12 of the Most Beautiful Exotic Cat Breeds in the World
There are many breeds of cats. Some species are rarer, with more wild and exotic appearances, making them distinct even among domesticated cats. From memorable ears to cute stumps for tails, here are some exotic cat breeds to fall in love with. Prepare to be smitten and fall head over paws for these extraordinary feline companions.
As we dive into this captivating world of exotic cat breeds, you’ll not only admire their physical beauty but also learn about their unique personalities and characteristics that make them truly exceptional pets.
1. Toyger
Looking at their appearance, it’s easy to see how the Toyger cat got their name. Bred between a striped domestic shorthair and a Bengal, they resemble a tiger, hence the name that blends the words “toy” and “tiger.” Friendly and intelligent, this breed is distinct with its wild tiger features.
2. Savannah
Upon first seeing them, I wanted a Savannah cat. Unfortunately, for some states, mine included, having them is illegal. The reason being they are a mix between a domestic and a serval. As such, this breed is wilder than others but has that unique mix of stripes and spots the Serval possesses. They can also grow quite large, with slender necks and large ears.
3. Ocicat
Named for its resemblance to the ocelot, the Ocicat is known for its spotted fur, looking closer to a wild cat than a domestic. Despite its exotic appearance, it is an all-domestic kitty. They have almond-shaped eyes and long, muscular bodies, and long tails. They look playful and intelligent.
4. Scottish Fold
Scottish Folds came about from a genetic mutation in the 1960s. They have distinct round heads and bodies with the characteristic trait of folded ears. It’s adorable and disconcerting since most cats’ ears go down when upset. They come in various colors since people breed them with British shorthairs and other domestic cats. However, not every kitten in the litter will have folded ears.
5. Bombay
Bombay is a rare breed of black cat that gets its name from a former city in India that is now called Mumbai. To create them, breeders mix a sable Burmese cat with a black American Shorthair to get that sleek, glossy appearance. Their nose and paw pads are also black, and have gorgeous green eyes. So it’s easy to understand why they are beloved for their panther-like appearance.
6. Kurilian Bobtail
Kurilian Bobtails are incredibly cute with their short, pointy ears. They can have short or long hair and have solid colors or blends like calico and tabby. Their signature pom-pom tail is less than five inches long. The breed developed naturally on remote islands in Russia, is laidback, and loves to cuddle.
7. Ragdoll
Ragdolls have semi-long hair and look similar in shading to Burmese cats. The first Ragdoll originated from breeding cats with a long-haired white domestic cat. They usually have a light or white coat, while their limbs, ears, face, and tail are darker and blue eyes.
8. Manx
Manx cats have short stubby tails, round heads, and eyes like the Kurilian Bobtail. Originating on the Isle of Man, the Manx cat’s front legs are shorter than their back. As such, their rounded rear end is higher than their shoulders. They can have different eye colors, coat colors, and shading.
9. Bengal
The Bengal cat’s resemblance to a leopard is apparent and gorgeous. Everything about them is long; long bodies and tails. Also, like the Manx cat, their front legs are longer than the back. Bengal cats originate from breeding domestic cats with Asian leopards.
10. Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau has spots like the Ocicat, but their spots are on their coat and skin. They are muscular with almond-shaped green eyes and run very fast. Besides their looks, the Egyptian Mau is loving and loyal and enjoys cuddling in their owner’s lap.
11. Serengeti
The Serengeti is stunning, and it is hard to believe it’s a domesticated cat. This breed comes from mixing a Bengal with an Oriental Shorthair cat. With triangular faces, long bodies, and round-tipped ears, this extraordinary animal can jump seven feet in the air. They have short shiny coats of gold with black spots.
12. Selkirk Rex
Selkirk Rex cats look like fuzzy rugs. They are muscular, and their curls stand out more as adults. This is a newer breed from a mutation in the 80s. Their ears sit lower, and their curls make them look like a blend of cat and sheep. Their coat can be any color, as well as their eye color.
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Hi, I’m Jenny Dean, creator of Floppycats! Ever since my Aunt got the first Ragdoll cat in our family, I have loved the breed. Inspired by my childhood Ragdoll cat, Rags, I created Floppycats to connect, share and inspire other Ragdoll cat lovers around the world,
