It is first of all, most important to know that Ocelots are illegal in most states either because they are rare or endangered and their habitat is widely diminished. So checking in with your country codes isn’t a bad idea before venturing into getting your wildcat. Let’s know About the Ocelot.
Ocelots (Leopardus pardalis) is the largest wild cat living in North and Central America. They can grow to 1.5 to 4 feet long, with an average length of 2.5 feet. Their color pattern is usually dark brown or blackish brown patches, gray-brown spots and stripes, and cream-colored underparts. They have small rounded ears that fold forward over the face when they stalk prey. An ocelot has a long body with large paws that are used for climbing trees to ambush their prey. The ocelot is one of the most mysterious and beautiful cats on the planet. They are known for their elusive nature, so it’s understandable that some people think of these cats as mythical. But what kind of animal are they really and how much does an ocelot cost?
Ocelots are a very expensive animal to keep. They require a large space and lots of attention, which can be costly both in terms of money and time.
The most common way to purchase an ocelot is from a breeder or pet store that has one for sale. If you want to get one for free, many rescue organizations will take them in and find them homes. Ocelots are an endangered species because their habitats are being exploited to develop farms and living places, making them retreat further away from civilization.
If you’re serious about owning an ocelot, make sure you know the financial commitment that comes with it.
The Cost and Factors to Consider.
At $1,000 – $15,000 per Ocelot, it’s not unusual to see these beautiful cats sell for more than some other exotic cats or even some purebreds. The price mainly depends on several factors:
- Age – Generally speaking, the younger they are when they are sold into captivity (around 2 years old) the more expensive they will be because they don’t have any experience with being around people yet. Ocelots tend to live up to 20 years old.
- Size – Bigger cats tend to command higher prices than smaller ones because they have more room to roam around inside their enclosure and make noise when they move around; therefore attracting more attention from potential buyers. They also lack the need for basic training like cleaning up.
- You’ll need a certified trainer to help you take care of your ocelot. It’s important to remember that these cats are still regarded as wild animals so it’s advisable to be well equipped.
- Food for an ocelot costs about $150-$350 each month, depending on size and age. Like other cats, Ocelots are carnivores. This means their diets should consist of mostly organic meats, taurine, and calcium. In the wild, their prey includes rodents(rats, mice, rabbits), fish, and even reptiles and amphibians like frogs, toads, and iguanas.
- Vet bills are unpredictable and expensive. Not a lot of vets are well equipped with the knowledge of Ocelot care, seeing as they’re not as opportune to work with one during their career. Most vets don’t even agree to treat ocelots.
- Habitat – These big felines are creatures of the outdoors, so their living space should be taken into consideration.
Disadvantages of Owning One.
While ocelots have an endearing appearance and captivating qualities, all good things come with the bad. These cats are also known on many accounts to be extremely volatile and unpredictable. There are huge tendencies of them to mark their territories on furniture and appliances, scratching up said furniture, and even treating other pets as prey. They are extremely territorial and are nocturnal(active at night). Ocelots have naturally strong jaws and curious nature, making them want to bite down on nearly everything, including things that would be considered harmful to their digestive system like toys, batteries, poisonous plants, rubber, metal, plastic, etc.
Furthermore, while being the elusive creatures they are, they’ll likely not show any signs of pain or discomfort until it’s too late or close. You might not notice these signs in time.
And sadly, permits for the animal only cover you and your residence. Meaning you can’t take the pet out unless it’s to and from the vet. You also can’t hire a sitter for the ocelot since the permit covers yourself specifically. Bummer. And breaking any of these laws attracts a heavy fine. They are even likely to put you in the hospital, due to their wild, instinctual nature.
So there you have it, everything you could ever need to know about ocelots. They can make good pets if you are willing to invest the time and effort needed to raise them properly. Their price tag is a hefty one, but if your heart is set on having an ocelot it will be worth the money and effort in the long run. You will likely see an increase in popularity for Ocelots as time goes on as well. The National Zoo has a pair of them living there, and they are planning to create a breeding facility. Ocelots are unique pets with a lot of personalities, so, likely, interest will only grow.
