Wild Cat Breeds: 10 Cats Who Look (or Act) Like They Belong in the Wild

If you’ve ever fantasized about having a wild cat as a pet (just like Jasmine in Aladdin), you may have heard of exotic domesticated wild cat breeds. Created by crossing a domestic cat with a small wild, feline species, these cats were bred to look exotic but act nearly as tame as any other house cat. These breeds, also known as “cat hybrids,” still have wild traits, however, and require a lot more care and attention than most domestic cats.

Here’s everything you need to know about wild cat breeds.

What makes a wild cat breed?

Domesticated wild cat breeds are a cross between a wild cat — like a serval, Asian leopard, or a jungle cat — and a regular, domestic cat. Wild cat hybrids are less tame than traditional house cats because they are so closely related to wild cats. 

While they can be pets, they are very challenging to care for, requiring a lot of exercise, mental stimulation, frequent vet visits, and training to reduce destructive behavior. It’s important to note that there are several cat breeds who are often labeled or sold as “exotic” or “wild” but are not actually hybrids.

Exotic wild cats vs. house cats

Cats haven’t been domesticated nearly as long as dogs, which is why even your average house cat still has a little wild left in them — their stealthiness, the hunting stare, the general sense that they’re just tolerating you. Hybrid wild cats can be affectionate and loyal to their human parents, but they turn that typical cat attitude up a notch. Here are a few differences between house cats and hybrid wild mixes.

Origin

Hybrid wild cats: Hybrid wild cat breeders mark each generation with F followed by a number. That number indicates how far removed the cat is from their wild ancestor. For example, an F1 cat is from the first generation: They will likely still require a raw-meat diet and be much wilder than later generations. 

Generations labeled F4 or later are considered hybrid wild cats, but they often still possess many of the traits and behavioral issues associated with earlier generations, and in many places, F1 through F3 cats are entirely illegal to own. F4 and later generations fall into a legal gray area depending on where you live.

Regular domestic cats: By contrast, house cats are thousands of generations removed from their wild ancestor, the African Wildcat, with roughly 10,000 years of selective breeding for life alongside humans.

Appearance

Hybrid wild cats: Domestic wild cats are bred to have the unique coloring and appearance of their wild ancestors, which can include spots or mottling similar to that of a leopard or cheetah.

Regular domestic cats: Although regular domestic cats come in an enormous range of colors, patterns, and coat lengths, most of them don’t share the same spots as the signature wild look.

Temperament

Hybrid wild cats: Although domestic wild cat breeds can still have wild instincts and be very mischievous, these cats can also be loving and cuddly with their human parents. These breeds tend to be highly intelligent and can be trained to learn tricks. In fact, investing time and energy into training your domestic wild cat can help reduce destructive behaviors.

Regular domestic cats: Domestic cats are plenty smart, too, but their intelligence tends to show up differently — more curiosity and problem-solving than the intense, trainable focus you see in hybrids. Some will absolutely learn tricks, but others would rather just watch you try to train them and simply walk away.

Care requirements

Hybrid wild cats: Unlike most cats, hybrid wild breeds aren’t exactly content entertaining themselves while you’re at work. These kitties need a lot of attention, mental stimulation, and enrichment. Invest in puzzles, games, and new toys in a variety of textures and shapes to keep them occupied.

Because of their active and athletic nature, wild house cats also need regular exercise. These breeds can benefit from leash training, so they can accompany you on daily walks. Make sure to have plenty of places in your home for them to climb, scratch, and play. If your domestic wild cat doesn’t have these designated spaces, they may turn their attention to destroying your furniture and other items in your home.

Regular domestic cats: Most domestic cats are pretty good at self-regulating. A scratching post, a cat tree, and some interactive toys go a long way toward keeping them happy and your furniture intact.

Wild cat breeds

Below you’ll find domesticated wild cat breeds you can adopt from a rescue or shelter if you are ready to commit to their specialized care. Some breeds in this category are far removed from their wild ancestors — the Cheetoh and Toyger, for example, carry wild ancestry only through the Bengal, making them considerably more domesticated in temperament than a first- or second-generation Savannah.

Anastasiia / Adobe Stock/

Chausie

The Chausie is like the Bengal’s more intense, ancient cousin. A cross between a jungle cat and a domestic cat, these kitties have been around since the time of the ancient Egyptians. Chausies are big, athletic, and seriously smart, with the kind of energy that demands your participation. They’re not the type to lounge while you binge TV, and they’ll let you know — loudly, probably by destroying something.

Traits

• Type: Wild cat hybrid

• Height: 14 to 18 inches

• Weight: up to 25 pounds

Gennadiy Naumov / Shutterstock/

Savannah

A combination of the serval and a domestic cat, the Savannah is the second most popular wild hybrid-cat breed. With their stunning coat, this cat looks much like their wild ancestor, a spotted, leggy feline from sub-Saharan Africa. The Savannah is extremely adventurous and enjoys exploring, but can also be very affectionate and loyal to their human parents. Their coats can be brown, silver, snow, or charcoal, and these cats tend to be on the larger side, weighing up to 25 pounds.

