Iowa. Iowa’s laws are a bit more in-depth than some other states. Bengal cats in Iowa must be the fourth or later filial generation of offspring, where the first filial generation is the offspring of a domestic cat and an Asian Leopard Cat. The remaining four generations must be two domestic cats to be legal.
What Is a Bengal Cat?
Domestic cats and Asian leopard cats were crossed to create Bengal cats. Bengal cats are distinguished by their distinctive spotted or marbled coat, which has a jaguar or leopard-like appearance. Bengals are also known for being active, playful, and friendly.
Although most states and nations allow the ownership of Bengal cats, there are a few exceptions. In some states in the U. S. Bengals are prohibited because they are regarded as dangerous wild animals, similar to Hawaii. Some nations, like Australia, classify Bengals as domestic pets; however, to lawfully import them into the nation, a special import permit is needed.
Make sure Bengal cats are allowed in your state or country before deciding to get one if you’re thinking about getting one.
Domestic cats with a hybrid background (Bengals, Savannahs, & Chausies) and the “Dangerous wild animal” law in Iowa
AN ACT ENTITLING POSSESSION OF CATS DESIGNATED AS SAVANNAHS AND BENGALS LET IT PASSED BY THE STATE OF IOWA’S GENERAL ASSEMBLY: Section 1 Section 717F. Code 2013, subclause 1, paragraph b, is modified to read as follows: b An animal that is the progeny of one mentioned in paragraph “a,” another mentioned in that paragraph, or any other animal is considered a “dangerous wild animal.” It also comprises animals that are progeny of every succeeding generation. But none of the following constitutes a dangerous wild animal: (1) the progeny of a domestic dog and a wolf, or the progeny of each succeeding generation in which at least one parent is a domestic dog (2) (a) The progeny of a domestic feline and an additional felidae member categorized as a Bengal with an ancestor categorized as an Asian leopard cat, a species of Prionailurus bengalensis The first filial generation is the offspring of a domestic cat and an Asian leopard cat, and each subsequent generation is the offspring of a domestic cat. The Bengal must be the fourth or later filial generation of offspring. Senate File 247, p. 2 (b) The progeny of a domestic cat and an additional felidae member categorized as a savannah, whose ancestor was a serval, a member of the species Leptailurus serval. The savannah is required to be the fourth or later filial generation of offspring; each succeeding generation is the offspring of a domestic cat; the first filial generation is the offspring of a domestic cat and a serval.
A bill to exempt 4th generation Bengals and Savannahs (although not Chausies) from Iowa’s dangerous wild animal law in curently in the House. Senate File 247 (SF 247) This bill has passed through the Senate and is currently waiting for a vote in the House before the end of session. Direct link for most current status http://coolice.legis.state.ia.us/Cool-ICE/default.asp?Category=billinfo&Service=Billbook&menu=false&hbill=sf247
Someone shared this blog by Rep. Mary Wolfe, she explains in part why the most recent bill is dead and why domestic cats with a hybrid background are still illegal in Iowa. Politics at work!! Definitely worth a read… http://representativemarywolfe.com/2012/03/20/its-a-cat-bill-its-a-pig-bill-its-dead/
Are Bengal Cats Illegal to Own?
In certain states and nations, owning a Bengal cat is prohibited. Because of their wild heritage, they are regarded as exotic pets in many jurisdictions, where regulations apply. It’s crucial to understand your local regulations regarding Bengal cat ownership before adopting a Bengal cat.
FAQ
What states do not allow Bengal cats?
Can I have a Bengal cat as a pet?
Are Bengal cats legal in Nebraska?
Do Bengal cats need papers?