Owning a PET SAND CAT (!!!), Here's What It's Like

This is the reality of owning a sand cat...it's not that bad. But she's not a regular cat. But she's also weird. The best way to "discourage" people from owning an animal they don't really want is to just tell the truth.

[@Ntce]

i could have sworn that sand cats are illegal to own for the fact they are wild and arent even used to seeing people

[@cheesemanthe2nd]

Should've gotten a bobcat, they're much more affectionate if trained well. The smaller a wildcat is the harder it becomes to tame. It's due to the size difference between you and them, they're afraid of it because having a huge creature that can easily overpower them at any moment is scary.

[@bevs9995]

but ive heard bobcats are very very very energetic

[@explorer909]

WRONG! I think you've been watching too many Walt Disney Movies.

[@subscribe_please_]

your cat is like *i wanna go home not here*

[@80sGuy.]

Well, Sandy would be a perfect name.

[@explorer909]

THIS CAT HAS TWO SETTINGS; Setting#1: Angry Setting#2: Angrier LMFAO!, LMFAO! LMFAO!,LMFAO!

[@explorer909]

VIDEO TIP: You have an exotic beautiful cat. It probably would have been a great idea to video-record your cat doing the things you said it does, then edit and combine the short video clips into one longer video before you narrate the story. No offense, but as a viewer, I would have rather watched 6 minutes of your beautiful cat doing the things you said it does rather than watch you.

[@roarrrist]

LOL DAMN

[@simionleva3856]

Do you hate her or something?

[@Sweet_Oni]

God your rude

[@explorer909]

@@Sweet_Oni - Believe it or not, many people respect and prefer honesty over fake kindness. People like me help others to become better. People like you would be too afraid to correct someone's mistake because you've falsely mistaken honestly for rudeness. You could never be a fashion model.

[@MarieAntoinetteandherlittlesis]

I would love to see 6 minutes of Sand Cat footage. That’s why I’m here. It would be cool to expose her to different things and video everything she does. Video what she eats, how she eats it. How much water she drinks, etc.

[@Passerby8822]

I feel for these cats; they're habituated to the most remote, wild and arid deserts of the world. It's sad and probably dangerous to you and others in the cat's vicinity, to try to domesticate them.

[@JeantheSecond]

Yes, this. I only want a pet that I know will be comfortable in a domestic environment. Their comfort is more important than my desires. My domestic cat acts like she’s the Queen and I’m her lowly servant, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

[@slasher1563]

@@JeantheSecond Your cat isn't different from this sand cat. There are literal millions of "domestic" cats that act just like this, my aunt had a cat that was 1000x more of a bitch than this one. That's because unlike dogs NO felines can be truly domesticated. There are Lions and Tigers that are just big fluffy kittens and tiny house cats that actually want to see every human around them bleed.

[@JeantheSecond]

@@slasher1563 Yes, my cat is very different from this sand cat. You are just plain wrong.

[@slasher1563]

@@JeantheSecond No you're plain ignorant and self righteous. Again you can look up stories of tigers who are pussy cats. Does that mean they should be kept as pets? Also are you vegan? It seems strange to take the position that this particular cat shouldn't be kept because you think it's unhappy, yet consume the flesh of animals that are kept in small spaces, raped and impregnated by machines just to have their babies torn away and go threw the same fate before being ripped apart. Or is it different because unlike felines, cows can be domesticated and will trust humans?

[@Moemoepot]

@@slasher1563 lol don't compare dogs and cats

[@MewmewGrrl]

Housecats that end up with these dipositions are unusual and a throwback and it's very rare. Sand Cats that end up with these dispositions are natural and normal as it's the usual for them. It's exactly the opposite. Being that they die so easily and often from respiratory issues when taken away from the arid dry desert air of their homeland, you'll unfortunately probably have space for another Sand Cat soon. Please don't get more Sand Cats.

[@genetsandjazz]

I've heard that, but there's no evidence for it that I've seen. Angry cats are not rare, try looking at feral ones.

[@joelevy3042]

Uhhhh Nahhhhh Sista this ain't it. You probably should put her back fam. Good luck to you no matter what though. But every breed ain't for everything.

[@piekielrl]

Melissa, Is that you writing the articles about Sand Cats and Pallas Cats on the 'exotic animals for sale' website?

[@seekingthelost7]

Thanks for sharing, Melissa. Beautiful cat !

[@AniSepherd972]

caracals hiss too but it is their communication voice, they dont adapt themselves to talk with humans in meow like other cats have

[@ceraway2276]

I’m building my domestic cats an outdoor enclosure. I think she might like one too. Do you take her outside at all?

