Having a big cat - lion, tiger, cheetah, leopard, jaguar, bobcat or cougar - for a pet sounds really cool. Big cats are cute and cuddly as cubs and regal as adults. Walking a large feline and playing with a cub is surely lots of fun. What's more, none of your friends have one. So why think twice before nagging mom and dad? Here are a few reasons why

• Big cats are expensive pets. They cost lots of money to buy. They are expensive to feed. Their custom cages are costly.
• Big cats aren't domestic felines. They have sharp claws and teeth. They are difficult to handle. They can be destructive.
• Big cats are a lot of work. They require special training. They need special toys. They need lots of mental stimulation.
• Big cats require lots of space. They need lots of room to move. They require space beyond their cage.
• Big cats make big messes. They spray urine. They leave a musky odor.
• Big cats require special medical care. They need special vaccinations. Not all vets are willing or prepared to care for lions, tigers, cheetahs, leopards, jaguars, bobcats and cougars.
• Its illegal to keep big cats as pets in many places. Special permits are required in those places that allow big cat ownership.