The Allure (and Responsibility) of Owning Exotic Cats
Exotic cats, whether they’re hybrid breeds or just particularly rare and unusual breeds, are experiencing a boom in popularity. It’s easy to understand why. They offer a unique look and a certain “wow” factor that many people find appealing.
However, before you consider finding someone involved in breeding exotic cats or buying one yourself, it’s crucial to understand that owning one of these animals comes with a tremendous amount of responsibility. Exotic cats have very specific needs that go far beyond those of your average domestic cat.
It’s essential to thoroughly research the legal implications, care requirements, and potential health problems associated with the particular breed you’re considering. This article will give you an overview of some popular exotic cat breeds, including what it takes to care for them and the key considerations for anyone thinking about becoming an owner.
Legal and ethical considerations before acquiring an exotic cat
Thinking about getting an exotic cat? It’s not as simple as picking out a kitten. There are legal and ethical factors to consider first.
Navigating legal restrictions
Before you even start looking at servals or Savannahs, do your homework on the local, state, and federal laws about owning an exotic cat. Some areas may have breed-specific bans or restrictions, and you might need a permit or license to keep one.
If you’re considering a hybrid breed like a Savannah, be aware that later generations (F3, F4, and so on) are often subject to fewer regulations.
Also, check the rules if you rent your home or live in a community with a homeowner’s association. Many apartments and HOAs don’t allow certain exotic breeds.
Ethical sourcing and breeder responsibility
If you decide to go ahead, choose a breeder who puts the health and well-being of their cats first. A good breeder will do health screenings for genetic conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and polycystic kidney disease (PKD).
Think about the ethical issues around breeding hybrid cats, too. How does it affect wild cat populations and conservation efforts?
Meeting Activity, Stimulation, and Environmental Needs
Exotic cats tend to be much more active and require more stimulation than domestic cats. This means you’ll need to be prepared to offer plenty of opportunities for play, climbing, and exploration.
Consider investing in interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and secure outdoor enclosures. These can help prevent boredom and destructive behaviors that might arise from pent-up energy. Cat wheels, climbing trees, and window perches can also be great additions to their environment.
It’s critical to create an environment that caters to their natural instincts. Rotate toys and introduce new experiences regularly to keep them engaged and prevent them from becoming bored or stressed. A bored exotic cat is much more likely to exhibit unwanted behaviors.
Litter box preferences and hygiene
Like domestic cats, exotic cats need a clean, accessible litter box. But their preferences may differ, and their size often requires special accommodations.
You may need to try out different types of litter to figure out what your exotic cat prefers. You’ll likely need a larger litter box than you’d use for a typical housecat.
No matter what, it’s important to keep the litter box clean. Scoop it every day, and change the litter regularly. This will help prevent health problems and keep your home smelling fresh.
Exotic Shorthair: A Breed Profile
If you’re looking for a cat breed that’s affectionate, easygoing, and doesn’t require a lot of upkeep, you might consider the Exotic Shorthair. These cats look a lot like Persians, but with shorter fur. They’re good for families and people who’ve never owned a cat before. They don’t have a lot of energy and don’t need a ton of exercise; they’re happy playing with simple toys.
Exotic Shorthairs can weigh up to 15 pounds and measure up to 30 inches long. They can live for up to 15 years. Their flat faces mean they’re prone to eye staining, so you’ll have to clean their faces every day.
Care and health
You’ll only need to brush your Exotic Shorthair once a week with a steel comb. Check their ears every week and clean them, too, but don’t use cotton swabs.
Exotic Shorthairs are prone to health problems like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), polycystic kidney disease (PKD), and respiratory problems (especially if they have very flat faces). Ethical breeders should perform DNA tests to make sure their cats aren’t passing on genetic problems.
History and origin
Exotic Shorthairs were created by breeding Persian cats with American Shorthairs, Burmese, and Russian Blue cats. The idea was to create a cat that looked like a Persian but was easier to groom. They were the fourth most popular breed in 2022, according to The Cat Fanciers’ Association.
Leopard-like exotic cat breeds
If you love the look of leopards but don’t want the risk or ethical problems of owning a wild animal, you may want to consider one of these breeds.
Bengal
Bengals are a hybrid breed created by crossing domestic cats with Asian Leopard Cats. They have distinctive spotted coats that make them look like miniature leopards. These cats can weigh up to 18 pounds, and they’re known to be active and intelligent. Bengals need lots of stimulation, so be prepared to provide interactive play and climbing opportunities to keep them from getting bored.
Ocicat
The Ocicat is a domestic breed that looks like a wild cat but has no wild cat DNA. They have spotted coats and typically weigh up to 15 pounds. Ocicats are social, confident, and adaptable, and they enjoy interacting with people and other pets.
Savannah
Savannahs are a hybrid breed resulting from a cross between a Serval and a domestic cat. These cats are tall and slender with spotted coats, and they can grow to be 25 pounds. Savannahs are highly intelligent and active cats, and they need experienced owners who can provide them with plenty of space and enrichment to thrive. As hybrid animals, they are outlawed or restricted in some areas.
Other leopard-like breeds
You may also want to look into the Cheetoh (which can weigh 20+ pounds), the Egyptian Mau (which can run up to 30 mph), and the Serengeti (which can weigh up to 15 pounds).
Exploring Tiger-Like, Lion-Like, and Bobcat-Like Exotic Cat Breeds
If you love the look of wild cats, but want a smaller, domesticated version, here are a few breeds to consider.
Toyger (Tiger-Like)
Toygers were bred to look like miniature tigers, with a distinctive striped coat pattern. These cats can weigh up to 15 pounds, and they’re known for being affectionate and playful. Toygers enjoy interacting with people and need plenty of attention and stimulation.
Abyssinian and Chausie (Lion-Like)
The Abyssinian is known for its ticked coat pattern, which gives it a wild look. These cats typically weigh between 7 and 10 pounds, and they’re active, intelligent, and curious.
Chausies can grow quite large, up to 25 pounds, and they have a distinctly wild appearance. These cats are active and need lots of playtime and engagement.
American Bobtail, Kurilian Bobtail, Manx, and Pixie-bob (Bobcat-Like)
All these breeds have a shortened tail, much like a bobcat’s tail.
American Bobtails can weigh up to 16 pounds, and they’re known for being intelligent and loving. The Kurilian Bobtail also has a short, pom-pom-like tail, and they’re known for being social and friendly. Manx cats come from the Isle of Man, and they can have no tail at all. These cats are known for being playful and good-natured. Finally, Pixie-bobs are bred to resemble the North American bobcat, and they’re known for being loyal and affectionate.
To Conclude
If you’re considering breeding exotic cats, you need to do your homework and fully understand the specific needs of each breed. Exotic cats aren’t just “exotic pets;” they require specialized care and a level of attention that goes far beyond what’s needed for a typical domestic cat.
That said, responsible exotic cat ownership can be rewarding. You’ll have the companionship of a feline with unique personality traits, and you’ll have the satisfaction of providing a fulfilling life for an extraordinary animal.
Before you commit to breeding exotic cats, be aware that you’re making a long-term commitment. It’s crucial to consider the ethical implications and always prioritize the cat’s well-being throughout its life. Breeding exotic cats is a serious undertaking that demands careful thought and planning.