[@genetsandjazz]

All of my animals are indoors, I can't have outdoor enclosures. Although sand cats being desert animals are probably better off in the lower humidity.

[@sharity3289]

My cats love their catio!!!

[@Imogen-mn2jm]

@@genetsandjazz I will never understand why people partake in the exotic animal trade - this is NOT a domestic pet

[@GolfClashDreamR]

@@Imogen-mn2jm because they are ignorant m0r0ns only thinking about themself and what THEY want... Not news really

[@antwainryals7983]

Sorry to bother you but do sand cats have homing instant like regular cats cause I was thinking about getting me one too and I was wondering can I keep him outside after I tame him

[@genetsandjazz]

That would be a no.

[@Discodoos]

Maybe she hates you because you’re feeding her dry crappy “meat cereal” and don’t give her what she truly thrives on

[@alexthelion1342]

You should give her to a conservation or wildlife rescue so they can put her in a suitable environment. This will also help with breeding.

[@zt6350]

she doesnt need to and its a different type of sand cat thats in danger

[@nooraqueen2716]

Sand cats can be domesticated they are not dangerous to humans

[@andyw3152]

@@nooraqueen2716 PMSL yea over a few thousand years maybe!!! And yes, it's a wild cat, and will be unpredictable, as they have not been bread to live with humans.

[@andyw3152]

@@zt6350 The sand cat is the sand cat, which cat are you thinking of? This post just means, and a wildlife centre will put this cat back into the environment it's used to.

[@zt6350]

@@andyw3152 there are different species only one of them is endangered

[@Max-on9uj]

It’s been a year. Is it still alive? The poor sand cat looks unhappy and stressed out.

[@genetsandjazz]

Still alive, still the same.

[@valcrist7428]

If she hisses a lot, I would think she is highly stress with you and doesn't like you. Nothing personal but I think she doesn't like humans (due to her wild instincts). I would think she's is undergoing a lot of stress living there. It's not good for her health. Provide her with big enclosure where she can be all by herself or better just give her to Big Cat rescue.. Poor thing. Imagine being around with someone that makes you stressed from time to time. That is a hard life.

[@genetsandjazz]

I cannot categorically state that she is not stressed, but I believe she is just fine. I don't interact with her more than necessary, which some people have criticized me for. This is exactly what zoos do, although mine is in a quiet environment, away from neighboring captive predators, multiple caretakers, and the loud public which is a consistent issue in zoo-housed small exotic cats. Explain to me why the fuck I would send her to a zoo (Big Cat Rescue would be last, last on the damn list) when she is used to this environment and me as a caretaker? You don't know anything about animals, so don't talk down to me please with your made up, armchair expertise.

[@syedsarwar4360]

@@genetsandjazz You are honestly a very ignorant person. This cat is showing OBVIOUS signs of stress and disliking to you even being around and just because it hasn’t change since being a kitten you ASSUME conveniently that thats all it knows to do and it must be okay to be in your care. The right thing to do is to give this cat away to a conservation or wildlife rescue that can get her to the environment she ACTUALLY likes to be in. Yet here this cat is suffering just because you wanted an exotic cate. Disgusting and sad.

[@genetsandjazz]

@@syedsarwar4360 You guys crack me up always believing there's some magical "wildlife center" that will change this cat's personality. They hiss in "wildlife rescues" and "conservation centers" too. I can assure you, she's not going anywhere and I couldn't give less of a shit about your useless opinion.

[@kraft24seven94]

@@genetsandjazz ...THEY ARE WILD CATS ...THEY SURVIVE IN EXTREME HOT CONDITIONS... THEY DON'T EVEN NEED WATER .. THEY ARE HIGHLY SENSITIVE IN HEARING.... You are living with it and yet you don't know anything about it ... And being rude to everyone in the comment section....like the whole world is wrong but you are right.... Disgusting

[@GolfClashDreamR]

@@genetsandjazz so reading your answers it's clear, you are not just ignorant but pretty stup1d too...If you barely even are gonna interact with it... Why have it? well i'll tell you why... Because you think it's "cool" and it makes you "unique" and you can show it off... Or do you have any other reasonable explaination? i bet you dont......

[@theriawilliams818]

So how you get one of those tho??

[@ABCDEF-xb3xo]

How do you get one. There illegal to have

[@TanyaQueen182]

I just watched a video about Sand Cats on Nat Geo Wild. I never even knew they existed. What a beautiful animal.

