B.C. moves to ban ownership of exotic cat breeds

British Columbia is advancing changes to its Wildlife Act that would ban the breeding, transport and ownership of nonnative cat species. The new rules fall under the Controlled Alien Species Regulations and would require permits for anyone who wants to possess, breed or move prohibited animals. The province says exotic cats can pose risks to wildlife and public safety because of their hunting abilities, and may also damage vegetation and nesting areas. Species covered by the regulations include servals, caracals, ocelots, European and African wildcats, Asian golden cats, fishing cats, jungle cats, marbled cats and certain hybrid cats. Current owners would need to apply for a permit by May 1, 2027 to keep their animals, and they would have to show proof of proper care, identification and sterilization. Permit holders would also have to limit public contact. The BC SPCA supports the move, saying these animals cannot properly express natural behaviors in captivity and referencing a 2019 case involving 13 serval cats in the B.C. interior.