Keeping and Caring For Wild Cat as a Pet

Can Wild Cats Make a Good Pet

Maybe you think: it’s not a good idea to keep a wild cat as a pet, but Some people keep and own some wild cats as a pet, such as Caracals, Lynx, and Bobcats. However, for the average pet owner, it is near impossible to consider this, due to strict laws and restrictions. The good news is, there are plenty of wild cats you can keep as pets.

Wild Cat Characteristics

before you think to own a wild cat as a pet you should know a lot of things about this wild kitten.
The wild cat has pointed ears, which are moderate in length and broad at the base. Its whiskers are white, number 7 to 16 on each side, and reach 5–8 cm (2.0–3.1 in) in length on the muzzle. Whiskers are also present on the inner surface of the paw and measure 3–4 cm (1.2–1.6 in). Its eyes are large, with vertical pupils and yellowish-green irises. The eyelashes range from 5–6 cm (2.0–2.4 in) in length and can number six to eight per side.

The European wildcat has a greater skull volume than the domestic cat, a ratio known as Schauenberg’s index. Further, its skull is more spherical in shape than that of the jungle cat (F. chaus) and leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis). Its dentition is relatively smaller and weaker than the jungle cat’s.

Both wildcat species are larger than the domestic cat. The European wildcat has relatively longer legs and a more robust build compared to the domestic cat. The tail is long, and usually slightly exceeds one-half of the animal’s body length. The species size varies according to Bergmann’s rule, with the largest specimens occurring in cool, northern areas of Europe and Asia such as Mongolia, Manchuria and Siberia.Males measure 43–91 cm (17–36 in) in head to body length, 23–40 cm (9.1–15.7 in) in tail length and normally weigh 5–8 kg (11–18 lb). Females are slightly smaller, measuring 40–77 cm (16–30 in) in body length and 18–35 cm (7.1–13.8 in) in tail length, and weighing 3–5 kg (6.6–11.0 lb).

Both sexes have two thoracic and two abdominal teats. Both sexes have pre-anal glands, consisting of moderately sized sweat and sebaceous glands around the anal opening. Large-sized sebaceous and scent glands extend along the full length of the tail on the dorsal side. Male wildcats have pre-anal pockets on the tail, activated upon reaching sexual maturity, play a significant role in reproduction and territorial marking.

Wild Cat Behavior and Temperament

Even the smaller of the non-domestic cats, such as bobcats, servals, and lynx, are not at all like domestic cats. Different species have different temperaments, but all of these cats can exhibit unwanted behaviour from urine marking to aggression.

Most of these cats will need spacious outdoor cages in order to thrive. It is a huge commitment and responsibility to properly care for smaller wild animals such as bobcats.

The wild cats such as Lynx, bobcats, servals, and cougars are even more problematic. Even if they are not overly aggressive, their natural tendencies must be remembered. They are predators; even at play, their huge size and strength can make them a threat.

While there are owners of wild cats who go out of their way to provide appropriate housing and diet and have no problems, there are countless others who are misguided in their expectations and ability to provide the proper care.

All wild cats have sharp claws and teeth and can be quite destructive. Even trained zookeepers who work with these animals every day are in danger of being attacked if the animal is startled or provoked in some way.

Wild Domestic Cats

Wild Domestic Cats are our beloved companions at home, but what do you know about their wild cat cousins? We are not talking about lions, tigers, or leopards, but other types of feline species. And sadly, many of them are facing an uncertain future.

There are many diverse and beautiful feline species around the world that can make a good pet for humans, we do not talk about owning a wild cat as a pet but some Wild Domestic Cats that have been tamed to live with human, the difference between the wild cats and the Wild Domestic Cats is one of them has been breed with in house and the other has been lived in the wild.

