How to Buy a Pet Tiger

By eHow Pets Editor

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Many people are intrigued by the idea of having a large cat, like a tiger, as a pet. Factors such as their size, natural tendencies and expense should be kept in mind when thinking of buying a tiger. Certain regulations also need to be followed in order for a private individual to own a tiger.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Learn the local, state and federal laws and restrictions surrounding tiger ownership. The Captive Wildlife Safety Act of 2004 prohibits the interstate or foreign trade of exotic cats but it does not specifically outlaw private ownership.

Step2

Consider the practical aspects of having a pet tiger. You will need to find a veterinarian who will treat your big cat, have access to large quantities of raw meat, have a cage and space large enough for your tiger and be able to provide physical and intellectual enrichment activities. Plan ahead for these aspects of owning a pet tiger before buying one.

Step3

Research the care, feeding and other factors relating to having a pet tiger. Many big cats suffer abuse and neglect because their owners were not prepared to care for them correctly. Make the commitment to care for your pet properly before searching for one to buy.

Step4

Search for a reputable breeder online or through an exotic pet show. Contact other tiger owners for information on where they bought their pet tiger from. You can also try contacting exotic pet trainers and handlers for recommendations.

Step5

Subscribe to and read the Animal Finder’s Guide, a trade publication for exotic dealers and animal breeders. You may find pet tigers listed for sale.

Step6

Meet the tiger for sale in person and decide if he or she is a good match for you. Talk to the breeder or owner about temperament, personality and habits.

Tips & Warnings

Always follow local, state and federal regulations and laws for exotic pet ownership.
If you decide that actual pet ownership is not for you after researching the topic, think about “adopting” one. Many zoos, animal rescues and conservation organizations accept donations to help care for the big cats and will provide you with pictures and information in return.

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Comments

ns2776 said

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on 7/5/2008 PLEASE do not purchase a large cat! Besides the incredible cost involved in feeding and maintaining such a huge animal, consider the safety risk. Large cats are NEVER 100% tame, and thus always pose a risk. Why would you want an animal that is capable, with the greatest of ease, of killing you. Moreover, what if this animal escapes. Look at the number of everday pets that manage to escape from their owners.

Moreover, chances are anyone thinking of getting a large cat are doing so to show off. Hence, if you are unfortunate and the cat escapes and claims someones life, finding the owner will not be too hard. Why? Because plenty of people will know that you are the guy or gal who owns a tiger, lion, etc.

Just don't do it. If you do and you find that owning this animal is far more than you bargained for, well the SPCA is not an option. And most sanctuary's are so overloaded with anim

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