Mia initially served as the household pet of a man in Wyoming. She lived in his house, which required him to make various lifestyle adjustments to accommodate her. Vacations became a rarity, as the presence of Mia was associated with shredded curtains, scratched and clawed furniture, and pervasive scent markings throughout the entire house. Socializing and having guests over was challenging, as Mia had a tendency to bite anyone who came into her space.
Mia's situation serves as a clear reminder of why exotic animals are not suited to being kept as pets. Her owner, despite his affection for her, recognized the need for change and expressed to Bobbi that Wyoming should cease issuing permits that allow wild animals to be kept as pets. This issue aligns with the efforts of Lions Tigers & Bears, who have been actively working to advocate for legislation prohibiting the private ownership of wild animals.
When Mia's owner was no longer able to care for her, he reached out to LTB to find her a new home. Upon her arrival at Lions Tigers & Bears, Mia had to adapt to a very different life, transitioning to an outside habitat and becoming acquainted with other bobcats, an opportunity she had never had before.