Serval cats are illegal to keep as pets in many places because they don't want to be a nuisance.
Published March 18, 2024, 11:07 AM ET
The serval cat is a grassland cat that lives in sub-Saharan Africa. Although servals are wild animals, some states recognize them as exotic pets. However, servals' natural wild instincts, habitat needs, and overall territorial behavior can make it difficult or dangerous to keep a serval in your home.
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Servals are larger than domestic cats, and their teeth may make you wonder, “Can a serval cat kill a human?” The research results are as follows.
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What is a serval cat?
Serval cats are wild animals that live in sub-Saharan Africa. Although these are only legal in some states, they are considered exotic pets. Servals are larger than the average domestic cat, measuring about 2 feet long and weighing between 20 and 40 pounds. spruce pet.
according to pet full, Most servals in the United States are found in zoos or cat shelters. Although they can be domesticated, they are traditionally wild animals and are not easy to care for. Owning a serval is not only difficult, but also a long-term commitment. The typical lifespan of a serval is 20 years, but according to PetMD, the average lifespan of a domestic cat is 13 to 17 years.
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Servals are not domestic animals, so they require a large habitat. These cats need space to do things they would do in the wild, such as hunting, running, and swimming. Most servals are also known for their cleverness and will run away if not given the space they need, which results in them being kept in large zoo-like cages rather than homes. So cute.
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Can serval cats kill humans?
It is possible for a serval to kill a human, but it is highly unlikely.
according to dodo, A serval cat bit a toddler in the head during a birthday party at Indiana's Potawatomi Zoo in 2018. said Susan Bass, public relations manager for Big Cat Rescue (BCR). dodo, “Even a domestic cat or dog can get hurt if you approach them from behind when they don't know you're there. When their wild instincts kick in, they can take care of their young. It can injure or kill you.”
Although servals are not typically aggressive towards humans, they are still undomesticated animals removed from their natural habitat. According to Lions, Tigers, and Bears, when their needs aren't met, they can become irritable, stressed, and more aggressive.
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If you choose to own a serval, spruce pet, It is not recommended to be near other pets or children. As carnivorous predators, servals are used to hunting their own food and can endanger other small mammals around your home, such as guinea pigs, mice, hamsters, and other rodents.
According to Carolina Tiger Rescue, servals can be dangerous to humans and pets because they are very territorial and their instincts can take over. In 2019, a dog in Ohio was attacked by a free-ranging serval cat, which was ultimately shot and killed because lawmakers didn't know if the cat was trying to attack them. , it is reported. 10WBNS.