When most people think of cats, they imagine furry companions that purr contentedly and curl up in cozy corners. However, there are some scary looking cat breeds that defy this typical image. From hairless cats to wild cat looks that could make anyone do a double take, these weird looking cats have captivated animal lovers worldwide. They might send a shiver down your spine at first glance, but beneath their eerie appearances lies a unique charm and affectionate nature.
What makes these cats so scary? Is it their curly coat, their hairless body, or perhaps their large ears that seem to be permanently perched at odd angles? Whether you’re a fan of munchkin cats, sphynx cats, or other unusual felines, you’ll find that these breeds bring more to the table than just a spooky look. Let’s dive into these fascinating cat breeds that challenge the typical idea of feline beauty.
Get ready for a journey into the world of the unusual and the unique. From the hairless breeds to the curly-coated cats, you’ll see how these scary looking cat breeds can be just as lovable, quirky, and affectionate as their more traditional counterparts.
Scary Looking Cat Breeds
1. American Curl
The American Curl is one of the most distinctively scary looking cat breeds, primarily due to its unique ears. Unlike most cats, the American Curl has ears that curl backward, creating a look that’s almost alien. This curly coat breed has a fine, silky texture, and despite their unusual appearance, they’re remarkably sweet and affectionate.
Its kittens are born with straight ears, but within three to five days, their ears begin to curl backward, gradually developing into the distinct shape that defines the breed. This genetic trait makes the American Curl one of the most recognizable and intriguing cat breeds in the world.
Many first-time owners of an American Curl might be taken aback by their ears, but once they see how playful and friendly this breed can be, all fears melt away. Their large, expressive eyes and elongated bodies add to their unique look. It’s almost as if they were bred for a wild cat environment, yet they’ve adapted perfectly to home life.
In their adult life, according to PetMD, American Curls tend to develop into friendly and energetic companions. They’re known to be curious and mischievous, so be prepared for a cat that’s always into something new.
It’s also worth noting that they’re generally quite healthy, though, like all breeds, they can be prone to specific health concerns. Still, their quirky appearance and loving personality make them a joy to have around the house. If you can get past their scary look, you’ll find a cat that’s affectionate, playful, and full of surprises.
2. Cornish Rex
With its curly coat and large, expressive eyes, the Cornish Rex is often mistaken for an alien creature from a sci-fi movie. This breed’s smooth, sleek body and wrinkled skin give it a scary appearance, but it’s the breed’s personality that tells a different story.
The Cornish Rex is affectionate, loving, and incredibly playful—traits that make it an ideal companion for animal lovers.
These weird looking cats are also known for their active, curious nature. Cornish Rex cats love to climb, jump, and explore, which means you’ll never have a dull moment with one of these felines around. Despite their alien-like looks, they enjoy human interaction and often seek out attention from their owners.
One feature that sets them apart from other cats is their curly coat. The soft, velvety fur is the result of a natural genetic mutation, and while it may look unusual, it’s surprisingly easy to care for. Unlike most cats, the Cornish Rex doesn’t shed much, which makes them an appealing option for those with allergies. However, they do require regular bathing to keep their skin clean and healthy.
In terms of health, the Cornish Rex is generally a hardy breed, though it can be prone to certain conditions, such as hip dysplasia and heart disease. That said, with the right care and attention, these cats can live long, happy lives.
If you’re looking for a funny looking cat with an extraordinary personality, the Cornish Rex might just be the breed for you. Their curly coat and large ears give them a distinct, somewhat intimidating appearance, but their playful antics and affectionate behavior will make you forget about their scary exterior.
3. Devon Rex
The Devon Rex is another breed that is often compared to the Cornish Rex, but it has its own distinct look. With a curly coat, large ears, and an oversized, expressive face, this breed is truly one of the scariest looking cat breeds around. Its wild cat features are paired with a mischievous, playful personality that surprises many cat lovers.
This breed’s curly coat and short, delicate legs give it an almost otherworldly appearance. The Devon Rex is often referred to as a “pixie” or “elf” cat because of its small size and unusual features.
However, despite its somewhat intimidating look, the Devon Rex is known for being incredibly affectionate and social. They’re very attached to their owners and will often follow them from room to room, demanding attention.
Their large ears and big eyes give them a unique look that can be a little unsettling at first, but it’s their sweet nature that makes them so endearing. The Devon Rex is playful and active, always ready for a game of fetch or a new adventure. They also tend to be very vocal, letting you know exactly what’s on their mind.