[@whatislifebuttheenjoymento3405]

This cat is equipped with all the necessary equipment in surviving the harshest environment.. if cats talked, I'm sure they would want to go back to the Sahara.

[@kewlztertc5386]

you're 100% wrong. Wild life is very stressful, always on guard for predators, constant need to hint with mediocre success rates. All cat species (except one), live 2-3x longer in captivity than in the wild.

[@whatislifebuttheenjoymento3405]

@@kewlztertc5386are you saying it's much better to lock them up in houses how is that any different from life sentence? You don't really know what you are talking about. Cats are happy outside. I have a black cat hr goes out and comes in anytime he wants. And guess what he spends outside most of the time. So fk ya irrational thinking.

[@surprisedpikachu595]

@@kewlztertc5386 sand cats evolved to survive in the wild so their used to it

[@aspookyspookynight]

How is she today?

[@sugarbelle6801]

She is so beautiful. I love her markings. I wonder how she would get along with other regular cats. Thanks for sharing.

[@monsterman2.0yt6]

Probably not very well since other wild cats are typically pretty territorial.

[@bethhughes4709]

If you are at all feeling nervous of getting bit or afraid when you are associating with the sand cats,it will cause them to become nervous and upset too making it hard to tame them down some.Cats pick up on your vibes.If you have some thick gloves to pet them with that might help you to relax while you bond.

[@jjr1728]

What do you know princess

[@travisyayes6343]

I agree. You can't be afraid of it. If you assert dominance eventually it will submit.

[@andyw3152]

@@travisyayes6343It's a wild cat FFS, and should be in the wild.

[@Rikki2684]

Judging by your ratio of views to upvotes, I'm just gonna assume you have a lot of downvotes lol. And you probably moderated the comments to remove anything you don't like. But personally I don't find anything wrong about the content of the video, you wanted a sand cat and got a sand cat. I just wanted to say when you get a wild animal as a pet it can't be because you want the animal to adjust to your life, it should be because you are willing to adjust your life to the animal. You can only earn its trust by speaking its language, whether that be not looking directly in their eyes which is a confrontational body language or slow blinking your eyes to let it know you are calm, I'm not an expert on sand cats and neither are you so what ever social queues they use is up to you to research. Bottom line is this cat has no idea what you are and what you want and it will probably never understand it until you learn the behavior of the species. Until then you will always be viewed as a threat. Reinforce any progression with treats, and you should probably get some insects to be honest Edit: make that all of its natural food sources. Rodents, insects, eggs++ It doesn't really want that dry processed food. You wouldn't get a pet lion and feed it dog food so why would you think it's any different with sand cats? What ever you feed her you should aim to progressively move her feeding bowl closer to you until she associate being close to you as something positive. You're going to need a lot of patience, and why else would you want a wild animal if that wasn't something you were committed to do... So I assume you are committed, else you're going to live with a wild animal in your home for the rest of its life or until you decide she isn't worth your time and what ever fate is in store for her is not your problem

[@jjr1728]

I don't like her appearance nor attire. She doesn't even try. In caveman times she would have starved

[@scottlane4884]

Hey its been a year now how is she now 🐈 👍

[@TreeBug88]

You have a cat you don’t wanna pick up you have a cat you’re afraid of you have a cat because it’s exotic you have a cat because you’re stuck with it Your cat is pissed off she was ripped from her mother your cat was taken from her mother when her eyes were open your cat hisses at the fear energy that projects from your body If any animal feels love eventually they will crave your love

[@tonytomato5846]

I have much experience with Ferrell cats. Not sure if it translates to sand cats. But in my experience, time... the more time you invest, the more they trust you. My Ferrell kitty loves to cuddle with me. He won't go near anyone else. He is always shy and afraid. But with me, he loves to cuddle. I can even hold him and cradle him. No one else can do this. I attribute it to the time I invested with him alone. I isolated him in the bathroom with me. I kept food next to me. We would do this for about an hour or more each day. It didn't take long at all before he ate next to me. Even letting me pet him while he ate.now he is lovable and trusting. So give your kitty some time. Make time for you to be alone with him to get to know you without distraction. You will see a change.

[@shirleyjhaney1041]

It’s spelled feral.

[@isupportthecurrentthing5225]

if i was to get an exotic cat, id just get a bobcat

[@julierawlins5984]

I wonder if another cat, a regular cat, would help. You seem to be a very good pet owner.

