Posted by justin8745 on November 11, 2002 at 15:43:08:
After seeing an old friend, and the bobcat he has kept as a pet for some time now, I was awakened to the world of "exotic" type cats and animals as pets. I am thrilled at the beauty and intelligence of servals and caracals particularly, and also attracted to their size, one of the chief reasons I have had dogs my entire life. My dog passed away at 13 years old several months ago, and I have been looking into taking in a serval or some such cat as a new companion. I am able to find little information, though, and this seems to be the best place to start. So I write to you all asking for advice. I live alone in a spacious 2-story house, all of which would be free for the cat to roam about in. I have quite a bit of spare time, and work out of house one or two days a week.My yard is currently not fenced, but I am more than willing to do so if necessary. I had always walked or ran with my dogs, rather than cutting them loose in the yard. Do cats like these go for "walks?" What sort and size would be best suited to me? Are certain types of cat better suited to first-time exotic owners, due to temperament/social complexity/etc.? Also, I have heard stories of varying degrees of success in regards to litter-training the kittens...are certain species more reliable than others?
Forgive the lengthy post, but I am very curious and very attracted to all of these beautiful cats...I will be around here every day eagerly awaiting any responses you folks may have to offer. If you prefer, feel free to contact me via email.
Justin
jshyne517@aol.com
