Here’s Why It’s Illegal to Own These 16 Animals in Arizona

When I was young, I dreamed of owning a big cat, like a lion. I was just sure that if I raised one from a baby, it would love me and wouldn't hurt me.

I'm older and wiser now, and I know that most wild animals, even when they're raised by humans from birth, can cause problems and there are good reasons why you're not allowed to own any of the animals on this list in Arizona.

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Owning Big Cats in Arizona - Is it Legal?

Big cats like lions, tigers, and bobcats are beautiful, but there are good reasons why they live in zoos and sanctuaries where specially trained humans care for them.

READ: These 9 Things are Surprisingly Illegal in Arizona

These majestic creatures are illegal to own in Arizona because they can seriously hurt you or someone else. The cats require special care, which I don't have the skills or knowledge to provide, and most members of the public don't either.

Just the thought of what could happen if one of the cats escaped into my neighborhood would keep me away at night. And since they don't generally belong in my Arizona neighborhood, they could wreak havoc on local wildlife if they get loose.

Owning Smaller Wild Animals in Arizona

If I can't own a big cat in Arizona, I totally get it. But I've seen a lot of stuff on the internet with people who own smaller wild creatures, like raccoons or hedgehogs. They seem sweet and harmless enough, so is it legal to own one of these smaller critters in Arizona?

As cute as they are, raccoons are highly susceptible to rabies and other diseases. They're also considered a public nuisance because they can cause significant damage to property and local wildlife if they get out of control.

READ: 11 Illegal Baby Names in Arizona

While hedgehogs aren't as big a risk for transmitting disease, they're not native to Arizona. No one ever intends for their animal to get loose, but it happens. Introducing non-native animals into Arizona's ecosystem can have serious consequences.

Here's a list of animals that you're not allowed to own in Arizona.

Sources: Arizona Game & Fish | NCESC.com | Petshun.com | EternalPet.org |