[@valacari]

Too bad shes ruining this animals life

[@lonnarheaj]

Your sand cat is beautiful! I admire you appreciating your little wild girl the way she is. As she ages, she may mellow out a bit; it seems like they all have that tendency. All cats should be appreciated for who they are. Every cat is an individual; from domestic to wild, they all have different personalities, and they each tollerate and express different levels of affection. I rescued a feral cat years ago, and she lived inside our home for 10 years until she developed a malignant naso-pharyngeal tumor, and I couldn't let her suffer. Bridget never meowed and never "talked" to us like her kittens, and our other cats have always done. Bridget always hissed as her greeting, and then we would slow-blink each other, and Bridget would settle down close by and contentedly watch what I was doing.

[@andyw3152]

Mellow out PMSL, it's not a domesticated feral cat. It's a wild cat. It's a bit like saying a lion or a chimp will mellow with age. Up to the point when it decides to take your face off.

[@jeffreywickens3379]

I wouldn't want one, because as cute as they are, they just don't look happy to be around. But, I'm not going to condemn you for keeping one. But I wonder how it would act, if you kept a friendly, domestic cat in the house with it.

[@_getfree]

The fact that you know your cat doesn't like you and its environment should be cause enough or you to not own it. "I can interact with her a little bit" girl you shouldn't own this cat then...

[@genetsandjazz]

Some animals do not like to interact with people, or anything, what's your point? Just because it looks like a regular cat doesn't mean I have to cuddle with it, and I don't force my interaction on her more than needed. It was you who pulled "and its environment" out of your butt. Don't tell me what I should and shouldn't own you clown.

[@junyah4152]

@@genetsandjazz just admit you’re wrong dude.

[@silenciummortum2193]

@@genetsandjazz You sure are sensitive… quite a “delicate flower” for a tank of a woman. People are just offering non-harmful and innocent comments but you try to be all tough and dismissive. People like you make my day. 😂😆🤓

[@boredscientist5756]

​@@genetsandjazz you are just wrong....

[@judahmourns2995]

@@junyah4152 just admit that It ain’t ur business… you think a turtle wants to live with people?? But yet a lot of people have turtles🤷🏾‍♂️…

[@labalabalaba3174]

The habitat of sand cats is in the desert, not in your home

[@hkschubert9938]

What a great video! Thank you Melissa for letting us know all this!

[@valacari]

She owns a wild illegal animal.

[@theblackaudiofiles4444]

get her a big sand box to unleash some of that natural instinct energy and maybe she will cheer up

[@jessragan6714]

Are they genetically compatible with house cats, the way caracals and servals are? Maybe breeding them with the similar looking British shorthair would result in calmer, more docile offspring. It'd be halfway to a sand cat... like, a beach cat.

[@Swaggersthecat]

What a beautiful kitty. Looks to me like you've done a wonderful job with her. You should be very proud.

[@Skyeatsthesky]

Nah this sad she needs to be in the wild you SHOULD NEVER keep them as pets this is sad and ignorant

[@andyw3152]

Some people are just so blinkered when it comes to reality. This is just supporting the illegal trade.

[@comedial6829]

Bro 😕 hand her off to a professional wild animal rehabilitation, she's obviously not happy

[@genetsandjazz]

I'll just get a USDA license and call myself "Happy Wild Animal Rehabilitation Sanctuary". That's really all it takes for you ignorant people.

[@GolfClashDreamR]

@@genetsandjazz you are the ignorant one... You should be ashamed of yourself.. seriously! and the fact that you can't even tell that it does not show signs of happiness says it all really.... It's kinda funny that you even thought people would react positively to this video.... Just shows even more how ignorant you truly are..

[@johnjurogajdosik1432]

I can’t wait to see what her name is

[@harrisonkalmar335]

Hi I have some questions about the sand cat do you have email or something

[@genetsandjazz]

What questions?

[@harrisonkalmar335]

@@genetsandjazz about care availability etc

[@harrisonkalmar335]

@@genetsandjazz just really interested in sand cats and have some questions

[@genetsandjazz]

@@harrisonkalmar335 Just ask them here.

[@harrisonkalmar335]

@@genetsandjazz I’m just curious about breeders and where I can get one

[@belladeann8398]

GIVE HER SOME PEOPLE CAN TUNA 🐟 And PEOPLE CAN CHICKEN 🍗 And SOME 🥓 BACON AS A TREAT. TRY SARDINES TOO. I ALWAYS HAD TO FEED THEM THOSE FOOD OUTSIDE. BECAUSE THEY ATTACK QUICKLY. IT ENDS UP ON THE FLOOR. 😳 NOVEMBER 2023 AS A KID MY CAT JUMP ME, FOR MY CHICKEN 🍗 DRUM STICK. POP ME IN MY EYE. I DROPPED THE DRUM STICK And HE TOOK OFF WITH IT.

