The Wildcat Sanctuary, located in Sandstone, MN, helped rescue 24 exotic cats from a home in Texas. The sanctuary spearheaded the rescue efforts. The exotic cats were saved from a Texas home after the death of their previous keeper. At the home, they were found living in conditions described as “deplorable” by authorities. Of the 24 exotic cats rescued, three were kittens. One exotic cat had previously had a leg amputated. The 24 rescued exotic cats were identified as Asian leopard cats.

Source: FOX 26 Houston/YouTube

The cats were previously living in Texas. After the recent death of their caretaker, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) asked The Wildcat Sanctuary to help with the care and re-homing of the wild cats. The cats had previously been living in unsuitable conditions. 

After authorities stepped in, the cats entered the care of the Houston SPCA. There, all of the cats received necessary veterinary care. Domestic Bengal cats rescued from the same home will eventually become available for adoption. Staff from The Wildcat Sanctuary flew to Texas to assist with the care of the exotic cats. They coordinated with other wildlife sanctuaries to find homes for the wild Asian leopard cats. 

The Wildcat Sanctuary will provide a permanent home to eight of the rescued exotic cats. The cats will be moved to Sandstone, MN where the sanctuary is located. There, they will live in spacious habitats that replicate their natural environment. The Wildcat Sanctuary relies on donations for funding and does not offer viewings or tours. This allows the sanctuary’s feline residents to live under conditions that mimic their natural state as closely as possible. 

In a press statement the founder of The Wildcat Sanctuary, Tammy Thies, decries the increasing occurrence of situations such as this. She states that “Breeding and purchasing of Asian leopard cats and other wild cats is fueled by social media since they have an exotic look.” Since the breeding and sale of these cats can be a lucrative business, exotic cats such as Asian leopard cats may enter homes that are unable to care for them. 

Since they are NOT domestic cats, they may exhibit unwanted behaviors that cause them to be unceremoniously abandoned or abused by the people who purchase them. Remember, exotic animals are not domesticated and are not suitable for home environments. They require specialized care and habitats. However, there are millions of domesticated dogs and cats desperately looking for loving homes. 

Additionally, sanctuaries such as The Wildcat Sanctuary may become pressed for space as demand for exotic animals continues. Since they rely on donations for funding, they can quickly run out of space in which to house animals in need. Currently, The Wildcat Sanctuary is at capacity. They greatly appreciate any donations, which can be made here.

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