7 Hybrid Cats Breeds

2024-08-04
7 Hybrid Cats Breeds

If you want a unique-looking feline that has wild stripes and spots, large eyes, and other distinguishing features, check out these seven hybrid cat breeds. Hybrid cat breeds are created when a domestic cat is bred with an undomesticated or wild cat breed.

This breeding may be done in an attempt to get more wild patterns, colors, and other physical features, or to combine favorite personality traits and other attributes of domestic and wild cats.

Tips

While hybrid cats often look like domestic cats, many early generations can have very wild personality traits that may make them more of a challenge to care for when compared to domestic house cats.

Breed Characteristics

Some hybrid cat breeds are more mischievous and active than others, but they all can have very wild instincts. First, second, and sometimes even third generations of hybrid cats will have more of these wild traits than later generations so pet owners that are interested in getting a hybrid cat breed should be aware of this. More mental and physical enrichment will be required for these earlier generations.

Here are seven hybrid cat breeds that have grown in popularity over the years.

  • 01 of 07

    Bengal Cat

    Bengal cats, not to be confused with Bengal tigers, are a hybrid cat breed that has combined the Asian leopard cat with various domestic cats, especially the Egyptian mau. These cats are known for their wild-looking spots and marbling, but they also often like water and have very dog-like personalities. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, progressive retinal atrophy, and pyruvate kinase deficiency are three diseases that Bengal cats may be predisposed to developing.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 13 to 16 inches

    Weight: 8 to 15 lbs.

    Coat and Color: Short hair, wide variety of colors with spots, rosettes, or marbling

    Life Expectancy: 9 to 15 years

  • 02 of 07

    Savannah Cat

    Taller than the Bengal cat, Savannah cats are also spotted hybrid cats that are popular for their exotic markings. They are a cross between a serval and a domestic cat and are the largest type of recognized and registered pet cat breed. Some states and cities have laws against owning Savannah cats, especially earlier generations of them, but most recognize them as domesticated pets.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 14 to 17 inches

    Weight: 7.5 to 24 lbs.

    Coat and Color: Short hair, brown, silver, or black colors with spots

    Life Expectancy: 12 to 20 years

  • 03 of 07

    Chausie

    Chausies are a cross between jungle cats and domestic cats. They are playful cats that enjoy the company of other cats, dogs, and people and are very social. Chausies are built for running and jumping and also often resemble Abyssinian cats.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 14 to 18 inches

    Weight: 8 to 16 lbs.

    Coat and Color: Short hair, solid black, black grizzled tabby, and black/brown ticked tabby

    Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years

  • 04 of 07

    Serengeti

    Unlike other hybrids, the Serengeti is a cross between two domesticated cat breeds: the Bengal cat and the Oriental shorthair. They have slimmer features than their Bengal cousins but maintain the exotic, spotted coat; the ultimate goal of this breed is to look like a serval without using wild cats to breed. They are very active and agile and maintain the vocal attributes of their Oriental shorthair ancestors.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 10 to 16 inches

    Weight: 8 to 15 lbs.

    Coat and Color: Short hair, variety of colors with spots

    Life Expectancy: 8 to 12 years

    Continue to 5 of 7 below
  • 05 of 07

    Cheetoh

    If you like spots, then you will love cheetoh cats. This newer hybrid cat breed was developed by crossing the Bengal cat with an ocicat in an attempt to create a gentle but wild-looking breed. This hybrid cat is large-bodied but is said to get along well with other pets as well as people. The cheetoh is not as common as the Bengal or Savannah but is growing in popularity due to its striking markings.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 12 to 18 inches

    Weight: 12 to 25 lbs.

    Coat and Color: Short hair, multiple colors with spots.

    Life Expectancy: 10 to 15 years

  • 06 of 07

    Toyger

    If you're after stripes without having a pet tiger, then a toyger may be what you're looking for. Developed by crossing a Bengal cat with a domestic tabby cat, this breed is friendly and highly trainable. Like many other purebred cats, toygers can be prone to developing heart disease but are very playful and make great house cats even though they are not as common as Bengals.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 9 to 13 inches

    Weight: 7 to 15 lbs.

    Coat and Color: Short hair, brown to orange with black stripes

    Life Expectancy: 10 to 15 years

  • 07 of 07

    Pixiebob

    Bred to look like a cross between a bobcat and a domestic cat, pixiebobs are highly social and active cats. Like bobcats, pixiebobs have a bobbed or shorter tail and ear tufts. They make chirping noises and usually have polydactyl toes.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 9 to 13 inches

    Weight: 8 to 17 lbs.

    Coat and Color: Often short-haired but can have long hair, brown, red, or rust color with spotting

    Life Expectancy: 13 to 15 years

Many hybrid cat breeds are recognized as domesticated cats, but like other purebred cats, each breed is known for its own unique features. Researching any breed of cat before committing to caring for it is important for any cat owner, regardless of whether or not you are considering a hybrid.

