The Dangers of Owning a Bobcat

While it is legal to own a bobcat in some states, owning a bobcat as a pet is not a good idea because contrary to what many believe, these wild animals cannot be domesticated. Even if you raise a bobcat from a young age, they still have strong instincts that can take over when you least expect it. Despite their small size, they are capable of causing serious injuries. If you are considering owning a bobcat, you must be aware of the dangers before you bring one home. Many times, people who decide to own a bobcat are not fully aware of what they are getting themselves into, which results in the bobcat being abandoned.

What are Bobcats?

Bobcats (Lynx Rufus) are small cats that can be found all over North America. Their coats are anywhere from reddish brown to yellowish brown and their markings consist of dark streaks. Their ears give them a distinct look because they are pointed with tuffs of fur on the tips. A full grown bobcat can reach a height of 12 inches and weigh up to 35 pounds.

What are the Dangers?

Many bobcat owners underestimate the power a full grown bobcat has. While there are some bobcats that live in a domestic setting that are gentle, their personality can change very quickly. Most bobcats that live in a domesticated setting show signs of aggression very quickly and without any warning. This can cause serious injury to the owners and other pets living at the same location.

Bobcats hunt in the wild. They eat meat and enjoy hunting for their meals. No matter how much your think a bobcat has become domesticated, if a small dog, rabbit, or other small animal runs past them quickly, the bobcat's natural instinct to hunt will take over and they can very easily cause harm to another animal.

Many people are unaware of a stinky fact that comes along with owning a bobcat. Bobcats spray excessively, which emit's a very strong odor. You cannot control the spraying or teach them not to do it. Spraying is part of their natural instincts that can not be taken away.

Because bobcats thrive in their natural environments, they cannot be kept indoors or they will suffer from a caged in feeling. They will destroy your house and become very aggravated, which usually results in them lashing out at their owners and others who come near them. Bobcats need to have a large outdoor enclosure where they can enjoy their space. Their outdoor enclosure needs to mimic that of their natural environment to keep the bobcats content while in captivity.

References:

"Bobcats" ExoticCatz.com
"Exotics as Pets" Blackpineanimalpark.com