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Best Exotic Cats To Own (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a new pet and want to add a touch of wild to your life, exotic cats may be the perfect addition to your household. Owning an exotic cat comes with a level of responsibility, so it’s important to consider several factors before making the decision to bring one home.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to research the laws and regulations in your area regarding the ownership of exotic animals. Some states have strict laws and require permits, while others have banned exotic pet ownership altogether. It’s also important to consider the long-term financial commitment of owning an exotic cat, as they can come with expensive veterinary bills, specialized diets, and equipment.

Before deciding on an exotic cat, it’s important to ask yourself some important questions. Do you have experience with cats and their behaviors? Will you be able to provide the space and care necessary for an exotic breed? Are you physically capable of handling a potentially large and powerful animal? By considering these questions and doing thorough research, you can ensure that you make an informed decision and provide the best possible care for your new furry friend.

In conclusion, owning an exotic cat can be a unique and rewarding experience. However, it’s crucial to consider the legal and financial responsibilities, as well as your own experience and capabilities, before making the decision to bring one home. By doing so, you can provide a loving home for an exotic cat while also ensuring their health and well-being.

10 Best Exotic Cats To Own

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for entertaining indoor cats with an interactive and rechargeable toy, featuring seven holes and feather refills.
2
Ideal for providing a safe and spacious outdoor shelter for feral cats with weather protection and multiple ledges.
3
The product is ideal for cat owners who want to learn about their cat's breed, health, and traits through DNA testing.
4
This product is ideal for pet owners who want to provide interactive and stimulating playtime for their indoor cats, kittens, and dogs.
5
Ideal for entertaining and exercising indoor cats with fluttering butterfly, ambush feather, catnip ball, and dual power supply features.
6
This product is ideal for controlling odors and waste from multiple cats with an unscented formula.
7
The product is ideal for providing indoor entertainment for cats with automated and interactive features.
8
Ideal for individuals who want a lifelike interactive companion pet resembling a silver cat with white mitts.
9
Ideal for providing a cozy sleeping spot and entertainment for cats.
10
The product is ideal for providing interactive and stimulating exercise for indoor cats or kittens with a feather.
The product is ideal for entertaining indoor cats with an interactive and rechargeable toy, featuring seven holes and feather refills.
Ideal for providing a safe and spacious outdoor shelter for feral cats with weather protection and multiple ledges.
The product is ideal for cat owners who want to learn about their cat's breed, health, and traits through DNA testing.
This product is ideal for pet owners who want to provide interactive and stimulating playtime for their indoor cats, kittens, and dogs.
Ideal for entertaining and exercising indoor cats with fluttering butterfly, ambush feather, catnip ball, and dual power supply features.
This product is ideal for controlling odors and waste from multiple cats with an unscented formula.
The product is ideal for providing indoor entertainment for cats with automated and interactive features.
Ideal for individuals who want a lifelike interactive companion pet resembling a silver cat with white mitts.
Ideal for providing a cozy sleeping spot and entertainment for cats.
The product is ideal for providing interactive and stimulating exercise for indoor cats or kittens with a feather.

1. Smart Whack-A-Mole Toy For Indoor Cats

The 7 Hole Whack-a-Mole cat toy is designed to provide your furry friend with hours of fun and entertainment. The toy features a colorful feather that randomly pops out of one of the seven holes, which are located on the top and sides of the toy. This feature is powered by AI and ensures that the toy remains unpredictable and exciting for your cat.

In addition to the random popping feature, the toy is also equipped with a smart sensor that can detect when your cat approaches within 5 inches. This triggers the toy to automatically pop the feather in and out, providing your cat with an interactive experience. The toy also has a 5-minute auto-off feature to save battery and prevent the need for manual on and off switch controls.

The feathers used in the toy are not only colorful and attractive to cats, but also 3 times more durable than regular feathers. This ensures that the toy can withstand your cat's sharp claws and last longer. Additionally, the toy comes with 4 refill feathers, so you can easily replace them when needed.

The upgraded rechargeable battery and motor of the toy extends its lifespan to 3 times longer than other similar products on the market. Charging the toy with 5V1A for about 2 hours provides about 7 days of playtime, assuming your cat plays with the toy for about 30 minutes a day.

The cat toy is made using cat-friendly and safe materials. The innovative shallow visible holes have smooth and no sharp edges, making them safe for your cat's paws. This ultimately improves your cat's catching, swatting, and pouncing instincts, making it a great choice for indoor playtime.

