Spanish authorities have arrested a couple for illegally breeding and selling exotic cats, including hybrid species, in a major crackdown on wildlife trafficking. The operation, carried out in the region of Valencia, revealed a secret breeding facility where the pair had been keeping and crossbreeding wild felines, including servals and Savannah cats, in violation of national and EU wildlife protection laws. According to Spain’s Civil Guard, the couple had been running an unauthorized breeding business from their rural property, where officers found several adult wild cats and kittens being kept in poor conditions.

The animals were reportedly being sold to clients across Europe, often marketed as rare or luxury pets, with prices reaching several thousand euros per animal. Authorities believe the couple had been operating for several years, using online platforms and social media to advertise their exotic pets while avoiding detection. Many of the cats were hybrids—crosses between African servals and domestic cats—a practice that is tightly regulated due to concerns about animal welfare, ecological impact, and public safety.

During the raid, law enforcement also seized forged documents, illegal veterinary certificates, and microchip scanners used to fake the animals’ identities and origins. The exotic cats have since been rescued and transferred to specialized wildlife shelters, where they are being evaluated by veterinarians and rehabilitated. The arrested individuals face multiple charges, including animal cruelty, illegal possession and trafficking of protected species, document forgery, and violating Spain’s laws on dangerous animals.

If convicted, they could face significant fines and prison sentences. Wildlife experts warn that the illegal trade in exotic pets is a growing issue in Europe, often fueled by social media trends and the demand for rare, “designer” animals. Not only does it endanger the lives of the animals involved, but it also poses serious risks to biodiversity and public health. “This case is a clear example of how the illegal exotic pet trade can thrive behind closed doors,” a spokesperson from Spain’s environmental crime unit said.