10 Animals That Look Like Cats – But Aren’t (And You Can Legally Own Them in the U.S.)

Love cats but want something a little more exotic? You’re not alone. While domestic cats are iconic companions, some people crave pets that have that same feline mystique—graceful, curious, and a little wild—but with a unique twist. Fortunately, there are several animals that look and act like cats, without actually being cats.

Many of these animals are legal to own in various U.S. states, but always check your local and state regulations before bringing home an exotic pet. Here are 10 cat-like animals—ranked from the most subtly feline to the most striking lookalikes—that you can legally keep as pets in parts of the U.S.

#10: Ferret – A Slender, Playful Trickster

Ferrets aren’t related to cats, but their sleek bodies, sneaky behavior, and playful nature make them surprisingly cat-like. They love hiding, pouncing, and chasing toys. Ferrets are legal in most U.S. states (with exceptions like California and Hawaii) and are well-known for forming strong bonds with their owners.

#9: Domestic Skunk (Descented) – Calm and Surprisingly Sweet

Descented skunks are legal to own in several U.S. states and make affectionate, low-key pets. They have soft fur, move gracefully, and are curious like cats. With scent glands removed, they’re odor-free and often enjoy curling up with their humans—just like a mellow lap cat.

#8: Kinkajou – A Jungle-Dweller with Catlike Moves

This big-eyed, tree-loving mammal from Central America has a long tail and moves with the grace of a feline. Kinkajous are legal in many states with the proper permits and are known for their gentle curiosity, agile climbing, and social nature—traits any cat lover will recognize.

#7: Virginia Opossum – Shy but Loyal

Native to North America, the Virginia opossum isn’t your average pet, but in some states it’s legal to keep one with the proper licensing. Their quiet, night-loving behavior and reserved demeanor mimic a shy, introverted house cat. With time and patience, they can become very affectionate.

#6: Genet – Sleek, Spotted, and Elegant

Genets look like tiny jungle cats with long bodies, spotted coats, and graceful movements. While they’re actually related to mongooses, their feline aesthetic is hard to ignore. In certain U.S. states, genets can be owned as exotic pets with proper documentation and experience.

#5: Fennec Fox – Big Ears, Bigger Personality

The world’s smallest fox, the fennec fox is legal in many U.S. states and looks like an adorable mix between a kitten and a cartoon character. They’re active, intelligent, and curious—known to hop around and explore just like kittens. Their big ears and expressive eyes make them irresistible.

#4: Marten – Elusive and Catlike

Martens are less common as pets, but legal in some states under exotic animal laws. They’re incredibly agile, quiet, and love to climb and hunt small objects. If you’ve ever watched a cat silently stalk prey, you’ll recognize the same grace and focus in a marten.

#3: Domestic Fox (Russian Silver Fox) – Wild Looks, Catlike Curiosity

Domesticated foxes from Russia’s famous breeding program are legal in some states and have gained popularity for their intelligence and independence. Unlike dogs, they’re not eager to please—but their curious, independent personality makes them great for cat lovers who want something different.

#2: Asian Palm Civet – The Jungle Cat That Isn’t

The civet is not a cat, but you’d be forgiven for thinking otherwise. With a sleek body, sharp eyes, and solitary nature, they closely resemble small wildcats. Civets can be kept in some states with permits, and they require calm environments and experienced handling.

#1: Serval – The Ultimate Not-a-Cat Cat

The serval is a wild African feline—not a domestic cat—but it’s legal to own in many U.S. states with the right permits. With long legs, a spotted coat, and massive ears, the serval looks like a tiny cheetah. It’s agile, intelligent, and wildly elegant—offering the full feline fantasy without being a housecat.

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