If you think you can own any cat breed as long as you’ve got the cash and a scratching post, think again. Some breeds are so wild, rare, or dangerous that they’re banned in certain countries and states. Whether it’s their size, aggression, or exotic DNA, these felines are off-limits—unless you want to get into serious legal trouble.
1. Savannah Cat
A cross between a domestic cat and a serval, the Savannah cat looks like a sleek house cat on steroids. But don’t let that fool you—these energetic, high-jumping, and sometimes aggressive cats are banned in at least 10 U.S. states and restricted in Australia and Canada. Apparently, not everyone thinks having a mini cheetah jumping around their living room is a good idea.
2. Bengal Cat
With their striking leopard-like coats, Bengal cats scream “exotic.” But they also retain strong hunting instincts—which is why they’re banned in places like New York City and Hawaii. Some jurisdictions only allow Bengals if they’re at least four generations removed from wild ancestors. So, unless you want to deal with permits and paperwork, maybe just get a tabby.
3. Chausie
The Chausie is part jungle cat, part domestic cat, and entirely a handful. These cats are huge, weighing up to 30 pounds, and they require a ton of space and stimulation. They’re restricted in many U.S. states and illegal in Australia and New Zealand, mostly because they’re too wild to be considered proper pets.
4. Caracat
A cross between a Caracal (wild desert cat) and a domestic cat, the Caracat is rare, expensive, and—surprise—illegal in many places. With their long ears, striking eyes, and unpredictable behavior, Caracats are more like mini panthers than house cats.
5. Serval
Servals are 100% wild cats, and owning one is basically like inviting chaos into your home. They’re fast, strong, and independent, making them unsuitable as pets. Most places, including Australia, the UK, and several U.S. states, don’t allow them unless you have a special wildlife license.
6. Geoffroy’s Cat
Geoffroy’s Cat is a small wild feline from South America that looks like a house cat but is completely untamable. They’re aggressive, nocturnal, and don’t do well in captivity—which is why they’re banned as pets in most countries, including the U.S. and UK.
7. Ocelot
Once a status symbol among the rich, ocelots are now illegal to own in most of the world. Their stunning fur made them a target for hunting, and even though they’re not endangered anymore, they still don’t belong in homes.
8. Margay
Margays look like tiny leopards, but don’t be fooled—these cats are arboreal ninjas that can climb down trees headfirst and leap between branches like squirrels. Keeping them as pets is nearly impossible, and they’re banned worldwide due to conservation laws.
9. Asian Leopard Cat
This is the actual wild cat that Bengals were bred from, and unlike Bengals, the Asian Leopard Cat is NOT meant to be a pet. These cats are solitary, skittish, and hard to tame, which is why they’re illegal in most U.S. states, Australia, and the UK.
10. Cheetoh
A mix between a Bengal and an Ocicat, the Cheetoh cat is technically domestic but is still banned in some places due to its strong predatory instincts. They’re playful, intelligent, and incredibly active—but in states with strict hybrid laws, they’re a no-go.
11. The Fishing Cat
Most cats hate water, but not the Fishing Cat. Native to South and Southeast Asia, this wild feline is an expert swimmer that hunts fish, frogs, and even small alligators. It’s illegal to own in most countries because it’s classified as a vulnerable species, meaning it needs protection, not a life in someone’s backyard.
Stick to the Domesticated Ones
Exotic cats may look cool, but there’s a reason they aren’t legal pets. They’re unpredictable, require huge amounts of space, and can be a nightmare to care for. If you want a striking-looking cat, go for a Maine Coon, Abyssinian, or even a Bengal (where legal). Your furniture and local wildlife will thank you.
