From tropical forests to wooded savannas and deserts, the Leopard is a highly adept and magnificent exotic cat. An endangered species, the Leopard has twice the hearing capabilities of man and sight nearly six times better.

As with any large, exotic cat, prospective owners should do a great deal of research on the cat before purchase. An adept hunter, the Leopard should not likely be considered for a first-time exotic cat owner. The Leopard hunts primarily through the use of stealth. This cat typically hunts in the wild, near dusk and dawn, taking advantage of low light to sneak up on prey. The Leopard's diet usually consists of warthog, baboon, antelope, birds and other small mammals. There are reports of rare man-eating Leopards, who develop a taste for humans after tasting it once. Leopards cleverly keep their kills from that of scavengers, such as hyenas, by hiding the prey in the branches of tall trees. Leopards are adept climbers and use this to their advantage in hiding food, finding shelter, and in hunting. These cats are primarily solitary in nature, but nonetheless protective of their territory. As a pet, the Leopard must be kept in a large, sturdy enclosure, in accordance with local laws and regulations. A proper license is needed to own an exotic cat, or the cat will be confiscated. Training is recommended for Leopards, to prevent unfortunate accidents between the cat and family members, including other household pets. The cat must be taught not to climb, bite, or claw owners at an early age. A steady diet of fresh meat should be provided for the Leopard, as they are carnivores. Zoological vitamins can be a good nutritional augment to the Leopard's diet. As the Leopard loves to climb, opportunities for climbing should be included in the enclosure, as well as a constant supply of fresh water.

Leopard males can weigh from 86 to 99 pounds. Female Leopards typically weigh a third less, from 70 to 80 pounds. The largest leopard on record was from Ruanda. Leopards measure about 36-73 inches in head and body length, with a tail measuring 23-43 inches. Leopard's fur varies in color from a light gray to rusty brown. Leopards living in deserts or savannas have typically lighter coats in color, while those living in tropical forests are darker, facilitating better hunting. The Leopard's coat is covered with small black spots. Black Leopards are commonly found in tropical forests.

The Leopard has the largest number of natural habitats of any of the large cats. Leopards can live in a variety of habitats, including deserts, lowlands, grassy savannas and tropical forests, provided enough food and shelter. Leopards can be found in China, most of Africa, Pakistan, Siberia, India, and the Middle East. Leopards are considered endangered, especially in Africa where the cat has long been hunted for fur.

Leopards, as with any exotic cat, require specialized care. Accordingly, a veterinarian trained in the care of exotic cats should be consulted. A veterinarian trained in the special needs of exotic animals will best understand the best vaccinations, anesthesia needs and diets for the Leopard. Issues such as declawing and spaying/neutering the cat should be discussed with a veterinarian. The best owners are the most educated on the needs of their specific exotic cat.

The mating period of the Leopard depends greatly on the habitat. In the northern regions, the mating season is mainly in January and February, while in Leopards living elsewhere mate year-round. The gestation period of Leopards is 90-105 days. Two or three cubs are born per litter. Mother Leopards typically give birth to the litter in secluded dens, hidden from predators. Leopard cubs weigh only about one pound at birth and can usually open their eyes when they are 10 days old. The Leopard cubs remain with their mother until they are 15-24 months old.