Have you ever wished you could have a tiger as a pet? While that might not be the best idea (or even legal), some cat breeds resemble tigers so much that they could fool you at a glance! These domestic cats have a wild side, boasting bold stripes, long legs, and exotic appearances that mirror their bigger feline cousins. Their stunning coats, muscular builds, and piercing eyes make them look like they just walked out of the jungle. But despite their fierce looks, these cats are loving, affectionate, and make excellent companions.
These tiger-like felines come in a variety of breeds, each with its own unique charm. Some, like the Toyger, have been specifically bred to resemble tigers, while others, like the Bengal and Savannah, have wild ancestry that gives them their exotic appearance.
So, what makes these wild-looking cats so special? Let’s explore the most fascinating cats that look like tigers and uncover their origins, traits, and why they might be the perfect pet for you!
Cat Breeds That Look Like Tigers
1. Toyger
If you ever wanted a tiger in your living room, the Toyger is your best bet! This hybrid breed was specifically created to resemble a wild tiger, complete with bold tabby stripes, a muscular build, and an exotic temperament. The Toyger was developed by breeder Judy Sugden in the 1980s, using Bengal cats and American Shorthairs to create a domesticated feline that mirrors a tiger’s appearance.
A Toyger typically weighs between 7-15 lbs and has a life expectancy of 12-15 years. They’re affectionate, energetic, and get along well with humans, other pets, and even dogs.
They bond deeply with their families and thrive on attention, making them ideal for active households that can keep up with their playful spirit. They love to walk around the house like they own the world—just like a real tiger would!
Despite their wild look, they are excellent family companions, making them perfect for anyone who wants a pet with an exotic touch! These cats are considered domestic but retain the striking appearance of their wild ancestors. With their golden coats, dark stripes, and wild feline energy, Toygers are one of the most striking cat breeds.
Their maintenance is relatively easy, as their short coat only requires occasional brushing to keep it shiny and healthy. If you want a cat that looks like a tiger but acts like a playful, loving companion, the Toyger is a perfect choice. They bring a bit of the jungle into your home while being affectionate and loyal pets.
2. Ocicat
The Ocicat is one of the most uncommon domestic cat breeds that look like tigers. With their vibrant orange coats and dark stripes, they are often mistaken for their wild counterparts. Though not officially recognized by major cat associations, these striking felines are believed to be a naturally occurring breed or a result of cross breeding among tabby cats with strong tiger-like markings.
According to PetMD, these cats weighing around 8-14 lbs, these felines have a life expectancy of 12-16 years. They have a confident temperament and often display dog-like loyalty, following their owners around and engaging in interactive play.
This breed is energetic, curious, and always ready to play. If you have birds or other pets at home, be aware—they love to chase! Their long legs give them an agile nature, making them excellent climbers and hunters.
Though they may have a wild side, Ocicats are sweet and affectionate. They bond deeply with their family and love to be the center of attention. Their intelligence and playful demeanor make them perfect for families looking for an active and entertaining pet.
They are playful, adventurous, and perfect for owners who want a cat that looks like tigers with a fierce appearance. With their short, low-maintenance coat, they require minimal grooming, making them an easy-to-care-for breed.
3. Savannah
A stunning mix of domestic and wild, the Savannah cat is a cross between a domestic cat and a serval, an African wild cat known for its tall, slender build. These felines have a majestic presence, resembling wild felines like leopards and tigers. Their large ears, long legs, and exotic coat patterns make them one of the most visually captivating domestic cats in the world.
These wild-looking beauties weigh between 12-25 lbs and have a life expectancy of 12-20 years. These cats are highly trainable and can even be taught to walk on a leash, making them ideal for adventurous pet owners.
Savannahs are known for their intelligence, curiosity, and high energy levels. They love to jump, play, and explore, making them one of the most active cat breeds. If you’re considering a Savannah, be prepared for a lot of action!
Due to their wild ancestors, Savannah cats can behave differently from typical domesticated cats. They require plenty of space, stimulation, and playtime. While they can be affectionate, they are not lap cats; instead, they prefer interactive play and physical activities.
They are not your average house cat but make incredibly loyal and affectionate pets! Their grooming needs are minimal, but they require a high-protein diet and lots of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
4. Abyssinian
One of the oldest and most elegant cat breeds, the Abyssinian has an exotic appearance that closely resembles ancient wild felines. While they don’t have the bold stripes of a tiger, their ticked coat pattern gives them a uniquely wild and untamed look.
Abyssinians typically weigh between 6-10 lbs and have a life expectancy of 14-16 years. With a sleek, muscular body, long legs, and large, expressive eyes, they exude the grace of a jungle predator as noted by Purina. Their warm, golden-brown coat colour with darker ticking creates a subtle resemblance to the other wild cats of Africa.