Pros

  • Features a colorful feather that randomly pops out of one of the seven holes, providing an unpredictable and exciting experience for your cat.
  • Equipped with a smart sensor that detects when your cat approaches, automatically turning on the toy for interactive playtime.
  • Feathers are 3 times more durable than regular feathers and come with refills.
  • Upgraded rechargeable battery and motor extends the toy's lifespan to 3 times longer than other similar products.
  • Made using cat-friendly and safe materials with innovative shallow visible holes that have smooth and no sharp edges, improving your cat's instincts.

Cons

  • – May not be as effective for cats who are not attracted to feathers or interactive play.
  • – Smart sensor may not always work consistently or effectively depending on the cat's behavior.

2. Purrfect Palatial Outdoor Cat Shelter

Introducing the ultimate playground for your feline friends- the Cat Patio! With six large platforms, multi-layer set-up, and wide surfaces, your cats can enjoy their favorite activities all in one place. This luxurious cat cage is perfect for accommodating up to four cats and offers ample space for them to wander and play.

Constructed with durable fir wood, this cat patio is designed to withstand any clawing and scratching, making it a reliable option for a long-lasting enclosure. The roof is made of asphalt and the construction is water-resistant, ensuring your cats can enjoy the great outdoors without being affected by the elements.

The Cat Patio comes with a large door measuring 20" L x 41" W and platform dimensions of 16.25" L x 11" W. Assembly is required for the 71" L x 38.5" W x 71" H cat cage. Please note that the item arrives in two separate boxes and may not be part of the same shipment. Delivery times may vary.

Pros

  • Six large platforms with multi-layer set-up and wide surfaces
  • Accommodates up to four cats
  • Durable fir wood construction to withstand clawing and scratching
  • Water-resistant and weather-protected design
  • Large door and platform dimensions

Cons

  • – Assembly required
  • – Arrives in separate boxes

3. Purrfect Genome: Basepaws Cat Dna Test Kit.

The Basepaws Breed + Health Cat DNA Test is a comprehensive and advanced genetic test for cats. It provides cat owners with answers specific to their cat’s breed composition, traits, and health. With this test, cat owners can gain insights into their cat’s unique needs, personality, genetic predispositions, and dental health to make proactive choices that support their cat’s health and wellbeing.

The Basepaws DNA test provides analysis of a cat in relation to 21 cat breeds, along with 50 trait markers, a chromosome map, and screening of 64 health markers associated with 43 diseases. This ensures that cat owners have the most accurate and up-to-date information about their cat’s health and can take necessary measures to prevent diseases before they become life-threatening.

The DNA report also includes a free dental health report that provides cat owners with personalized at-home dental care recommendations. With around 50-90% of all adult cats having dental health issues, this test can help cat owners work with their veterinarian to limit costly dental procedures, such as tooth extractions, and implement preventative care to safeguard against diabetes, chronic kidney and heart disease, and other conditions linked to dental health.

The Basepaws Cat DNA Test is easy, fast, and impactful. Cat owners simply need to swab their cat’s cheek and send the sample back to the U.S.–based Basepaws laboratory. The report is a "living" document that updates as Basepaws grows its feline genomics database. When cat owners and their cats join the Basepaws Cat Community, they can feel good knowing that a simple swab of their cheek contributes to scientific advancements that improve the lives of ALL cats.

Overall, the Basepaws Breed + Health Cat DNA Test is a valuable investment for any cat owner who wants to gain a better understanding of their cat’s health, personality, and unique needs. With the most advanced and comprehensive cat DNA test on the market, cat owners can ensure that their furry friends live a longer, happier life.

Pros

  • Provides comprehensive and advanced genetic testing for cats
  • Offers insights into cat’s unique needs, personality, genetic predispositions, and dental health
  • Screens for 64 health markers associated with 43 diseases
  • Includes a free dental health report with personalized at-home dental care recommendations
  • Easy, fast, and impactful
  • Contributes to scientific advancements that improve the lives of ALL cats

4. Valonii Motion Activated Laser Toy For Cats

The Long Range Motion Activated laser toy is perfect for pet owners who want to keep their cats, dogs, pets, and kittens entertained. Thanks to its built-in advanced object motion sensor, the laser toy intelligently activates when it detects movement and automatically turns off after 15 minutes of playtime. The sensor can only be activated once every two hours, and its working range is from 0-160 inches. The laser toy also features two modes – fast and slow – which can be switched by quickly pressing the button. To increase the speed of the laser point, the product can be set higher. The laser head can be adjusted to different places on the base, allowing the exciting pet laser to rotate in a circling pattern across floors or walls, stimulating the natural hunting instinct of cats. The automatic rotating laser light is powered by a 1200mAh USB rechargeable battery, which provides up to two days of continuous playtime after a 2.5 hour charge. Please use a 5V/1A adapter to charge the toy. The laser toy also features a silent and durable motor that meets the requirements of amusing cats without disgusting them or their owners. With a 12-month warranty and top-quality design, this laser toy is sure to provide endless hours of fun for pets and their owners. If you encounter any issues, please contact the manufacturer for fast and friendly service.

