Are Bengal Cats Legal in NY

Are Bengal Cats Legal in NY

Bengal cats are a unique breed of feline that is becoming increasingly popular. If you’re thinking of adding one to your family, you may be wondering if they are legal in New York. The answer is yes, Bengal cats are legal in NY, but there are some important things to keep in mind before bringing one home.

Keep reading to learn more about the laws governing Bengal cats in New York and find out what you need to do to ensure your new pet doesn’t get you in trouble.

 

Are Bengal Cats Legal in NY

Bengal Cat Legal in NY

If you’re thinking of getting a Bengal cat, you may be wondering if they are legal in New York. The short answer is that it depends on the generation of the Bengal cat. F1-G4 generations are regulated in New York, meaning that they can only be owned by those with special wild animal permits and licenses. However, F5 and later generations are not regulated and can be owned without restriction.  So if you’re planning on getting a Bengal cat, make sure to check what generation it is before bringing it home to New York.

 

 

Are Bengal Cats Legal in NYC

Are Bengal Cats Legal in NYC

Bengal cats are not currently legal in the city of New York. This is because they are considered a wild cat species and, as such, are not allowed to be kept as pets within city limits and the surrounding five boroughs.There has been some debate on whether or not Bengals should be classified as wild cats, as they are often bred in captivity and do not typically display the same aggressive behaviors as their wild counterparts.However, the city of New York takes a strict stance on the matter, and so Bengal cats remain illegal at this time.

 

 

Bengal Cat Laws in NY

CHAPTER 43-B
Environmental Conservation
ARTICLE 11
Fish and Wildlife

(2) Felidae and all hybrids thereof, with the exception of the species
Felis catus (domesticated and feral cats, which shall mean domesticated
cats that were formerly owned and that have been abandoned and that are no longer socialized, as well as offspring of such cats) and hybrids of
Felis catus that are registered by the American Cat Fanciers Association
or the International Cat Association provided that such cats be without
any wild felid parentage for a minimum of five generations,

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/ENV/11-0103

 

Bengal Cat Laws in NYC

NYC laws prohibits the ownership of all hybrid cats.

All cats other than domesticated cats ( Felis catus ), including, but not limited to, lion, tiger, leopard, ocelot, jaguar, puma, panther, mountain lion, cheetah, wild cat, cougar, bobcat, lynx, serval, caracal, jaguarundi, margay and any hybrid offspring of a wild cat and domesticated cat.

Mark Young
Mark has worked with a wide range animals for over 10 years, and he regularly volunteers at his local animal shelter. Mark has decided to share his years of knowledge by writing helpful guides for both new and experienced pet owners