What to Consider Before Owning a Wild Cat as a Pet

For those considering a Wild Cat as a pet, make sure you do ample research. As a general rule, know that Wild Cats:

• Mark their territory by spraying. This can include furniture, walls, and their owner.
• Require large outdoor caging and/or a room dedicated to the animal.
• Should see a vet experienced with zoo animals. This can become a considerable expense. It may also be difficult to find a vet with the proper knowledge and experience for your animal.
• Can have strict dietary needs, some of which can be pricey.
• Range in purchase price from $1500–$20,000.
• Are illegal in most states, or require permits and licensing often not given to pet owners.
• May prevent you from traveling.
• May not get along with any other pets you have.
• Have a very difficult time being re-homed!
• Now that we have that out of the way, scroll down and continue reading about 10 small Wild Cat species that can be kept as pets.

Taking Care Of a Wild Cat at Home

• If Wild Cat survives cubhood, the adults still must be maintained on specific diets that address their nutritional needs or they will be at risk for malnourishment, which is a condition they often suffer from when they are removed from private homes. The diet should consist of a specially prepared carnivore diet and whole prey with supplementation (vitamins A, D, and E), including bones to prevent the occurrence of focal palatine erosion, calcium deficiency, and other dental problems that can become life-threatening over time.
• Just the same as other pets like dogs, they are in need of their own species-specific stimulation and environmental enrichment. It has been shown that the welfare of cheetahs pet is enhanced if they can view their natural prey.
• As one would expect, exercise is also important. While captive Wild Cat often won’t reach their top speed in captivity due to a lack of conditioning, it is important to exercise them and train them with a short distance, quick-burst running. This can be accomplished with a mechanical lure.
• Although Wild Cat as a pet can seem tame, their care is not like that of a typical dog and cat. Wild cats can often be destructive in the home, and they are prone to urine spraying.

Purchasing Wild Cat

If owning a Wild Cat still intrigues you, you must consider a few factors before meeting with a reputable breeder.

Keeping wild cats as a pet such as a lynx, Servals. bobcats and Ocelot may be illegal where you live (either under local laws or by wider regulations).
You will need a veterinarian that is willing to treat your animal, and it is difficult to find one.
The future for many wild cats pet is a life of neglect and even abuse when their owners cannot handle them anymore. Deciding to own a wild cat as a pet is taking on a high level of responsibility for these animals, one that most people find overwhelming after the first couple of years.

The Price Of Wild Cat

how much the price for a wild cat?

wild domestic cats range in price from a $2000 Bobcat to a $55,500 lynx or even cheetah cub. Most of the mid-size cats, like Servals and Caracals, cost $1500.00 to $2200.00 and Ocelots can run as high as $15,000.00. The more rare the cat, the higher the price. Even though it may be acute and cuddly cub right now, within the year it will reach almost its full size and will be spraying (no matter how young you neuter him or spay her) so you must have some things ready when the cat comes home

Domestic Wild Cat Breeds

the wild kittens are a species complex comprising two small wild cat species, the European wildcat (Felis silvestris) and the African wildcat (F. lybica). The European wildcat inhabits forests in Europe and the Caucasus, while the African wildcat inhabits semi-arid landscapes and steppes in Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, Central Asia, into western India, and western China. The wildcat species differ in fur pattern, tail, and size: the European wildcat has long fur and a bushy tail with a rounded tip; the smaller African wildcat is more faintly striped, has short sandy-gray fur and a tapering tail; the Asiatic wildcat (F. lybica ornata) is spotted.

List of Wild Cats you Can Own

Savannah Cat

The savannah cat is a domesticated hybrid descended from the African serval. It was bred to mimic a cheetah. The savannah is one of the tallest domesticated cats, and it reaches about 25 pounds. They have a high energy level and require lots of exercises. They are highly intelligent and have a mild temperament if they are properly socialized. They also bond well with their owners and are extremely Loyal Animals.

Bengal Cat

The Bengal cat finds its roots in the Asian leopard cat. These sweet cats have stripe patterns that are similar to a Bengal tiger, but they are a much smaller version, only weighing about 10 to 15 pounds. Bengal cats are social cats with high energy levels. They are also intelligent and love their owners.
this cat is one of The Most Expensive Cats.