Like the Bengal, the Savannah is a wild cat hybrid, which means they may retain many wild traits and require extra care and attention. Some states and cities have laws against owning these wild cats as pets, so be sure to check your local regulations before adopting a Savannah.

Traits

• Type: Wild cat hybrid

• Height: 16 to 18 inches

• Weight: Up to 25 pounds

Caleb Woods / Unsplash/

Bengal

One of the most popular domesticated wild cat breeds is the Bengal, which is a cross between an Asian leopard and a domestic cat (usually an Egyptian Mau). The Asian leopard is one of the smallest wild cats, and this hybrid is incredibly energetic and intelligent. As with most domesticated wild cats, once adopted, Bengals benefit from training, tons of exercise, and plenty of mental stimulation. They retain the Asian leopard’s coat pattern, which features spots and marbling. They also enjoy playing in water and climbing. Most Bengals are many generations removed as the breed is well established.

Traits

• Type: Distant wild ancestry

• Height: 13 to 16 inches

• Weight: 6 to 15 pounds

Photo: Chris Rue/

Cheetoh

The Cheetoh is a Bengal-Ocicat hybrid who, despite their look, is a big softy who loves their people and is highly trainable. These hybrids have some wild DNA in the mix — but this is usually far removed from the source. Still, they pack some big energy. They’re also one of the rarest breeds on this list, and not yet recognized by most major cat registries.

Traits

• Type: Distant wild ancestry

• Height: 14 to 18 inches

• Weight: 20 pounds or more

blickwinkel / Alamy/

Toyger

With bold, tiger-like stripes on a compact, muscular body, the Toyger certainly has a wild look. But unlike the Bengal or Savannah, the Toyger has no wild ancestry at all. They were developed in the 1980s from a cross between a Bengal and a striped Domestic Shorthair, to obtain a miniature-tiger vibe. These kitties are friendly, playful, and easy to train.

Traits

• Type: Distant wild ancestry

• Height: 12 to 15 inches

• Weight: up to 15 pounds

Pardofelis Photography / Alamy/

Serengeti

The Serengeti is a cross between a Bengal and an Oriental Shorthair, which means all that spotted, long-legged drama is purely aesthetic. These cats are a little shy, but warm up quickly and turn into playful, affectionate cats. Oh, and they can jump nearly seven feet straight up. The Serengeti is a pretty rare breed recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA), so you probably won’t find many through shelters and rescues.

Traits

• Type: Distant wild ancestry

• Height: 13 to 16 inches

• Weight: up to 15 pounds

Wild-looking cat breeds

If you want a cat with a wild appearance, but who is still fully domesticated, these wild cat breeds have the look of a tiger or a leopard with the temperament of a traditional domestic cat.

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Egyptian Mau

The Egyptian Mau might be the most historically significant cat on this list, because their ancestors were worshipped in ancient Egypt. This breed is the only naturally spotted domestic breed (no hybrid breeding required), and they can run up to 30 miles per hour, making them one of the fastest domestic cats alive. They tend to bond deeply with their people but can be reserved around strangers, so if you adopt one, expect a cat who’s fiercely loyal rather than universally social.

Traits

• Type: Domestic with wild appearance

• Height: 12 to 14 inches

• Weight: 8 to 12 pounds

Agarianna76 / Shutterstock/

Ocicat

The Ocicat came about when breeders were trying to develop a Siamese with Abyssinian-colored points — and instead got a spotted cat with a wild look who was 100 percent domestic. They were later crossed with an American Shorthair to expand coat colors, and the result is one of the most people-oriented cats you’ll find. This kitty is a great choice for adoption if you love a wild look but want to ensure there’s zero wild cat energy.

Traits

• Type: Domestic with wild appearance

• Height: 9 to 11 inches

• Weight: Up to 15 pounds

Elisa Putti / Shutterstock/

Norwegian Forest Cat

If you want a cat with a wild — even fairytale-like — appearance but all the cuddly traits of a traditional domestic cat, consider the Norwegian Forest Cat. Unlike the Bengal and Savannah, this breed is fully domesticated and originated in Norway, where they lived in the forests for hundreds of years. With their large, muscular bodies and coats in a variety of colors and patterns, the Norwegian Forest Cat is the perfect snuggly companion, friendly and gentle with other people and animals. Pets such as the Norwegian Forest Cat are a great adoption choice for first-time pet parents or those with children.

Traits

• Type: Domestic with wild appearance

• Height: 12 to 18 inches

• Weight: 8 to 18 pounds

Wellington Silva / Pexels/

Maine Coon

Another domestic cat breed with a wild appearance is the massive Maine Coon. These large cats are very graceful despite their size, and their tufted ears, fluffy tails, and luxurious coats are reminiscent of wild felines. Known as the “dogs of the cat world,” the Maine Coon is a gentle giant, affectionate toward their human parents and other pets in the house, making them a fantastic choice for families with children looking to adopt a spirited breed. Instead of wild cat breeds, domestic cats like the Maine Coon give the appearance of wildness with the cuddly temperament of a tame house cat.

