The Unfeasibility of Domesticating Lynxes: A Wild Instincts Analysis

While the story of a pet cougar allowed for unique interactions in the 1940s, the truth is that large wild cat species like the lynx cannot be domesticated. Tamed to varying degrees, they maintain wild behaviors and physical needs that make them unsuitable pets. This article explores the challenges associated with domesticating lynxes and why they are best left in natural habitats.

The Cougar Experience in the 1940s Ranch

My father had a pet cougar in Northern California in the 1940s. Raising herding dogs alongside this magnificent cat, my father witnessed remarkable selfless actions from the cougar. A single whiff of the cat would commandeer cattle to rush into the middle of the herd, ensuring efficient and safe herding.

While the taming of such large wild cats as cougars is anecdotal, it's crucial to recognize the inherent limitations. Lynxes, like other big cats, possess instincts and behaviors that conflict with domestication. Their strength, size, and wild nature mean they require special handling and understanding by professionals. The challenges of domesticating lynxes are manifold and underscore the need for conservation and preservation efforts.

The Male Bobcat's Pet Life and Lessons

In the early 1970s, I befriended a young lady in Santa Barbara, California, who kept a male bobcat as a pet. Its early surroundings, like many other wild cats, may not have included declawing, resulting in a potent smell that permeated the room and the animal. The presence of the bobcat brought about an unusual and potent scent of urine and musk, which was certainly unpleasant.

The bobcat exhibited remarkable agility that bordered on the supernatural. The animal would start running from a dead stop, jump onto the wall, and run around the room, perfectly adhering to the walls. It performed this acrobatic act half-way up the walls without ever touching the ground—much like circus motorcycles driving inside a steel ball. This behavior, combined with its aggressive nature towards men, and the sharpness of its teeth, demonstrated the complexity of rehabilitation and the risks associated with keeping wild cats as pets. A nip from a bobcat's teeth felt like needles piercing through, but it was not a vicious attack but a clear sign that it required space and respect. Despite the occasional playful interaction, the bobcat was clearly not a traditional pet.

Grandparent's Experience with a Domestic Bobcat

My grandparents once had a pet bobcat named Sammy, which they found abandoned during some construction in northwest Utah. Sammy was never caged and had full freedom within the house. He became accustomed to humans and even rode in the dashboard with them while traveling. Sammy was even trained to use the toilet, which seemed unbelievable to most, but he was an exceptional companion for playing and interacting with young grandchildren.

However, over time, something triggered a change in Sammy's behavior. He started growling and attacking people, ultimately necessitating penning him outside. I remember walking past his cage, and he would leap at me in an attempt to get attention. This aggressive behavior led to Sammy's untimely death from an unknown cause within a few months. This unfortunate event highlights the inherent risks of domesticating wild animals and emphasizes the importance of maintaining their natural instincts and habitats.

The Conclusion: Wild Animals Should Be Left in the Wild

My experiences, whether with a pet cougar, a male bobcat, or a domesticated bobcat, all lead to one conclusion: while it is possible to tame or rehabilitate wild animals to a certain extent, their wild nature and instincts make them unsuitable as pets. These animals require specialized care and expertise, and it is crucial to respect their natural instincts and keep them in their natural habitats. This approach ensures the well-being of both the animals and the environment.

In summary, the experience with these wild cats underscores the importance of respecting the wild nature of lynxes and similar large cats. Attempts at domestication often result in behavioral challenges and health risks, making it best for such animals to remain in their natural environment, preserved and conserved for the benefit of both the animals and the ecosystem.