[@blackstar044]

Also im pretty sure them hissing is a form of communication, just like caracals and servals.

[@stormtaylor7571]

OMG!!!!!! She is ADORABLE 🥰 and I have been wanting a sand cat for ages but I can’t find where to get one and I admire that you would stick up for her and that you respect that she needed a home

[@pluto8031]

They’re not cats you domesticate, you idiot. They belong in the wild. Look it up and do your research before you go around saying you want one.

[@GolfClashDreamR]

You "want" one? you should be ashamed of yourself for wanting to contribute to their pain and suffering just because it's "adorable"... Stop looking for one, stop contributing to poaching and buy a normal cat... Or wait! egotistical humans only thinking about what THEY want should never even own any pet.. so i take that back...

[@socalastarte6727]

There are only a handful of states in the US where it is legal to own a Sandcat. That should tell you something. Unless you live in the below listed 6 states, it is a crime to own one. Alabama, Nevada, North Carolina, Wisconsin, Delaware, and Oklahoma.

[@mr.swagssw2083]

She is so cute

[@orls9068]

It's disgraceful that pet stores sell these animals

[@Life_is_Beautiful20k]

But whats the use of keeping such a cat which you cant hold n cuddle. I think its better to leave them in the wild.

[@ng7896]

She's so cute how is she doing now?

[@genetsandjazz]

About the same.

[@jeromelombardo6053]

Love her she is so beautiful.

[@tigrisrgn4062]

its so freaking cute!

[@juliensavary]

great vid

[@kelleyspartiatis4776]

You should not own a sand cat. They are wild animals and they don't do well outside of their natural habitat. Just because you wanted one doesn't mean you should.

[@antwainryals7983]

I wonder can they come to you when you call them and follow you like regular cats

[@cheesemanthe2nd]

Theres definitely a reason why you got it on a discount lmao, I'd sell it or cut my loses and donate it to a animal sanctuary

[@shelbysnake5003]

Most likely wild caught kitten.

[@sereganyc]

Nice!

[@freshasfebreeze7621]

This is really sad to see, she looks like she is stressed and constantly on guard. That can't be good for her.. also I noticed with couple of your videos that you don't name your pets, and just call them 'cat', 'bird'. Which is interesting and quite impersonal, as if they are highly sought out, exotic decorations..

[@genetsandjazz]

Typical 2canTV fan, impressed by fake people. Worried about me not naming my pets, as though that hurts them, impressed with claims that exotic animals make bad pets even as he buys them right before your eyes. I've had that "bird" longer than 2can has ever had one of his. I suggest you stick to putting make up on your face. You don't have an inkling of a clue about animals.

[@surprisedpikachu595]

@@genetsandjazz As with any wild cat, you should never have a sand cat for a pet, although that doesn't stop many from capturing them to sell on the black market. Their natural instincts are far stronger than a house cat's and can get bored very easily. And this is just animal abuse

[@dustinmartin8735]

You should name her I have to agree with freshasfebreez

[@shawn852]

@@surprisedpikachu595 yeah call her hisss!!

[@daryadarya6554]

Orly an idea : Take a normal cat from the shelter and bring them together. Maybe she can be socialized this way..

[@doomizz]

If instead of roaming free in your natural habitat some1 put you on a pet store in order to live in a house for the rest of your life you wouldn't be happy about it either

[@PlanetRockJesus]

Glad you're taking care of that little kitty. In a hundred thousand years what will make a difference? Enjoy!

[@MegaMegajennifer]

your sand cat reminds me of my male dog

[@dagreatvirility5276]

I just looked at a video of a Caucasian with a sand cat and I couldn't find one negative comment. Enjoy your cat love, people will hate you no matter what you do.

[@EmmanuelLewis2]

That's sad because I was wondering if all of the negative comments were racially fueled... smdh

[@GolfClashDreamR]

@@EmmanuelLewis2 Yeah... pull the race-card... Maybe, just MAYBE the negative comments comes from the fact that she has a million exotic "pets" at home INDOORS as trophies? ever thought about that, genius?

[@surfacepro3328]

@@EmmanuelLewis2 did you even bother to read a single one of the comments you are referring to? This has literally nothing to do with her being black it is about how we shouldn't keep wild animals at home as trophies because it is very bad for them and further increases exotic animal trade which then harms the species and eventually may put it into the danger of going extinct. All that just because some people just cant grasp that somr animals should not be domesticated.

