LEOPARD CAT FOUNDATION: LCF was established in 2000 as a Leopard Cat breeding and research facility working with biologists, private breeders, and Zoos around the world to share in research and pool their genetic resources in the hope of providing the Leopard Cat species their best chance of survival, both in captivity and in their native lands. Because of illness and lack of funding, LCF was forced to end the breeding part and housing of Leopard Cats and closed it's facilities in 2011. The research and education continue.
GOALS: To preserve the Leopard Cat prionailurus bengalensis species and all their individual sub-species both in captivity and in their native lands. The overarching philosophy of LCF is to help facilities establish a large, healthy genetic pool of pure Leopard Cat subspecies in captivity. This will enable biologists to reintroduce healthy, pure lines back into their native range whenever needed. LCF founders and supporters believe that both zoo and especially private facilities have vital roles to play in the breeding and continued survival of the Leopard Cat species.
EDUCATION: LCF is educating the public on the plight of the Leopard Cat species and their subspecies both in captivity and in their native lands. LCF promotes responsible ownership and care. We will make every attempt to put the animals first, to work for the long-term benefit of the cats, to realize that we all have something to learn from one another, and to then give to the animals in our care.
RESEARCH: LCF is researching ways to best propagate the Leopard Cat species in captivity, this includes habitat design, balanced diets, and proper medical care. LCF is also researching the best ways to raise captive Leopard Cats suitable for successful release into the wild in their native lands and supports Leopard Cat research in the wild.
RESCUE: LCF rescue helps find homes for unwanted Leopard Cats around the world. It is estimated that hundreds of Leopard Cats die each year in captivity. Some are still being illegally taken from the wild. LCF works with authorities to offer assistance in keeping confiscated Leopard Cats from being euthanized.
Many Leopard Cats are purchased each year legally and illegally to be used in Bengal cat (Leopard Cat x domestic cat) hybrid breeding programs with high expectations, only too often to become unwanted when the owners soon realize that only about 1 out of 8 Leopard Cats will breed domestic cats and are difficult to care for.
Many of these beautiful Leopard Cats are soon neglected, improperly cared for, or have even been turned loose to starve in the wild. LCF's management rescue helps find a life long sanctuary for those they get in time.
FUNDING: LCF is supported by the founders and donations from supporters. Funds are always needed to maintain LCF's many research programs. If you would like to make a donation to help LCF in it's causes, please send a gift donation to:
WHAT IS A LEOPARD CAT?
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