Owning a bobcat can be a rewarding experience, but it requires a lifetime commitment to responsible ownership. By nature, bobcats are not domesticated animals, so owners must cater to this creature's natural predatory instincts and habitat.
Instructions
Prepare to Own a Pet Bobcat
1. Learn everything you can about owning a bobcat as a pet. Talk to others who own bobcats for insight. Research habits, behavior, needs and care requirements before bringing home your pet bobcat.
2. Research the laws and regulations for the area. While most homeowners can bring home a domesticated housecat or dog anytime they please, bobcats are an exception. Local laws and regulations may prohibit the containment of an exotic animal.
3. Visit the town zoning office for information on housing a pet bobcat. The residential area where you reside may not be properly zoned for such an animal. Check with zoning prior to making arrangements to bring home your bobcat.
4. Secure the licenses required for owning a pet bobcat prior to brining him or her home.
5. Prepare proper housing for your bobcat. Unlike a dog or housecat, bobcats cannot be given a 4 foot by 2 foot area and live happily ever after. Bobcats like to climb trees and need room to exercise. Since you will not be walking your bobcat, there needs to be plenty of room within the housing you provide for your bobcat to stretch its legs.
6. Be ready to make a lifetime commitment. Once obtained, you may not be able to find a new home for the bobcat if necessary. With the increase in exotic animal ownership in the past several years, animal rescues and sanctuaries have become unable to help owners who no longer wish to own their bobcats.
7. Secure a food provider and set up storage. Whether you decide to feed prepackaged commercial food, live prey or a combination of both, you need a supplier and storage for food deliveries. Storage may require a large freezer or a holding cage for live animals.
8. Arrange care with a veterinarian who is willing to treat your bobcat. Be ready to provide transportation to and from the veterinarian clinic, or make provisions for the veterinarian to visit your bobcat.
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