How to Tan a Bobcat Pelt
Bobcats pelts are commonly used in taxidermy. Many furriers purchase the whole animal, or the tanned bobcat pelt. Skinning a bobcat is a task that must be done carefully to avoid ruining the pelt. It typically takes a few tries before this skill is fully developed, and patience is a definite requirement. Once the skin has been removed, the tanning process can begin.
Instructions
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Start with a freshly skinned bobcat pelt. Older pelts will not be pliable, and tanning an older pelt is nearly impossible.
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Flesh the pelt. Using a fleshing knife, start at one end of the pelt and begin removing any excess flesh and meat from the pelt. This is a delicate and time-consuming process. Use small, controlled movements to separate the tissue from the pelt.
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Salt the pelt from end to end. Layer non-iodized salt on the flesh side of the pelt, covering it completely. You should have a layer of salt at least 1/2-inch thick when you are done.
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Let the pelt cure for at least eight hours, preferably 12. This will give the salt enough time to cure the pelt, and the tanning process will begin. Do not rush this process.
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Shake off the salt from the pelt. You may need to scrape it in some areas. Remove all of the excess salt before proceeding.
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Re-salt the pelt. Cover the flesh side of the pelt with 1/2 inch of salt, and let it sit for another 12 hours. Remove the salt once this time has elapsed.
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Dry the pelt. The pelt should be hung in a cool and dry place until it is dry. The amount of time it can take to thoroughly dry will depend on conditions, but it should take approximately one week. The pelt can now be used for fur, or for a taxidermy mount.
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References
- Photo Credit bobcat spring image by Kolett from Fotolia.com
