic cats can be quite expensive, and can cost thousands of dollars. The exact price will vary on the type of kitty you purchase. Mid-sized cats, like Servals, can range from about $1700 to $3000. An ocelot can go for as much as $15,000, while tiger cubs (which are now illegal in many places) can cost $7500.

Laws

The laws 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 a landlord or an HOA, you may also need to look at their regulations. This is also something for you to consider if you may eventually move to another area.

Veterinary Care

Another thing that is crucial is finding a great veterinarian that is experienced with exotic cats. Most—if not all—veterinarians are well-trained when it comes to providing excellent care for domestic cats. Exotic cats, however, have different needs than your typical housecat.

Ethics

We understand the appeal for exotic pets: they’re beautiful and fascinating. Unfortunately, many of them just aren’t well-suited to being pets. This goes for kitties, too. Consider making a donation to a reputable cat rescue instead.

Behavior

If you are thinking that an exotic cat will act like a giant housecat, think again. Some don’t take to litterboxes, while others tend to dislike being handled. For example, ocelots really don’t enjoy domesticated life, and tend to ignore commands even more than the average housecat does.

Compromise

You may want to consider adopting a Bengal. While these adorable, charismatic kitties are considered exotic, they’re no bigger than the average housecat. Plus, these lovely, playful furballs have tons of charisma!

Do you have questions about your cat’s health or care? Contact us today!