[@abdulellahalguthami3250]

Dear melissa i have been looking to get a sand cat for sometime but with no luck, i came across your video and would like to ask of the pet store name that u got it from. or if u have a breeder that u know. Anything can help would be highly appreciated. Thanks

[@deepchange2973]

This is supposed to live in desert not in house

[@ragingtomato04]

if this was rescued or her parents is rescued, they can't go back into the wild

[@xiegalo253]

Wild, is wild. Domestic animals will die without humans.

[@egalo-medina6859]

if an animal was sold in a pet store, the likelihood of it surviving in the wild is almost zero. don't be a hater

[@xiegalo253]

@@egalo-medina6859 ik many people don't understand the meaning because people don't dig deeper they're just searching problems about basically everyone, they will mock you and only focus negative things about you.

[@xiegalo253]

Or you can also call them wild trolls

[@averyrathbun3859]

So the reason owning a sand cat is problematic is because you're contributing to an industry which works to the detriment of them and many other species. The thing is increased capturing for domestication = increased poaching ever single time. Look at the river otter as a prime example of this rule. Even if you bought it from a pet store you are still ultimately contributing to this violent cycle. The mother was likely killed and flayed. It's especially bad to be making videos about your cat as it can promote this kind of ownership to other people helping this industry even more. Sand cats also have very sensitive ears, so if you live in a city or well populated area they may be damaging their ears and in a constant state of anxiety and stress. In the wild they use these ears to find the tiniest traces of life in truly arid land. Sand cats are one of the most mysterious under studied species in the world thanks to their elusiveness. If the cat were to suffer health problems treatment would be very very complicated and involve a lot of shooting in the dark. Too many people are uneducated about the harm in these exotic pet trades. At this point the cat will most likely not be able to function again in the wild, so regardless of how unwelcoming or mean it might be to you, if you don't take care of it, it has no future

[@genetsandjazz]

You can't just make up a bunch of crap as an argument. Give me a source that sand cats have sensitive hearing (significantly more than regular cats) that makes them do poor in captivity. Show me where a sand cat has been "killed and flayed" because that makes no sense. Sand cats are in the same genus as domesticated cats, so why would treating one be anymore complicated?

[@averyrathbun3859]

1: Sandcats absolutely do have more sensitive hearing than regular cats, it's a well understood fact about their survival. However as I've said they are not well understood and have little research done on them. I should make it clear that statement was speculative on my part. I apologize for not wording my original comment correctly and sounding way to authoritative. It's obviously not clear if those environments pose any sort of danger to them. My main point was that they are a very understudied species and information on how to keep them in captivity as pets is not really available. What is absolutely clear is that they are very hard to breed in captivity and are vulnerable to a number of respiratory diseases. Essentially my point is that sandcats are not as simple as regular cats and in fact considering how little we know about them it's irresponsible to buy one. 2: Sand cat poaching absolutely does happen and there's plenty of evidence of it. What do you mean "doesn't make sense"? Are you ignorant of the fact all small cat species are hunted for their pelts? Look at the Salt Cat. They have the second most trafficked pelt in the ENTIRE world. Sand Cat trade is just more obscure due to the fact that they are harder to hunt. But it does happen and since you seem very ignorant of it I highly recommend you reach out to Small Wild Cat Conservation Foundation to learn more. 3: Just because they belong to the same genus does not mean that their care is going to be like domestic cats, or that a vet in your area will be able to spay, neuter, vaccinate, or treat your sand cat in the case of an emergency. With this line of reasoning do you also believe sand cats can be fed the same cat food as their domesticated cousins? If so than you really need to do more research about your pet sand cat, and your instinct should definitely not be to assume any similarities between Sand Cat and domesticated cats

[@genetsandjazz]

@@averyrathbun3859 Plenty of evidence? Then show me. Show me evidence sand cats are being hunted for their fur and stop making things up. Don't you think I know whether or not I can get vet care? It's my animal, she has had her shots and has been vetted. And yes she DOES get regular cat food, which is why she won't end up being malnourished with the metabolic diseases acquired by exotic cats owned by people who think they need to feed chicken gizzards over a well-researched diet. My spotted genet gets cat food too.

[@freshasfebreeze7621]

@Avery Rathbun Thank you for making sense :( the cat just looks anxious / scared / confused and this owner knows nothing about the species... just wanted it cause its cute. Literary says in the video about how she doesn't even know if its body language is same as domestic cats. Should you not know these things before owning one??

[@stephanieramirez2196]

I just saw this beautiful cat for the first time in one or two videos, but from what I being reading as cat lover, all cats are wild but they were domestic little by little from time to time.

