Having a wild pet is the dream of almost every pet parent like you. When it comes to cats, many cat parents want to fulfil their dream by having Caracal, a wild cat species, as a pet. But like most of them, you must also be confused about – Are caracal cats legal? Are caracal cats dangerous? Can you have a caracal as a pet? And much more…To answer your first question – the legalisation of having Caracal as a pet differs according to the location. To get the answers to all the other questions, clear your confusion and get the basic knowledge of Caracal, keep reading this blog till the end.
Know About Caracal
Caracal is a small wild cat species and just like any other wild animal, it’s messy and aggressive in nature. It is found in Central Asia, India, the Middle East, and Africa. You will find it in reddish-brown to tawny to gold in colour with big ears, long legs, and large, tufted ears.
The caracal weighs around 25 to 40 pounds and can grow up to 3.5 feet. You will find them mostly either hunting or living alone. After ten months of the birth, caracal leaves their mothers. They live approx 12 years in the wild alone.
Now, to answer your question, are caracal cats dangerous? The answer is yes. Caracals are wild animals, so wildlife experts strongly deny keeping them as pets irrespective of their legalisation in your location. Caracals are not best fit as pets, but they are meant to live freely in the wild.
Having Caracal Pet as a Pet
Having Caracal as a pet requires a completely new routine and housing requirements than having a domestic cat. The way of having Caracal as a pet is also very different from having a domestic pet. Also, from fulfilling their food habits to their living habits, you end up spending more money.
You have to work closely with a veterinarian to create a nutritious plan for Caracal cat. They need way more protein and meat than domestic cats and their diet should be completely balanced. They don’t bond with humans in the same friendly way as domestic cats do. Their aggressive behaviour can be visible at any time and more so during breeding season. They miss their wild origins for the longest time.
You may also find your clothes, furniture and other things destroyed at any moment because of their sudden wild behaviour. This leads to additional expenses in your budget.
Legal Consideration for Caracals
Although in most of the states, keeping wild animals such as caracal as a pet is illegal, in some states, it may be permitted with special sanctions or licenses. Make sure you follow those given procedures. While the legalisation of owning Caracal as a pet differs, many wildlife experts encourage not keeping Caracal cats as pets because of their wild behaviours and considering your safety. So, before choosing between keeping Caracal as per, think wisely.
Fun Facts About Caracals as Pet
- Caracal cats are also known as Desert lynx.
- They are more active when the temperature is low and lazy when the temperature is high.
- They have the same habit of purring when feeling content as domestic cats.
- They enjoy sneaking up on their prey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are caracal pet good pets?
No. Caracals are wild which makes them not good pets.
Is it legal to have a pet caracal?
It depends on your state.
Why do caracals hiss at owners?
For them, this is the way to communicate with their owners.
How much do caracals cost?
A caracal cat costs between $1700 to $2800.
Are caracals aggressive to humans?
No. They are aggressive towards humans only when they feel threatened.
What is the lifespan of a caracal?
Caracal cats live up to 12 years in the wild and up to 17 years under human care.
What does a caracal cat eat?
Their primary source of food is birds, small antelopes, and rodents.
Can caracals breed with domestic cats?
Yes.
