As cute and cuddly as tigers look, it's probably not news to you that they don't make for the best pets. What you may not know, however, is that there are plenty of domestic cats that bear a pretty wild resemblance to wilder felines. Rather than an American Shorthair or a tabby, you might consider a cat that looks like a tiger for your next family pet. Whether you choose to let them roam outdoors or stay inside, cats that look like tigers are not only incredibly beautiful — they’ll also make a very cool addition to your home.
From spotted to striped, we’ve rounded up the eight cat breeds that most resemble their big-boned relatives (and are most likely to make your friends and family do a double-take). After all, your household probably already feels like a circus, so why not make it official with a house cat that might as well be a wildcat?
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1
Bengal
Created by crossing a small Asian Leopard Cat with a domestic cat, Vet Street notes that the Bengal has the look of a wildcat with the size and tameness of a house cat. This cat is known for its gorgeous marbled or spotted coat, which comes in many colors, as well as its tendency to be highly active and curious. If you're looking for a laid-back lap cat, the Bengal is probably not for you.
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2
Toyger
According to VetStreet, the Toyger is a cross between a Bengal cat and a striped domestic shorthair, resulting in a medium-sized cat with tiger-like branching stripes and orange-and-black or brown coloration. This muscular cat has a sweet, calm personality and is known for being outgoing and friendly, making it perfect for families (even those with small children and other pets!).
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3
Oricat
Named for its resemblance to the Ocelot (a small spotted and striped wildcat), the Oricat is created by crossing Siamese and Abyssinian cats, as well as American Shorthairs, according to the Cat Fancier Association. It is the only spotted domestic breed selectively bred to look like wildcats. This cat is large, athletic, and varies in appearance, coming in a dozen different colors.
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4
Savannah
Known as the largest domesticated cat breed, according to F1Hybrids, the Savannah is a cross between a domestic cat and a Serval, which is a medium-sized, large-eared African wildcat. This cat has a cheetah-like appearance, with dark tear stains around its eyes, a vibrant-colored coat, huge ears, and long legs. Just don't keep this guy cooped up — he needs plenty of exercise.
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5
Abyssinian
Thought to be one of the oldest cat breeds, according to Vet Street, the Abyssinian is recognized for its ticked coat, which comes in a variety of colors and gives the Abyssinian the look of a small African wildcat. With its high intelligence and energy, this cat definitely isn't lazy. But be warned if you have other cats — this one likes to be the only feline in the house.
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6
Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau may be best known for its wild agility and speed, but CFA notes that it is also the only domesticated cat with a naturally occurring spotted coat. You'll also find this cat to be exceptionally intelligent and fiercely loyal, making it the perfect companion.
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7
Cheetoh
Pet Guide notes that the Cheetoh is a cross between the Ocicat and the Bengal. But despite being far removed from its wildcat ancestors, the Cheetoh looks just as wild as the jungle cats it is bred to resemble. First created in 2001 by breeder Carol Drymon, the breed is still fairly new, but this cat has already developed a reputation for being sweet, social, easy to train, and a great family pet.
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8
Serengeti
First developed by crossing a Bengal and an Oriental Shorthair, according to Pet Guide, the Serengeti is easily recognized by its spotted coat and long, rounded ears, giving it the appearance of a Serval (despite not being related to the Serval). Friendly and self-assured, this medium-sized cat is known for getting along well with people and fellow pets alike, as well as for scaling to impressive heights.
