Huge win for exotic cats in British Columbia! The province has passed an exotic cat ban that prohibits the breeding and future ownership of all exotic cats. This move aims to protect public safety, the environment, and the well-being of these wild animals.
This victory comes after Animal Justice and our supporters urged BC to ban the captivity of exotic cats during a critical consultation period for this campaign, led by the BC SPCA.
Protecting Exotic Cats in BC
Prior to the new exotic cat ban, BC protected some species from captivity, but not all of them. For example, the province prohibited private ownership of big cats like lions and tigers, but it was still legal to keep, breed, and sell many wild cats like servals, leopard cats, ocelots, and caracals. These cats are wild animals who are not native to BC. They have complex physical and psychological needs that cannot be met in most captive conditions.
In the wild, these cats roam vast distances and hunt daily. They climb trees and live in rich, stimulating environments. When kept in homes and private collections, they are denied the space, freedom, and autonomy they need to thrive. As a result, they often suffer from extreme stress, frustration, and poor well-being. Their natural instincts—like climbing, hunting, and marking territories—cannot be fulfilled in cages or living rooms.
The Dangers of Exotic Cats in Captivity
Keeping exotic cats in captivity is both cruel and dangerous. Escapes are all too common and when they happen, the cats often face injury or death. They can also attack companion animals, harm people, and threaten native wildlife.
Some people keep exotic cats for novelty or profit. However, no personal interest should outweigh animal welfare or public safety. We are grateful that the BC government listened to its residents and passed strong laws to protect exotic cats from captive cruelty. We hope other provinces swiftly follow suit!
