Have you always dreamed of having an exotic cat, such as a lion or tiger? It sounds great in theory, but in practice, it can be quite different. 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.

Price

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

Space

Your typical housecat can do just fine in a smaller home, such as an apartment. Exotic cats, however, are bigger and more energetic, and require a lot of room. You may 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. You’ll need to provide plenty of furniture and toys.

Laws

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 an HOA, you may also need to look at their regulations. This is also something to consider if you may eventually move to another area.

Veterinary Care

Another thing that is crucial is finding a good vet 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. Additionally, exotic cats may have specific dietary requirements that differ from domestic cats, so it’s essential to work with your veterinarian to develop a proper Vet Nutrition and Weight Management plan.

Ethics

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

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.

Compromise

You may want to 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!

If you’re looking for a unique and exotic-looking cat that is still well-suited to domestic life, consider the Maine Coon. To learn more about this fascinating breed, read our article Meet The Maine Coon.

Do you have questions about your cat’s health or care? Contact us, your local animal clinic in St. Lucie County, FL!