The problems with keeping any of the Big Cats as pets should be fairly obvious. The size, strength and physical characteristics of these mighty felines can cause an extremely  dangerous, if not deadly situation for even the most experienced  animal trainer. Some of the smaller wild cats, such as the Serval, Bobcat and Caracal are receptive  to human interaction and can be tamed. With proper training the smaller species can be managed more easily as pets. However, they will never be like a domestic cat and will always pose a threat of danger to humans.

 Before you go rushing out to acquire an exotic, wild cat as a pet, please be certain you do not want one because you have seen  glorified portraits of them on television, in movies and magazines. The smaller species of wild cats also come with a set of  challenges and problems. Those cute kittens grow up to be large sized, strong cats with very sharp teeth. If you are unable to manage the animal you are left with few options for finding a new, suitable home for it. Most zoos will not take the cat and Wildlife Refuge centers are already filled to capacity.

Points to Consider:

• There are federal, state, county and local licensing requirements.
  
• Insurance is usually denied to owners of wild, exotic animals.
  
• You are legally liable for any damage or injury caused by the cat.
  
• Dietary requirements and a source of fresh meat are difficult to obtain.
  
• Adequate cage and housing for the cat requires ample space.
  
• A pool for cats that require water nearby is essential.
  
• A veterinarian who treats exotic species is difficult to locate.
  
• Extensive knowledge on training a wild cat is needed.
  
• Children and small pets in your family will be endangered by a wild cat.
  
• Neighbors  may be very upset by a wild animal living so close.

Wild cats are bred in captivity by conservationists such as zoos and wildlife parks, because of the  loss of natural habitats. Confining one to a cage for an individual's personal pleasure seems unnatural and cruel to the animal. If you do chose to obtain one as a pet, as with any pet, research the species you are considering thoroughly. Read books, visit websites, talk to other people who already own or have owned an exotic cat before you make the decision to purchase one. A pet is your responsibility for the duration of its natural lifetime.