Pros

  • Built-in advanced object motion sensor detects movement and automatically turns off after 15 minutes of playtime
  • Two modes – fast and slow – allow for customizable playtime
  • Adjustable laser head stimulates the natural hunting instinct of cats
  • 1200mAh USB rechargeable battery provides up to two days of continuous playtime
  • Silent and durable motor keeps cats entertained without disturbing them or their owners
  • 12-month warranty ensures top-quality design

5. Feline Fun 3-In-1 Interactive Toy

Introducing the 3-in-1 Versatile Cat Toy that will bring endless fun for your beloved feline friend. This engaging toy features a shooting feather that pops out randomly from different holes, a lifelike butterfly that flaps around in the air, and 4 balls in a track that your cat can bat around. The unpredictable movement of the toy stimulates your cat's natural hunting instinct, providing both physical and mental stimulation.

This smart cat toy is designed to run for 5 minutes and then stop if left alone. It then goes on standby for 4 hours, during which your cat can reactivate it with a simple touch. If left alone for more than 4 hours, the toy will automatically shut off and can be restarted by flicking the switch. The toy can be powered by 4 AA batteries (not included) or connected to a power source for your convenience. The additional power supply option, such as a mobile phone adapter, allows you to save cost and hassle from replacing batteries (adapter not included).

Your cat's safety is the top priority. This cat toy is tested against stringent standards to ensure it meets safety requirements. The shell of the toy is made of PP resin, durable and safe for cats. The feather and butterfly come with no sharp parts or edges, making it harmless for your pet. An extra shooting feather refill is included in the package, giving you more playtime with your furry friend.

Pros

  • Multiple toys in one for endless entertainment
  • Smart design that saves battery life
  • Dual power supply options for convenience
  • Provides mental and physical stimulation for cats
  • Tested for safety to give peace of mind

Cons

  • – None

6. World's Best Cat Litter Multiple Cat Unscented, 32-Pounds

The Outstanding Odor Control Cat Litter is a natural litter that helps keep your home smelling fresh and clean. It is designed to provide long-lasting odor control, ensuring that you and your cats are happy. With its quick clumping and easy scooping formula, you can clean up after multiple cats with ease. This fast-acting natural litter requires no chiseling or scraping, making clean up a breeze.

This lightweight cat litter is 99% dust-free and naturally free of silica dust, which means it offers low tracking and less mess. You and your cat can breathe easy with this dust-free litter. It is important to note that for best results, you should not mix it with a non-clumping litter.

The Outstanding Odor Control Cat Litter is pet, people, and planet-friendly. It is a naturally safe litter made from whole-kernel corn that offers no harmful chemicals and no artificial perfumes. This litter is suitable for all life stages of cats.

Pros

  • Provides long-lasting odor control
  • Quick clumping and easy scooping formula
  • 99% dust-free and low tracking
  • Naturally safe litter made from whole-kernel corn
  • Suitable for all life stages of cats

7. Feather Fury – Dual-Powered Cat Entertainment

The ORSDA 2in1 ambush interactive electronic cat toy is the perfect way to double the fun for your cat. This amazing toy has two different ways for your cat to play. First, the bright colored spinning ball zooms around the paw powered course, firing up natural hunting instincts and providing batting fun. Second, the randomly-popping and unpredictable fluffy tail and feathers ignite your cat's desire to bat, pounce and kick.

Unlike other single-functional cat toys, the ORSDA cat feather toy has four types of natural feathers with variability. These include three multicolored feathers, one purple feather, one fluffy tail, and one pearl pheasant feather. Your cat will love the rich and replaceable attachments, which will reduce boredom and keep the toy attractive for a long time.

The ORSDA cat toy has three customized modes with various speeds that suit cats of any age. The built-in 10-minute automatic shut off (each 4 hours) helps conserve battery life when your cat is ready for a nap. The smart mode automatically enters standby mode at night to ensure you and your cat's deep sleep. The toy is powered by 4 AA batteries (not included) or can be plugged in to work.