FAQ
  • Do hybrid cats make good pets?

    Hybrid cats are often more challenging to own than domestic cats because they are crossed with wild cats. This increases the chance that they will be more difficult than a domestic cat.

  • Why are hybrid cats banned?

    Hybrid cats are banned because they are more dangerous than domestic cats and can harm humans—especially children and the elderly.

  • What is the biggest hybrid cat?

    The regal Savannah cat is the largest hybrid house cat; its average weight is 15 to 20 pounds.

Article "tagged" as:

Related Article

75 Unisex Cat Names

75 Unisex Cat Names

Our gender neutral cat names perfect for your feline friend, with a diverse selection of fun and inclusive options to fit your pet's disposition.
Why Does My Cat Stink?

Why Does My Cat Stink?

Is your cat stinky? Find out about the causes of bad odors in cats and when it is something to be concerned about. Learn how to help your stinky cat.
Signs of Rabies in Cats

Signs of Rabies in Cats

Rabies is a fatal and contagious virus that can affect cats. Learn about the signs of rabies in cats and what to do about them.
Can Cats Eat Dog Food?

Can Cats Eat Dog Food?

Can cats eat dog food? In small amounts, it's unlikely to be a problem, but long-term feeding of dog food to cats can cause health issues and malnutrition.
Exploring the Different Types of Pet-Friendly Beaches

Exploring the Different Types of Pet-Friendly Beaches

Are you looking for pet-friendly beaches? Learn about the different types of pet-friendly beaches, their locations, and tips for visiting them with your pet.
Pulled Muscles in Dogs

Pulled Muscles in Dogs

A pulled muscle is one of the most common injuries seen in dogs. What can you do if your dog pulls a muscle and how can you prevent it?
Fibrosarcoma in Cats

Fibrosarcoma in Cats

Fibrosarcomas are potentially fatal soft tissue tumors that can occur in cats. Learn the causes, treatment, and prevention.
Alopecia in Dogs

Alopecia in Dogs

Alopecia leads to hair loss and bald spots in dogs. Some breeds may be more at risk. Learn common causes, treatment, and prevention of dog alopecia.
Is Acetaminophen Safe for Dogs?

Is Acetaminophen Safe for Dogs?

Acetaminophen is used by humans for pain and fever relief, but is it safe for dogs? Here's what you need to know before giving your dog acetaminophen.
Can Dogs Eat Almonds? Understanding the Risks and Guidelines

Can Dogs Eat Almonds? Understanding the Risks and Guidelines

Can dogs eat almonds? While a couple likely won't hurt, it's best to avoid feeding your dog this nut. Learn the risks here.
Keeshond: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

Keeshond: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

Learn about the keeshond dog, also known as the Dutch Barge Dog. This fluffy spitz breed was bred to guard, but also makes a friendly companion.
Is Rosemary Safe for Dogs?

Is Rosemary Safe for Dogs?

Rosemary is used both for cooking and as a supplement with many reported health benefits in people, so you may be wondering if it is safe to give to your dog. Rosemary is considered non-toxic for dogs but with some caveats.
7 Hybrid Cats Breeds

7 Hybrid Cats Breeds

Hybrid cat breeds can make appealing pets since they look more exotic than domestic house cats, but they aren't for everyone.
The Best White Cat Breeds to Keep as Pets

The Best White Cat Breeds to Keep as Pets

Several breeds can result in white cats with long or short hair. Find out the pros and cons of these white cat breeds.
11 Cute Pictures of Ragdoll Cats

11 Cute Pictures of Ragdoll Cats

Ragdoll cats are known for their beautiful coats and bright, blue eyes. Learn all about the breed, and check out some cute pictures here.
7 Reasons Why Your Cat Eats Paper, and How to Stop It

7 Reasons Why Your Cat Eats Paper, and How to Stop It

Is your cat eating paper? Learn why your cat is doing this, and find out how to put a stop to it.
Feist: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

Feist: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

Feists are small, short-haired dogs developed to hunt squirrels and catch vermin. These high-energy, affectionate pooches make great companion animals.
Dogue de Bordeaux (French Mastiff): Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

Dogue de Bordeaux (French Mastiff): Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

Learn about the Dogue de Bordeaux, also called the French mastiff. Although large and muscular, they’re known for their calm and gentle personality.
How to Stop Your Dog From Fearing Men

How to Stop Your Dog From Fearing Men

Many dogs have a phobia of men. Learn how to help your dog overcome its fear through desensitization and training while keeping everyone safe.
Why Dogs Eat Poop and How to Stop Them

Why Dogs Eat Poop and How to Stop Them

Is your dog eating poop? Some dogs do this because of stress or illness. Learn how to prevent stool eating, or coprophagia, in dogs.
Cancel