However, as with all breeds, the Devon Rex can be prone to health problems, such as skin issues and heart conditions. According to Hillspet, their delicate skin requires special care, so regular grooming is essential. But their fur is very fragile, hence they should never be brushed.
4. Donskoy
The Donskoy is often referred to as the Russian hairless cat, and it’s easy to see why—this breed’s lack of fur and wrinkled skin give it a distinctly eerie appearance. With its hairless body and intense, almond-shaped eyes, the Donskoy could easily be mistaken for a creature from another world. Yet, this wild cat look is paired with an affectionate and loving personality that can melt the heart of anyone who meets it.
While their scary looking appearance might be unsettling at first, the Donskoy is known to be an incredibly friendly and affectionate breed. They love to be around their owners and will often follow them from room to room, demanding attention and affection. Despite their intimidating look, these cats are known for being sweet, playful, and even a bit funny looking with their quirky behaviors.
Because the Donskoy is hairless, they require extra care to maintain their skin health. They may be prone to skin issues and need regular baths to keep their skin free from oils and dirt. Despite this, many owners of Donskoy cats find the extra care to be well worth it. Their affectionate nature and unique look make them a breed unlike any other.
This breed is also quite energetic and playful, making them a great companion for active households. They enjoy games and love to climb, jump, and explore. If you’re looking for a cat with a wild cat vibe and an endearing personality, the Donskoy might just be the scary looking cat you’ve been waiting for.
Though their scary look may deter some, those who are willing to embrace the Donskoy find a loyal, affectionate companion that’s as quirky and lovable as any regular cat. Their hairless body and wrinkled skin are just part of their charm, and their sweet nature will win you over in no time.
5. Elf Cat
The Elf Cat is a hybrid breed that combines the Sphynx and American Curl. With its hairless body and curly ears, the Elf Cat has an almost otherworldly appearance that can be both scary and adorable at the same time. Their unique look is matched by their loving and affectionate nature, making them a fascinating addition to the world of hairless breeds.
They are often found curling up with their owners or seeking out playtime whenever they can. Their large eyes and unique features make them impossible to ignore, and their sweet personality will quickly win you over.
One thing that sets this cat breed apart from other hairless breeds is its adaptability. These cats are known for being highly adaptable to different environments, making them great pets for both city and country living. They’re also quite social and will get along well with other pets, including dogs and munchkin cats.
Despite their scary looking appearance, the Elf Cat is surprisingly easy to care for. Their hairless body means they won’t shed like other cats, but they do require regular bathing to keep their skin healthy and free of oils. While they might look a bit intimidating at first, the Elf Cat is just as adorable as it is unusual.
If you’re ready for a cat with a unique look, a great sense of humor, and an affectionate personality, the Elf Cat might just be the perfect addition to your family. It may be one of the scariest looking cats at first glance, but once you get to know it, you’ll find a playful, lovable companion.
6. Japanese Bobtail
The Japanese Bobtail is a breed that has long captured the imagination of many. With its signature bobbed tail, this breed might not seem overtly scary, but its distinctive appearance is undeniably unique. The bobtail is the defining feature, giving these cats an almost alien-like vibe, especially when they turn around to show off their tiny, curled tail.
It’s almost as though the cat has a tail that doesn’t belong to a regular feline! But don’t let that unusual feature fool you, the Japanese Bobtail is a playful, intelligent cat with a lot of personality.
Their eyes are large, expressive, and often a striking shade of gold or green, which adds to their slightly mysterious appearance. They have a lean and athletic build, and their overall frame gives them a wild cat feel.
The ears are often large and upright, adding to the cat’s alert and curious look. Combined with their bobbed tail and mischievous expressions, Japanese Bobtails can look slightly scary at first, but they’re incredibly affectionate and loyal companions.
In terms of temperament, these cats are quite playful and energetic. They enjoy jumping, climbing, and engaging in activities that keep them on the move. Their playful behavior often leaves their owners laughing, and their quirky personalities make them stand out. But while they may look like creatures from another world, these cats have an undeniable charm and are adored by those who appreciate their unique appearance.
Because they are so active and intelligent, they require stimulation. Japanese Bobtails are known to play fetch, and they enjoy interacting with their humans in a way that many other cats do not. Their outgoing nature and oddly cute appearance quickly make them lovable, despite their initially scary look.