The ORSDA cat enrichment toy will help keep your indoor cat stay physically and mentally active with multiple ways to play. The hands-off ways to keep your indoor cat entertained will burn off your cat's energy and stimulate their hunting instinct. This toy is perfect for multiple cats.

The ORSDA ball tracks cat toy has smooth and thick tracking edges that ensure the safety of your cat's paws. It is the perfect gift for your fur-babies. ORSDA provides an 18-month warranty. If you receive a defective or used product, please contact them to get a satisfied solution.

Pros

  • Has two different ways for your cat to play
  • Rich and replaceable attachments
  • Three customized modes with various speeds that suit cats of any age
  • Helps keep your indoor cat stay physically and mentally active
  • Hands-off ways to keep your indoor cat entertained
  • Smooth and thick tracking edges that ensure the safety of your cat's paws
  • Comes with an 18-month warranty

8. Joy For All – Silver Cat With White Mitts – Interactive Companion Pets – Realistic & Lifelike

Introducing the revolutionary Joy For All Companion Pet Cat, a soft and cuddly pet that brings comfort, companionship, and fun to elder loved ones. It features VibraPurr technology that gives an authentic purr that sounds and feels like real purring, just like a real cat would. The cat also moves its head, body, lifts its paw, opens and closes its eyes, and opens its mouth, mimicking the movements of a real cat. The synthetic fur is soft and brushable, inspired by real feline breeds.

This Companion Pet Cat is designed using built-in sensors that respond to motion and touch, such as petting and hugging. It offers a rich experience that doesn't require any special care or feeding, much like the real cats you know and love. This makes it a perfect interactive experience for older adults living in senior communities or aging at home, their caregivers, or anyone who could use some extra company.

Winner of the Caregiver Friendly Award from Today's Caregiver two years in a row (2016 and 2017), the Joy For All Companion Pet Cat has been featured in The New York Times, People Magazine, and The Baltimore Sun. It has also been seen on CBS and The Doctors and heard on BBC Radio.

Ageless Innovation, a global company devoted to developing fun and engaging products for older adults, created the Joy For All Companion Pet Cat. Ageless Innovation is focused on creating products that promote fun, joy, and play while creating meaningful connections for aging loved ones, their families, and caregivers.

The package includes the Companion Pet Cat, with X4 1.5V C Alkaline Batteries included, and a Care Guide to ensure the best experience.

Pros

  • Features VibraPurr technology for authentic purring sound and feel
  • Moves and sounds like a real cat
  • Soft and brushable fur inspired by real feline breeds
  • Designed using built-in sensors that respond to motion and touch
  • Rich experience without requiring any special care or feeding
  • Perfect interactive experience for older adults, their caregivers, or anyone who could use some extra company
  • Winner of the Caregiver Friendly Award from Today's Caregiver two years in a row (2016 and 2017)
  • Created by Ageless Innovation, a global company devoted to developing fun and engaging products for older adults

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those who prefer real pets
  • – Requires batteries

9. Kitty City Large Cat Tunnel Bed, Cat Bed, Pop Up Bed, Cat Toys

Give your feline friend the ultimate play and nap experience with the Zip-Together Combination Play Tunnel and Cozy Cat Nap Spot. This product is a plush cat bed and a circular tunnel combined in one, perfect for cats who love to play and snooze.

The Plush Cat Bed is designed to provide ultimate comfort for your cat's all-day snooze. The circular tunnel, on the other hand, is perfect for a chase and for cats who want to hide out of sight. This product also comes with fun hanging toys to keep your cat entertained and engaged.

Measuring 39” W x 39” D x 12.5” H, this product is collapsible and easy to store, making it perfect for travel. So whether you're going on a road trip or just need to store it away, this product is a great choice.

Treat your cat to a fun and comfortable play and nap experience with the Zip-Together Combination Play Tunnel and Cozy Cat Nap Spot.

Pros

  • Combination of plush cat bed and circular tunnel for ultimate play and nap experience
  • Comes with fun hanging toys to keep your cat entertained and engaged
  • Collapsible and easy to store, making it perfect for travel

Best Exotic Cats To Own FAQs

How much does it typically cost to purchase and care for an exotic cat, and what are some of the ongoing expenses involved?

