The Biggest Cat You Can Legally Own
For feline enthusiasts hoping to bring a touch of the wild into their homes, knowing the limits of the law is essential. Various exotic cat breeds appeal to pet lovers who crave something a little less ordinary than a domestic tabby. However, legal restrictions play a large part in determining which breeds are available for ownership. So, what's the biggest cat you can legally own?
Understanding Legal Restrictions
Whether you can own a large cat depends on several factors:
- Local and state laws
- Federal regulations
- Animal welfare and safety laws
- Permitting and licensing requirements
Some states allow ownership of exotic felines under special permits, while others have outright bans.
What Counts as ‘Big’?
The term 'big cat' typically refers to wild felines like lions, tigers, leopards, and cougars. Unfortunately, owning these true wild cats is heavily restricted or prohibited in many places due to concerns about safety, conservation, and ethical animal treatment. Instead, exotic hybrids and domesticated breeds resembling wild cats offer a legal alternative.
Top Legal Large Cat Breeds
Here are some of the biggest cat breeds you can legally own without venturing into illegal or dangerous territory:
- Savannah Cat — A hybrid between a domestic cat and the African serval, Savannah cats are the largest breed you can typically legally own. F1 and F2 generations are more exotic and larger, with weights up to 25 pounds and lengths of over 2 feet. Their legal status varies; some areas ban early-generation Savannahs.
- Maine Coon — Known as the gentle giant of the domestic cat world, Maine Coons can weigh between 15–25 pounds and are widely legal. Despite their size, they are fully domestic and lack any wild ancestry.
- Chausie — Another hybrid between the Jungle Cat and a domestic breed, Chausies can reach 25 pounds. They're intelligent, active, and legal under many jurisdictions, but check for specific hybrid restrictions.
- Norwegian Forest Cat — Weighing up to 18 pounds with a long, muscular build, this breed is domesticated and fully legal in all 50 U.S. states.
- Ragdoll — Large yet relaxed, Ragdolls can weigh up to 20 pounds. They are domesticated and legal everywhere.
Hybrids and Exotic Laws
Hybrid breeds, such as the Savannah and Chausie, often fall into gray legal areas because their wild ancestry raises red flags for regulatory agencies. Most laws distinguish between:
- F1–F4 Generations: Early generations closer to wild ancestry are more restricted.
- F5 and later: Typically considered domesticated for legal purposes.
Ownership often requires special permits, fencing, veterinary care plans, and compliance with local animal welfare standards.
States with Strict Laws
If you live in any of these areas, exotic cat ownership—especially for hybrids like Savannahs—may be off the table:
- New York: Bans F1–F4 Savannah cats
- California: Prohibits most hybrids entirely
- Hawaii: Strictly bans exotic species, including all hybrid cats
- Georgia: Requires permits, with many restrictions
Ethical and Practical Considerations
Before purchasing a large cat breed, consider the following:
- Veterinary Access: Not all vets are trained to handle hybrids.
- Feeding Requirements: Exotic breeds may need raw meat diets and specialized care.
- Social Needs: Many large breeds are active and demand significant attention.
- Lifespan: These cats often live 12–20 years, requiring long-term commitment.
It’s also worth evaluating which breeders you choose to purchase from. Reputable breeders will provide health screenings, generation data, and genetic information.
Conclusion
While you can't bring a tiger into your home legally, you still have options if you're seeking a large and exotic-looking feline companion. The Savannah cat—especially earlier generations—is typically the largest legally owned cat in many states, though regulations vary by location. Always consult your local animal control office or wildlife authority to confirm specific laws before adopting any exotic pet.