7. Khao Manee
According to WebMD, the Khao Manee, also known as the “White Gem” cat, is a rare breed hailing from Thailand, and it’s known for its captivating, all-white coat and large, round eyes. These cats can look somewhat scary due to their intense gaze, which often appears hypnotic or otherworldly.
Their eyes are usually a striking shade of blue, gold, or even odd-eyed (one of each), which adds to their mysterious, eerie look. The combination of their pure white coat and mesmerizing eyes gives them an almost ghostly appearance—like something out of a supernatural tale.
Despite their scary appearance, the Khao Manee is known for being affectionate, playful, and extremely loyal to its human companions. They tend to form strong bonds with their families and are incredibly social. Although they may look distant or aloof, these cats love human company and will follow their owners around, seeking out attention and affection.
Their sleek, muscular body and regal posture add to their striking appearance. However, it’s their eyes that continue to be their most notable feature. They are known for making deep, direct eye contact, which can sometimes feel a bit intimidating if you’re not used to it. But this trait is part of their charm, and it only enhances their allure to many animal lovers who appreciate their mysterious and intimidating look.
The Khao Manee is a naturally healthy breed and requires relatively little grooming due to its short, smooth coat. Their eyes and intelligence make them an active breed, and they require mental stimulation to stay happy. These cats are often quick learners and can even be trained to fetch or walk on a leash.
8. Lambkin
At first glance, the Lambkin might appear more cute than scary, but its unique features give it a strange and eerie look. This breed is a cross between the Munchkin and the Selkirk Rex, and it has inherited some striking characteristics.
With its curly coat and short, stubby legs, the Lambkin has a distinctly unusual look that can be perceived as odd or funny looking. Its compact, round face, combined with its curly fur, creates an almost stuffed-animal-like appearance that some might find chilling at first.
Their round face, small stature, and curly fur make the Lambkin look as though it has stepped right out of a fantasy novel. While this breed may not seem terrifying at first, its exaggerated features can evoke a sense of unease—especially when its big, round eyes are staring directly at you. It’s these very features that make it stand out in the world of scary looking cats.
Despite its strange appearance, the Lambkin is known for being playful, affectionate, and very social. These cats thrive on attention and will happily curl up on your lap for cuddles after a long day of playing. They are curious and interactive, and they often enjoy following their owners around the house.
Due to their curly coat, this cat breed requires regular grooming to prevent matting, which might seem a bit high maintenance for some owners. However, their quirky appearance and sweet demeanor make the grooming process worth it. They also need a warm, comfortable environment because their short legs make them more susceptible to cold temperatures.
9. LaPerm
The LaPerm is another scary looking cat breed with a curly coat that can be both charming and intimidating. With its tousled fur and distinctive, slightly messy curls, this breed doesn’t conform to traditional ideas of feline beauty.
The LaPerm’s coat can range from soft waves to tight, corkscrew curls, giving it an odd and strange appearance that is sure to draw attention. It almost seems as though the LaPerm had one too many adventures in a windstorm!
But what makes the LaPerm stand out isn’t just its curly coat, but its large, expressive ears and wide eyes, which give it a look that’s both curious and somewhat otherworldly. The LaPerm’s unique coat is the result of a genetic mutation that has given this breed its signature texture. Its appearance might remind you of a wild cat, but its personality is far from feral.
The LaPerm is often seen following its owners from room to room, seeking out attention and affection. Their outgoing personality and quirky appearance make them an interesting and lovable companion.
Despite their scary looking exterior, LaPerms are incredibly gentle and affectionate, making them ideal pets for families and individuals alike. Their curly coat requires regular care to avoid matting, but the grooming process is relatively simple compared to other hairless breeds. As long as you keep up with their care, the LaPerm will remain a loyal, playful, and fun-loving companion.
Conclusion
Whether it’s the hairless bodies of the Sphynx or the curly coats of the LaPerm, each of these scary looking cat breeds has something unique to offer. From their alien-like ears to their strange fur textures, these cats may look intimidating at first, but their loving, affectionate nature quickly wins over anyone who takes the time to get to know them.
So, next time you see a scary looking cat breed, remember that beneath that wild cat appearance is a playful, quirky, and loving companion ready to become part of your family.
Would you dare to bring home one of these scary but adorable cats? Let us know in the comments below! The choice is yours, but one thing’s for sure: life will never be boring with one of these unique cats by your side.
