2011 FCF Convention: Meeting Owners of Small Wildcats

This year’s FCF (Feline Conservation Federation) Convention took place in sunny Orlando, FL in June. It was an interesting few days of meeting other conservation enthusiasts and learning more about the issues surrounding the care and preservation of our feline friends. I learned so much, but also came away with more questions which, once answered, will further define my stance and how I choose to participate in this important cause. I love how a diverse group of people can come together to work toward a common goal.

One of my favorite parts of the convention was meeting owners of small wildcats, who truly adore the felines in their care.

One gentleman and his wife own two beloved bobcats in addition to their housecats. His wife stayed home with the feline kids while he came to the conference, and oh how he loved to talk about his cats’ antics! Signs that his cats are in a good home:

• They are well-pampered with toys, treats, and love.
• They live on a rural acreage, and get to roam between the cozy indoors and the great outdoors.
• They delight in playing outside especially in the winter. And this kitty joy delights their owners!
• Their humans are attuned to their distinct personalities, health needs, tastes, and preferred pasttimes.
• One of the things the gentleman I talked with enjoys most about Sundays is a nap in his favorite chair, surrounded by his bobcats & housecats.

It was heartwarming to hear him speak so kindly and passionately about his animals. All captive animals should be so blessed!

The ones pictured below sure are! Another owner of small wildcats who I especially enjoyed visiting with, Billie, shared pictures of her brood, and gave me permission to do the same! She adores her cats, both wild and domestic, and it shows. Check out the pics and you’ll see what I mean.

Sally the Caracal:

All of Billie’s wildcats have the freedom to move between the indoors of Billie’s lovely home, and their spacious outdoor enclosures. Sally shows us how it’s done:

Bosoi the Serval:

Such a regal fellow, isn’t he!

Bobcats Grant & Gracie, when Grant was just a wee tyke:

Enrichment for Gracie & the grown-up Grant:

Doesn’t that look like fun?!  (The “victim” between them is just a feather duster ) Check out how different their markings are, even though they are both bobcats!

Gracie & Grant mingle with the domestics:

I’ll be filling at least a couple more blog entries with pics & highlights of the fun we had at the convention, so stay tuned!

Photos courtesy of devoted and admirable wildcat owner Billie Lambert.