[@faizafouzy8138]

Just call her Sandy

[@dul2011]

I thought this sand cat wasn’t supposed to keep as a pet

[@Redferngrows]

theyre not

[@solarlola5953]

The cat is so suspicious 😅

[@user-bg6mv4dx6y]

Hi Mellissa do you know a breeder I am interested in buying one. Thank you

[@genetsandjazz]

I only know of one who sells to people with USDA licenses.

[@user-bg6mv4dx6y]

@@genetsandjazz Can you share his website or email address please or yours or do you want me to give you mine

[@kikiandgigi9585]

​@@genetsandjazz which you don't have and therefore obtained it illegally

[@kaizillaboy]

Sandy is the perfect name.

[@maxluong2]

Could you have allowed a domesticated cat to raise the sand cat kitten? I think that would have helped her behavior

[@vincentcasino2356]

What good is having that cat if it's going to bite you and scratch you should have got a Savannah cat

[@mermarseo]

I feel sad for both of you.

[@sauceman5971]

2:44 aww

[@jakunkyo6215]

When it comes to people showing their exotic pets, why do ppl in the comments think they are wildlife experts 💀

[@genetsandjazz]

Not to mention people who've never seen this species in person trying to lecture me on how I should be caring for it.

[@loplop1752]

Fair enough but if you watch her videos she obviously doesn’t know either. But I mean did you see the cat in the video 😂 looks happy. She also has exotic birds squawking around. She’s so incompetent when it’s not just a reptile. She had a spotted genet and knew so little it kept eating random stuff in the cage and died of cancer. Believe it ate a scratching post…

[@loplop1752]

@@genetsandjazz can’t lecture you on that spotted genet you already killed it

[@genetsandjazz]

@@loplop1752 I'm fixing to block you, you useless POS.

[@verdantia]

wild instinct is strong!

[@andyw3152]

What is it with humans wanting to own wild cats, they are wild and have not been domesticated to live with humans. It may look cute, but his cat has one of the strongest bite for its size. Please leave wild cats from African in Africa.

[@darkii5889]

maybe she need to meet other sand cat, play and fight with them release some animal anxiety

[@surfacepro3328]

Ah here we have the all fking knowing karen

[@brianhargrove8760]

i want one

[@PulseTriangle]

This animal shouldn't be kept in that environment! It's like keeping a lizard in a shoebox in your bathroom. Even when you were petting her it was easy to see how uncomfortable she is around you. Although I agree animals should be given some time to adjust, clearly it's not not a good match between you two

[@genetsandjazz]

No it's like keeping a lizard in a cage, which I've done too.

[@MewmewGrrl]

People don't get Sand Cats because their lungs and system need to be in an environment that is not any more humid than the Sahara Desert. The very least humid state in the entire USA is twice the humidity that Sand Cats can tolerate. They almost always will get these severe respiration issues if you try to keep them outside of the insanely low-humidity areas they live in. If you keep them in some domestic setting, they need to have their home humidity controlled to an extreme level. Not only that, but because of these issues and special needs they have, it's rare to have Sand Cats born outside of nature or an expensive and difficult to maintain special environment. So most all of the kittens come from the wild - and they murder the mothers when they go to take the kittens! "This leg of the species for this type isn't endangered." That's not a great excuse to do whatever you want with an emotionally and intellectually intelligent animal. I do appreciate that you're showing the reality of how Sand Cats can be, but despite seeing for yourself you're in this kind of denial about keeping these wild animals. You're even saying that you'd still get another one. Please don't. Please, please don't.

[@genetsandjazz]

Yet Carole Baskin can keep one in fucking Florida. Fuck outta here.

[@HeadBois-Inc]

@@genetsandjazz And are you Carole?? Regardless and either way- seeing many responses from You in your comment section- I hope Desperately that this beautiful but poorly treated (especially in means of Research done to take care of Properly) kitten/cat gets rescued from your 'care' It is great doing what you can and taking care of a life that can benefit from such care and love and appreciation. Cats are very much such. What you're doing is Not that. If you cannot recognize the damage you're causing to a Wild (well, Once was wild unfortunately) animal and cat like the Sand Cat breed? I hope that wonderful cat is rescued soon.

[@genetsandjazz]

@@HeadBois-Inc She's still here with me, lol, barking up a storm.

[@animaanimus8011]

No one should own a sand cat. They’re wild animals. I fear that sometimes rescues are inadvertent advertisements leading to the illegal animal pet trade.

[@genetsandjazz]

Yeah when people come out with exotic pets on leashes I just wanted my own, so I got them.

