Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are powerful wild cats that are native to North and South America. While they are fascinating animals, their ownership as pets is highly controversial and heavily regulated. Some U.S. states have historically allowed private ownership of these big cats under strict legal conditions, but the laws have changed significantly in recent years. Due to safety concerns and the welfare of the animals, most states prohibit individuals from keeping mountain lions as pets.

1. Alabama

Alabama has historically had one of the most relaxed laws regarding exotic animal ownership. Unlike many states that strictly regulate or outright ban the private ownership of mountain lions, Alabama did not require specific permits for owning these wild cats. Even though ownership was technically allowed, keeping a mountain lion as a pet posed extreme risks, as these animals require vast enclosures and professional care. With the introduction of the federal Big Cat Public Safety Act, private ownership of mountain lions is now effectively banned nationwide.

2. Wisconsin

Wisconsin was another state that had relatively lenient laws regarding the private ownership of exotic animals, including mountain lions. Historically, individuals in the state could legally keep a mountain lion as a pet without obtaining a state permit, though local municipalities could enforce stricter regulations. A mountain lion requires not just space but also a diet that mimics what it would eat in the wild. While Wisconsin did not impose heavy restrictions at the state level, federal law now supersedes these regulations, making private ownership of mountain lions illegal across the United States.

3. North Carolina

North Carolina historically allowed private ownership of mountain lions, but regulations varied significantly by county. While the state itself did not impose a statewide ban, many local jurisdictions had ordinances that either prohibited or heavily regulated the ownership of dangerous wild animals. Despite these precautions, keeping a mountain lion as a pet was highly discouraged due to the challenges involved. Even though some individuals managed to legally own them in the past, the federal ban now prohibits private ownership entirely.

4. Nevada

Nevada was one of the few states where owning a mountain lion as a pet was legal without a permit in certain counties. While some areas imposed strict regulations, the state as a whole had relatively lax exotic animal laws. However, this freedom came with significant risks, as many private owners lacked the knowledge and resources to properly care for such a large and dangerous animal. Although state laws allowed ownership in the past, the enactment of the Big Cat Public Safety Act has now made private ownership illegal.

5. South Carolina

South Carolina once permitted the private ownership of mountain lions, but the state’s laws required owners to meet strict conditions. Individuals who wished to keep these wild cats as pets needed to obtain a special permit. These regulations were meant to ensure the safety of both the animals and the public, as mountain lions are not domesticated and retain their natural instincts. With the passing of federal regulations, all private ownership of mountain lions is now prohibited.

6. Oklahoma

Oklahoma was another state that previously allowed individuals to own a mountain lion with the proper permits. The state required owners to apply for a Dangerous Wild Animal permit, which mandated specific conditions for enclosures and veterinary care. These regulations aimed to minimize the risks associated with keeping such a powerful predator in captivity. While Oklahoma’s laws previously permitted ownership with restrictions, the Big Cat Public Safety Act has since banned private ownership nationwide.

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