Serval Legal States 2023

Serval cats are wild, African-native cats. They are larger than domestic house cats at almost two feet long and range from 20 to 40 pounds when fully grown. They have a lifespan of up to 22 years. Because they are wild animals, they are illegal to own in all states. Some states make owning them as pets illegal, while others require certain permits or inspections.

In What States Are Serval Cats Legal to Own?

Eight states allow residents to own serval cats without obtaining a permit. You are free to own a serval cat in Alabama, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Twenty-one additional states allow you to own a serval cat if you meet certain requirements. All of these states require you to apply for a permit. This process may include an inspection to make sure the proper living arrangements have been made for your future pet. These states include Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas, Vermont, and West Virginia.

In the remaining states (Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Utah, and Virginia), it is illegal to own a serval cat.

Do Serval Cats Make Good Pets?

Because serval cats are wild, they are not as ideal as domesticated cats as pets. They can bond with a person but are not good for families with children or other pets. This means that they are best if you are an individual who lives alone. Because they are so large and have a high need for activity, they also would not be good pets for those who live in cities or smaller homes without outdoor access.

Serval cats have been bred with domestic cats to produce a Savannah cat. These are easier to care for and more similar to domestic cats for those looking for a unique-looking pet without the extra effort of caring for a wild animal.

Taking Care of a Serval Cat

Serval cats require space of their own outside. Because they have the ability to jump high into the air and use their long legs for digging, a tall enclosure that extends underground is required. It should have a pool of water your serval cat can drink and swim in.

Serval cats cannot be litter trained. Combined with their jumping and digging tendencies, they are unsuitable as indoor pets. They are not affectionate like domestic cats can be and do not like to be pet or cuddled. Therefore, trying to keep them inside to bond will only lead to broken objects, messes, and unhappy pets.

Being outside will also give the serval cat a chance to hunt for prey. Their diet should be mostly made up of animals such as rodents, birds, fish, and frogs.