Exotic cats are undoubtedly stunning creatures that can make great pets for those who are willing to put in the effort and expense to care for them properly. However, buying and maintaining an exotic cat comes with a hefty price tag. The cost of owning an exotic cat can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars depending on the breed, age, and gender of the cat.

Apart from the initial cost of purchasing an exotic cat, there are several ongoing expenses involved in their care. These expenses include food, litter, bedding, toys, and veterinary care. Exotic cats require a special diet that is high in nutrients, and this can be expensive. Additionally, exotic cats are prone to certain health issues that require frequent check-ups and medical treatments.

Overall, the cost of owning and caring for an exotic cat can be quite high. However, the joy and companionship they bring to their owners can be priceless. It's important to do your research and ensure that you are prepared to handle the financial responsibility of owning an exotic cat before making the commitment to bring one into your home.

What are some of the most popular breeds of exotic cats that people choose to own?

When it comes to exotic cats, there are several breeds that people choose to own. One of the most popular breeds is the Bengal cat, known for its wild-looking coat and playful nature. Another popular breed is the Savannah cat, which is a hybrid of a domestic cat and a serval, a wild African cat. These cats are known for their dog-like behavior and intelligence. Another breed that has gained popularity in recent years is the Sphynx cat, which is hairless and has a unique appearance. Other exotic cat breeds that people may choose to own include the Caracal, the Russian Blue, and the Abyssinian. It's important to note that owning an exotic cat comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities, and potential owners should do their research and make sure they are prepared for the commitment before bringing one into their home.

What are some of the potential risks and challenges associated with owning an exotic cat, and how can these be mitigated?

Owning an exotic cat can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, but it also comes with its own set of risks and challenges. One of the biggest risks is the potential danger to both the owner and the public. Exotic cats are wild animals that can be unpredictable and aggressive at times. They are also capable of causing serious harm to humans and other animals. Another risk is the legal implications of owning an exotic cat. In many states, owning an exotic cat is illegal, and even in states where it is legal, there are often strict regulations and requirements that must be followed.

To mitigate these risks, it is important for potential owners to do their research and fully understand the responsibilities that come with owning an exotic cat. This includes providing proper care and nutrition, ensuring the cat has enough space to roam, and taking necessary safety precautions. It is also important to work with a reputable breeder or rescue organization that can provide guidance and support. Additionally, owners should familiarize themselves with local laws and regulations and comply with all requirements to ensure they are not breaking any laws or putting themselves and their cat at risk. Overall, owning an exotic cat can be a rewarding experience, but it is important to approach it with caution and responsibility.

What are the legal requirements for owning an exotic cat in different states or countries?

The legal requirements for owning an exotic cat vary depending on the state or country. In the United States, some states allow ownership of exotic cats with certain permits or licenses while others prohibit it completely. For example, in states like Alabama, Nevada, and Wisconsin, it is legal to own an exotic cat with a permit. However, in California and New York, it is illegal to own any type of exotic cat.

In some countries, owning an exotic cat is strictly prohibited. For instance, in the United Kingdom, it is illegal to own any species of wild cat without a special license or permit. In Australia, all exotic cat species are prohibited from importation, and it is illegal to own them as pets.

Moreover, even in states or countries where owning an exotic cat is legal, certain restrictions and regulations may apply. Some states require that owners obtain liability insurance, while others require that the cat be microchipped and have regular veterinary check-ups.

Before considering owning an exotic cat, it is important to research the legal requirements and regulations in your area to ensure that you are compliant with the law. It is also essential to take into account the welfare of the animal and ensure that you have the necessary resources and expertise to provide proper care for your exotic pet.

What kind of diet and living conditions do exotic cats need in order to thrive in a home environment?

Exotic cats require specific diet and living conditions to thrive in a home environment. These cats require a diet rich in protein, which can be obtained from sources such as raw meat, eggs, and fish. Additionally, exotic cats need to have access to clean water at all times to remain hydrated.

In terms of living conditions, exotic cats need a spacious living area that allows them to move around freely. They also require plenty of toys and scratching posts to keep them mentally stimulated and physically active. Furthermore, they need a quiet environment with minimal distractions and a comfortable sleeping area to rest.

It is also essential to provide exotic cats with regular veterinary care and ensure that they receive all necessary vaccinations. Owners should also be prepared to invest time and effort in training and socializing these cats to prevent behavioral issues.

Overall, providing a suitable diet and living conditions is crucial for the health and wellbeing of exotic cats in a home environment. It is essential to research and understand the specific needs of each exotic cat breed to ensure they thrive in their new home.

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