Traits

• Type: Domestic with wild appearance

• Height: 10 to 16 inches

• Weight: 9 to 22 pounds

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Special considerations of hybrid wild cats

Domesticated wild cats are beautiful pets, thanks to their exotic ancestry, but they generally require more care than most traditional house cats, making them a poor choice for most cat parents. Consider your lifestyle, and if you have the time and space to devote to a domesticated wild cat breed, before adopting one.

Here’s why they can be appealing to pet parents:

• They are intelligent: Nearly all wild cat breeds are often very smart and affectionate, capable of learning tricks and adapting well to training.

• They adapt well to energetic, active households: These breeds can also be very playful and active, which can make them great companions for people who lead active lifestyles.

• They’re adventurous: With the right amount of leash training, they can join you on walks and hikes.

• They are unique and beautiful in appearance: Domesticated wild cats also have gorgeous coloring, thanks to their exotic ancestry, giving them the elegant appearance of wild cats.

However, there are important factors to consider before you adopt a domesticated wild cat.

• They are expensive: Nearly every wild cat breed can be incredibly expensive, often costing several thousand dollars.

• They have greater exercise needs: They require a lot of attention and exercise, and may exhibit destructive (and even dangerous) behaviors if not properly trained, as well as physically and mentally stimulated.

• They need special diets: These cats also tend to have costly diets, because they often require high-quality cat food and raw meat.

• They may develop health issues: These cats have a propensity to develop health issues that may require expensive surgery or treatment.

• They may require exotic-animal vet care: Not all vets care for domesticated wild cats, so it may be challenging to find proper healthcare for your cat. There are also no rabies vaccines approved for use in hybrids.

• They may develop behavior issues: Some wild cat breeds can be quite territorial and aggressive, so if you have other pets in the home or small children, these cats are likely not for you. They have likewise been known to “hunt” and even hurt others in the home whom they view as prey.

• Destructive: These breeds can be very destructive, and many never adapt to using a litter box, resulting in constant cleanup.

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Adopting a wild cat

Breeding domesticated wild cat breeds is often unethical, especially because there is little to no oversight for these breeding facilities. This is why it’s always best to adopt a cat.

Domesticated wild cat breeds are stunningly beautiful pets, but they require a significant amount of extra care and attention, making them challenging pets for most pet parents. Before adopting a Bengal or Savannah cat, be sure to consider if you have the time and budget for their unique diet, veterinary care, and physical and mental exercise.

If you wish to adopt a cat with a wild appearance who is fully domesticated, consider other breeds such as the Norwegian Forest Cat and Maine Coon, both of whom will be easier to care for and do better with other humans and animals in the home.

Commonly asked questions

Can domesticated wild cats be kept as pets?

These cats are specifically bred to be sold as pets, often for thousands of dollars. Breeders often promise that these wild house cats are tame, but they have no way of knowing which traits or qualities have been bred out of each generation.

Later generations tend to have fewer traits of their wild ancestors, but they often retain more wild qualities than domestic cats. While these cats can be kept as pets, they require significantly more care, exercise, and attention than a house cat, so think twice before adopting one of these breeds.

Are domesticated wild cats more challenging to train or socialize?

Yes, wild cat hybrids can be more challenging to train and keep as pets. These breeds have wild personalities compared to most domestic cats, but are intelligent and can be trained. They can be challenging to socialize with other pets.

What are the challenges of having a domesticated wild cat?

Challenges include their tendency to urinate outside a litter box. They’re also known to bite, even while playing, and may attempt to attack other pets in the home.

References

“Domesticated: Evolution in a Manmade World.” Google Books, 2016. https://books.google.co.in/books?hl=en&lr=&id=eAadBAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PT6&dq=Nearly+Wild+Cat+Breeds:+Bengal,+Savannah,+Norwegian+Forest+Cat,+Maine+Coon,+etc.&ots=XvRFdsgsl5&sig=XZVEbx7rRhRA3iZ8ZgEu7NVzKgA&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q&f=false.

Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. “Importing Wild or Hybrid Cat Species.” agriculture.gov.au, 2023. http://agriculture.gov.au.

Pickeral, Tamsin. Domestic Cats: Their History, Breeds, and Other Facts. Amber Books, 2013. https://books.google.co.in/books?hl=en&lr=&id=RQ63-D3C9wcC&oi=fnd&pg=PA5&dq=Domesticated+wild+cats:+Bengal,+Savannah,+Norwegian+Forest+Cat,+Maine+Coon,+etc.&ots=TWjRQ5NtSW&sig=4czZ14FKYmdIj3R2wnliVm2y_Bs&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q&f=false.

Gershony, L. C., et al. “Who’s behind That Mask and Cape? The Asian Leopard Cat’s Agouti ( ASIP ) Allele Likely Affects Coat Colour Phenotype in the Bengal Cat Breed.” Animal Genetics, vol. 45, no. 6, 20 Aug. 2014, pp. 893–897, https://doi.org/10.1111/age.12206.

‌Martos Martinez-Caja, Ana, et al. “Behavior and Health Issues in Bengal Cats as Perceived by Their Owners: A Descriptive Study.” Journal of Veterinary Behavior, vol. 41, Jan. 2021, pp. 12–21, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2020.10.007.