Chausie Cat

Topping out at about 25 pounds for males and 20 pounds for females, Chausie cats have a long body that is typically tabby, black, or silver-tipped. This active breed is descended from jungle cats. While they are accomplished jumpers and need lots of attention, these felines love their owners and family. this cat is one of the domestic wild cat breeds. it can be easily be tamed

Pixiebob Cat

The natural child of a short hair cat and bobcat, pixiebob cats have pointed ears, short tails, and stripes. they look like normal cats, They are affectionate and described by some as dog-like due to their devotion to their human. This breed is also intelligent and adaptable to the family. For example, they can get along with both dogs and children.
if u want to own a wild cat as a pet we recommended this breed for you

Lynx Cat

With the right owner, this wild cat can be a perfect pet. Lynx is a medium-sized cat with a short tail, and they come in a variety of colors with spots or stripes. These cats are highly affectionate and have a strong bond with their owners. However, these are wild cats so owners must be willing to adapt to and deal with aggression. These cats will also need outdoor accommodations they can’t escape from. Taking care of Lynx as a pet is like taking care of Cheetah Pet it needs a big backyard and meat because these big cats like to run and play around in big spaces.

Wild Cats That Are Legal Pets

There are also several wild house cats that can be legal to have as a pet in several states. However, remember every state does not allow ownership of exotic animals, and you might need to apply for a license.

1. Serval
2. Bobcat or the Lynx
3. Caracal
4. Ocelot
5. Lynx

What To Feed Your Wild Domestic Cat?

We suggest feeding a properly balanced pre-made or home-made raw diet. Providing a balanced raw diet is key otherwise raw is not a healthier option. Properly balanced raw is the healthiest option for your cat. Should you not feed raw we suggest canned cat food over dry food.

What Do Wild Cats Eat?

Wild Domestic Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they rely on nutrients found only in animal products. Cats evolved as hunters that consume prey that contains high amounts of protein, moderate amounts of fat, and a minimal amount of carbohydrates, and their diet still requires these general proportions today. Cats also require more than a dozen other nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and amino acids. Their systems are set up to metabolize a natural diet high in moisture, high in protein, and very low in carbohydrates.

Wild Cats have no dietary need for carbohydrates, carbs are processed and stored as fat. A carb-heavy diet will stress the cat’s digestive system and reduce the efficiency of protein absorption. If the diet does not contain enough animal protein for their daily needs, or they are unable to process an adequate amount of that protein, cats will sabotage the muscles in their own bodies to obtain their daily needs. Additionally, feline satiety is signaled by the ingestion of sufficient amounts of animal protein in their food; lacking it, they will consistently overeat, resulting in yet more carbs being converted to fat.

“A balanced raw diet includes flesh, organs, a bone or ground bone, and a small amount of vegetation. Most people try to feed meats that are close to what cats would naturally be eating, so meat such as beef, which can cause allergic reactions in some cats, lamb, and pork are used less often. Fish should be avoided except for occasional use for many reasons including heavy metal contamination, vitamin E depletion, and the fact that cats get addicted to it because of its strong taste.

Raw cat food diets try to balance the meat to bone ratio to match that of a wild diet, usually mouse or rabbit. This balances the calcium to phosphorus ratio. Cats cannot live on meat alone. Their calcium source is ideally from bone, not a supplement, as bone provides other minerals such as copper and zinc, along with collagen. Rawbone is highly digestible and provides calcium, minerals, and enzymes. The marrow is nutrient-rich. It is only cooked bone that is dangerous.”

Whether you are looking for a Wild Cat as a pet or a hybrid cat, you can find different types of wild cats that have been domesticated or wild cats that are kept for pets. These types of pets have distinct looks and behaviours and might require special care. While they might not sit on your lap and purr, they can still make unique pets.

Sources

• https://cats.lovetoknow.com/cat-breeds/list-domesticated-wild-cat-breeds
• http://www.f1hybridssavannahcats.com/breed/diet