10 Small Exotic Cat Breeds (With Pictures)

Last Updated on September 25, 2023 by Fumipets

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If you want a wild-appearing cat but don’t like the notion of having a tiger live in your home, you may be searching for tiny exotic breeds from which to pick. Although some of the breeds we have to investigate could need licenses, others might just fit the bill.

There’s no denying that these cats’ powerful, primitive look is really striking. Don’t be fooled by their appearance. Some of these cats make for affectionate lap cats, much like any other cat you may find in a house. Let’s look at these top ten choices.

The 10 Small Exotic Cat Breeds

1. Chausie

By crossing wild jungle cats and the Abyssinian, the remarkable Chausie was produced. Thanks to the assistance of its wild cat ancestors, its amazing muscular physique and piercing eyes provide a highly unique appearance.

Chausies don’t get along with smaller animals since they have a strong prey drive. They typically love their people, nevertheless, and detest being left alone. Apart from the fact that they want continuous companionship, these cats may be highly mischievous and lively.

Chausies generally cost $1,000 to $2,500 per kitten if you purchase from a breeder.

2. Bengal

The result of breeding domestic cats like the Egyptian Mau with the Asian Leopard cat is the gracefully wild Bengal cat. These cats have a strong build and stunning markings that resemble those of a conventional leopard in the forest.

Bangles are renowned for having very magnetic personalities. They are incredibly intelligent and productive. They need the right outlets for their limitless energy in order to prevent them from becoming harmful. The ability to freely run, play, climb, and claw is essential for a healthy Bengal.

An average Bengal kitten will cost between $1,500 and $3,000 if you decide to buy one.

3. Savannah Cat

Savannah cats are huge domestic cats that are becoming more and more popular. There are several breed lines, and each one has a somewhat different appearance and temperament. These cats were created by breeding several typical home cats with a Sevral.

Savannah cats enjoy water, so it’s possible to catch one following you into the shower or attempting to play in your dishwater. These cats are highly devoted and watchful, quick to notice everything around them. If you properly teach them, they can even walk well on leashes.

The price range for a Savannah kitten is from $1,000 to $16,000 and beyond.

4. Ocicat

While the Ocicat seems fairly unusual, there is no proof that wild cats are present in its gene pool. When you divide up the bloodline, only cats that have been domesticated appear. Yet it doesn’t stop them from winning hearts with their striking appearances and distinctive personalities.

Even with unknown dogs and home visitors, occiats are highly gregarious and engaged. They could astound you with how quickly they pick up ideas and can even pick up a few tricks. They behave like dogs due to their intelligence and willingness to learn, making them the ideal pet for those who don’t like cats or their independent ways.

The price range for a gorgeous Ocicat kitten is between $500 and $1,200.

5. Toyger

The recently created Toyger is a unique breed created to resemble a Tiger but in toy form (hence the name.) Nonetheless, unlike Bengal and common tabby cats, this feline has no discernible wild ancestry. Breeders were able to provide all of the tough looks owners sought thanks to careful breeding.

Toygers often have excellent social skills with their owners and get along well with other animals. Another cat breed that is particularly trainable on a leash is this one. So, you are free to accompany your child on a night out.

Typically, a Toyger kitten costs between $1,200 and $3,500.

6. Pixie-bob

The Pixie-bob cat has an intriguing resemblance to a bobcat or lynx in the wild. About where this breed came from, there is considerable conjecture. Yet, historically speaking, breeders often combine a conventional barn cat with a bobcat. All pixie-bobs feature the traditional bobtail, which gives them all their own distinctive look.

Pixie-bobs are often kind and submissive; they are neither combative nor tense. They like taking naps in their favorite areas around the home, but if the mood hits, they won’t turn down fun.

The price range for a Pixie-Bob kitten is between $1,800 and $3,000.

7. Fishing Cat

Southeast Asia is home to a type of wild cats known as fishing cats. They aren’t conventional pets since they haven’t been domesticated, although knowledgeable owners of large cats may decide to retain them. They are well-suited for living in the environment because of their strong physique and instinctive nature.

Nonetheless, attempts to domesticate these creatures continue. If you’re curious, you should realize that only very knowledgeable individuals with suitable living arrangements should possess one of these animals. It’s quite improbable that these are typical home cats.

A fishing cat cannot be owned without the proper permissions or licenses, and they are not permitted in all states. According to age and quality, though, expect to spend between $1,000 and $20,000 if you follow local regulations and go through the necessary hoops to get authorization.

8. Geoffrey’s Cat

Wild cats that are endemic to South America include the Geoffrey’s cat. Although being often maintained as pets, these cats have not been domesticated with other breeds. In fact, since they are so vulnerable to extinction, breeders are urged to keep them in captivity.

These cats hunt at night, therefore that is when they are most active. They won’t behave like typical domestic cats because of their wild origins. Before possessing one, permission or license is often needed.

The cats owned by Geoffrey are very rare and vulnerable. Yet, if you’re fortunate, you could come upon one of these stunning specimens. For one cat, budget between $7,000 and $10,000.

9. Abyssinian

A rare breed, the elegant Abyssinian has a ticking tabby coat. One of the earliest cat breeds in recorded human history, it is believed that this species originated in Ethiopia. Yet it remains one of the most well-liked breeds in the world even now.

The Abyssinian is a calm yet very active cat. They have a strong tendency to attract people and exhibit inquiring personalities. If you have one of these cats in your house, make sure there are plenty of perches up high where they can hang out since they simply like climbing.

A trustworthy breeder would likely charge between $500 and $1,200 for the lovely Abyssinian cat.

10. Egyptian Mau

The Egyptian Mau is a cat that exudes wild-like energy and has striking traits, including their distinctive gooseberry green eyes. The only naturally spotted domestic cat breed is this little cutie.

For these cats, early socializing is essential. They have the propensity to be quite kind and mild—even wary of strangers. They may not be fond of strangers, but they develop close relationships with their owners. This breed could function best in a calm, peaceful environment without children.

An Egyptian Mau will cost you between $800 and $1,800 to purchase.

Conclusion

You can now examine the wide variety of little exotic breeds available to you. Each of these unique cats has its own personality and sense of flair. All of them, even the ones you can’t directly keep as a pet, are lovely in their own way.

Please bear in mind that choosing a real wild animal carries a lot of responsibility. Hence, if you decide to take on the task, be certain that you have the requisite experience.

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