He said that some owners had admitted releasing their animals and that he had evidence to confirm 23 such releases of a panther, pumas, lynx and other exotic cat species.

In 1994, a polemic broke out when she requested a larger state-provided flat in the goal of exotic cat breeding.

Now cat charities are being inundated with exotic cats crossed with wild breeds that owners cannot cope with.

She focuses on large exotic cats that are used in films, shows or living in animal sanctuaries.

This was perpetuated through the 19th and early 20th centuries, especially by cat fanciers looking for new and exotic cats to import.