[@Jlawson310]

Why not just get a regular cat? There's tons of them at the humane society who need a home and would like to actually be there. Not to be disrespectful but that thing's probably going to haul off and bite you when it gets bigger.

[@genetsandjazz]

She's fully grown, so why are you lecturing me about an animal you literally know nothing about?

[@alexthelion1342]

@@genetsandjazz, you didn't answer the question

[@Pinkkittie5006]

@@genetsandjazz he/she just said not to be disrespectful. No need to be rude but he/she is right some animals aren't ment to be domesticated this cat is one of them. They're not the same as an average cat.

[@morell1185]

Why pwn a wild cat leave them where they belong!

[@jesuswept5863]

She may have been traumatized before you ever got her. Taken from her mother too early, locked in cages, etc……Not your fault.

[@cheesemanthe2nd]

The smallest of the wild cat species are also not very good with humans by default, because they're afraid of humans due to how much bigger we are compared to them. I'd guess it was not well tamed and that's why it was being sold for a lower price

[@vikinglife6316]

Some wont adapt. Thing about wild cats is you need to trial and error it. Some wil love you others will simply not like you.

[@jimcatanzaro7808]

This is probably illegal I want one as well

[@leehalifax]

Keeping it inside wtf? This needs to be in a sanctuary outdoors that's why she's angry ..

[@mimilulu6020]

Algerian sand cat not a toy or domestic cat its wild need be free on sand all i see is animal trafficking shame on you

[@adrienisaacrubalcado5879]

Shame on you for being a pansy ass

[@notaweeb3497]

Technically all animals should be in the wild

[@solarlola5953]

@@notaweeb3497 not my malshi lol

[@rosebudXx]

Agreed. It’s wrong. She’s angry because she’s a wild animal being kept inside... not because it’s “part of her demeanor” -__- seriously? It’s just wrong.

[@xiegalo253]

@@notaweeb3497 she may be rescued so she can't stay in a wild, yes they have claws and stuff but they can't hunt in a wild, it's the same thing as killing them. Let me repeat this, do you want to take care of Snad cats or just put them and thinking : "ah they're gonna survive" but NO, is because they got used to you

[@robinfoster2696]

She's wild. I had a wild bird or 2. I had to rehome them to a more natural environment with animal enclosures or release them. I can't keep them anymore and felt sorry for them. It's good to see animals be wild and in their homes. Poor thing is in shock. Oh well - we preside over animals and can have what we want. We're at the TOP :)

[@genetsandjazz]

Exactly.

[@kraft24seven94]

@@genetsandjazz you r dangerous

[@alexthelion1342]

@@genetsandjazz you don't care?

[@blackstar044]

Fennec fox + cat = Sand cat

[@daveazhell6581]

You seem to be afraid of her maybe she can sense that and that's why she behaves that way.

[@kyleknight8267]

All cats slow blink even tigers and lions do it and it means the same thing

[@Mike-01234]

That animal is wild doesn't want to be anyone's pet.

[@donnaparks1919]

And they probably being mixed

[@PimpCatTV]

I wouldn’t even keep an aggressive/unfriendly/unaffectionate domestic cat, much less a wildcat. The point of a pet in my eyes is to have a loving cuddly sweet little thing to snuggle, not just something to look at... This is owning a cat without the benefits of owning a cat.

[@MrPowertech]

The ignorance.... These animals need to live in the wild!!

[@PlanetRockJesus]

You should live in "the wild."

[@Sorel366]

More than regular cats ? Why ?

[@shebahammy]

Theese cats were born in the indoors. They are being domesticated to be indoor cats. They wont be harmed

[@sunfire5790]

@@PlanetRockJesus cat’s are natural pest control, it’s incredibly selfish to ruin the balance of natural for an “exotic” pet.

[@Mike-01234]

@@shebahammy You can't just take a wild animal and domesticate it takes many years of breeding and culling to make a wild animal domestic. Just being born indoors really has nothing to do with domesticating an animal.

[@l...]

Sandy

[@user-xq3lv3pd2h]

The cat is aggressive because it's a wild animal. It can't live free like it wants to, They are nocturnal hunters. It needs a hot dry climate and desert or semi-desert. It needs to hunt it's own prey, small rodents and small snakes. This is cruel. Tigers are also beautiful. Would you keep one in your house, without anywhere to roam?

[@napoleonbonaparte1260]

My cat was so aggressive when it was a kitten but I push myself to touch and pet her everytime, time goes by she gets used to my petting her belly.

[@hopingstare8980]

the belly of a cat is where the internal organs are i think, and they think its an attack if u touch your belly