Abyssinians are known for their high energy and playful personality. Their intelligence and curiosity make them quick learners, and they love puzzle toys, climbing trees, and even learning tricks. Despite their wild look, they are incredibly affectionate and enjoy bonding with their owners.
While Abyssinians love attention, they are not lap cats. Instead of cuddling, they prefer to walk around the house, watching everything like little wild hunters. They are generally healthy cats but require regular vet checkups to maintain their well-being.
If you’re looking for a wild-looking and energetic cat, the Abyssinian is a fantastic choice. They bring a touch of the jungle into your home while still being a loving companion who enjoys playing and exploring every corner of their surroundings.
5. Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau is the only naturally spotted domesticated cat breed, making it look like a mix between a tiger and a leopard. These cats have a unique history, dating back to Ancient Egypt, where they were revered and even worshipped. Egyptian Mau cats were often depicted in Egyptian artwork and were considered sacred animals.
These wild-looking beauties weigh between 7-12 lbs and have a life expectancy of 13-16 years. Their stunning appearance, paired with their long legs and athletic build, gives them a striking resemblance to wild felines.
These cats are also extremely intelligent and can learn tricks, play fetch, and even open doors! However, they can be shy around strangers, making them best suited for a calm and patient household. They require an active lifestyle with plenty of playtime and attention.
Egyptian Maus are one of the fastest domestic cats, reaching speeds of up to 30 mph! Their long legs and agile bodies allow them to sprint effortlessly, and they love to chase toys or other pets around the house.
Despite their wild side, Egyptian Maus are affectionate, playful, and sociable. They love to engage with their family members and are known for their loyal and devoted nature. Their affectionate nature and love for interaction make them great companions for families looking for a unique and exotic feline friend.
6. Serengeti
The Serengeti cat is a hybrid breed, developed from a mix of a Bengal cat and an Oriental Shorthair. The goal was to create a domestic cat that resembled the wild serval but without any direct wild ancestry. The result? A stunning feline with long legs, a lean build, and a beautifully spotted coat that makes them look like mini jungle cats!
These wild-looking cats typically weigh between 8-15 lbs and have a life expectancy of 12-15 years. This breed is extremely energetic, playful, and curious. Serengetis love to climb, jump, and run, making them one of the most active domestic breeds.
Despite their wild appearance, Serengetis are affectionate and love to bond with their owners. They enjoy being around people and will often follow their humans from room to room, watching their every move. While they can be independent, they crave companionship and can become lonely if left alone for too long.
They require an enriched environment with plenty of climbing spaces, interactive toys, and areas to explore. If you have a busy household or love an active pet, the Serengeti will bring excitement and energy into your home!
If you’re searching for a wild-looking yet affectionate cat, the Serengeti is the perfect mix of beauty and personality. They look like they belong in the wild but have all the loving qualities of a domestic pet.
7. Bengal
If there’s one breed that truly looks like a tiger, it’s the Bengal wild cat! With its bold spotted coat, muscular build, and exotic markings, the Bengal is a showstopper. In accordance with WebMD, this breed was developed by cross breeding domestic cats with the Asian leopard cat, giving them a strong resemblance to wild felines like leopards and ocelots.
Bengals typically weigh between 8-18 lbs and have a life expectancy of 12-16 years. Bengals are highly intelligent and extremely energetic. They love to run, jump, and even swim, making them one of the most active domestic breeds. If you’re looking for a cat that will keep you on your toes, a Bengal won’t disappoint!
Despite their wild side, Bengals are affectionate and deeply bonded with their owners. They are curious, social, and love being involved in family activities. They often follow their humans around, eager to see what’s happening. Bengals also have a unique, sweet chirping sound that they use to communicate, making them even more endearing.
Their luxurious coat is not only stunning but also hypoallergenic, making them a great option for people with mild allergies. However, their high energy levels and need for stimulation mean they are best suited for active households.
If you want a cat that looks like a tiger with the appearance of a wild feline, the Bengal cat breed is the ultimate choice. They bring the beauty of the jungle into your home while offering the loyalty and affection of a family pet!
Conclusion
Cats that look like tigers are some of the most stunning and unique pets in the world. Whether you prefer the bold Toyger, the playful Bengal, or the elegant Egyptian Mau, these wild-looking felines bring excitement and beauty into your home. While they may look fierce, these breeds are loving, loyal, and full of personality.
Owning a cat that resembles a tiger means you get the best of both worlds—a striking, exotic appearance combined with the affectionate nature of a domestic pet. These cats thrive in interactive environments where they can play, explore, and bond with their humans.
So, which of these tiger-like cats do you find the most fascinating? Which of these cats that look like a tiger is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
