My Little Zebra: It Might Be Legal. Any wolf or wolf-dog found … Everything is bigger in Texas, so they say. While it is legal to own a 98%/2% wolf-dog federally, many states, counties, and cities are outlawing all wolves and wolf-dogs. They are predators and wild animals. Texas is well-suited to keeping a pet tiger. It is illegal to own a tiger. In Texas, where you can own a pet tiger, the booming exotic animal trade has grim consequences. There are no US Federal restrictions to owning a tank with a demilitarized (disabled) main gun. In most areas of Texas, if you want to own a tiger, there is nothing to stop you. You may operate it on private land without restrictions. Its hot climate means a tiger can live outside year round, while the amount of cheap ranching land provides plenty of space for a big cat to roam. Looking for options beyond the classic cat and dog, Texans are seeking companionship from less likely sources: sugar gliders, ferrets, and exotic birds top the list of offbeat pets for owners. That Doesn't Make It A Good Idea An estimated 3,000 zebras are grazing in American backyards. Fortunately for your curiosity, every state has exotic animal laws which allow, restrict, or prohibit ownership of certain types of animals. Find out what your state laws are regarding the keeping of exotic cats from bobcats to tigers as pets. I volunteer at the zoo and I need to know if tigers are legal in captivity, what kind, and how many there are I have heard there where over 1'000 in captivity and I think it was the Bengal tiger and I know it was in Texas, but, I 'm not positive so if you know it would be great to get an answer. It is legal to own a tiger in the u.s.a What silly thing has someone tricked you into doing or believing? Answer. It's not just tigers; you can own a gorilla in Texas with the proper permits. Depending on what category your exotic pet falls into, you may or may not need a license/permit to own them. While the massive state may have garnered a reputation for doing things their own way and for having a large population of ranchers, larger exotic pets such as big cats and bears are not legal for the general public without a permit. You will also need to determine if there are State or local laws prohibiting tank ownership. Is it Legal to Own a Pet Tiger in Texas? Texas has a reputation as a state which places a high value on personal liberty, and it may come as no surprise that it is legal to own some interesting things in the Lone Star State. If you can own a tractor, you can own a tank! The state has no regulations when it comes to exotic animals. Wiki User April 12, 2017 8:49PM. Category 4 animals include bears, wolves, primates, and all non-domesticated felines except bobcats and Canadian lynx. Nothing. A white tiger at the International Exotic Animal Sanctuary. Tanks are legal to own the USA and other countries. Keep in mind that laws are improving to protect wild cats from being held captive all the time, so check with each state to make sure the information is current. Photo: Wendell Clendennen / EyeEm, Getty Images The permit application is available through the website of DSHS. It is illegal to own a pure wolf in the United States; they are classified as an endangered and regulated species. Everything is bigger in Texas, so they say. Perhaps you've always wanted to own a pet monkey, or you're wondering whether it's legal for your neighbor to have that cougar in his backyard. How much does it cost to own a tiger in Texas? Select the state of your choice below for a synopsis of the law. While the massive state may have garnered a reputation for doing things their own way and for having a large population of ranchers, larger exotic pets such as big cats and bears are not legal for the general public without a permit. Inherently dangerous animals as defined by the state are listed as Category 4 animals and require a permit. Exotic pets are becoming increasingly popular. Having a tiger as a pet may seem like a good idea but an expert notes that it's not all roses.