Toyger cats are a new breed of hybrid cats that resemble tigers in their body markings and possess many unique characteristics and qualities.
The word “Toyger” is a blend of “toy” and “tiger,” which accurately describes the goal of developing this new breed of cats.
This breed was created in the 1980s by Judy Sugden through the crossbreeding of a domestic shorthair tabby named Scrap metal with a Bengal cat named Spot skin.
Continue reading this article on TekeTrek to learn more details about Toyger cats.
The appearance of Toyger cats
- Toyger cats look like small tigers, and among all domestic cat breeds around the world, this breed resembles the beloved wild tiger but is much smaller in size.
- Toyger cats are medium-sized cat breeds with long muscular bodies, high shoulders, and rounded heads.
- The stripes on the bodies of Toyger cats are not the only thing they have in common with tigers; Toyger cats also have shorter legs than other breeds, a common trait among tigers.
- Toyger cats have long fingers and large paws.
- The coat of Toyger cats is short but dense.
- The base color can be brown, reddish-brown, or orange, with dark stripes throughout the body and circular markings on the head.
- To maintain the shine of their thick and silky fur, Toyger cats need weekly brushing.
- Toyger cats are characterized by large, round-shaped eyes, and their colors range from light hazelnut to dark brown.
- Just like Bengal cats, Toyger cats often appear larger than their weight suggests. Adult females typically weigh between seven and 10 pounds. The average weight of adult males is between 10 to 15 pounds.
What are the temperaments of Toyger cats?
- Toyger cats are very intelligent and enjoy challenges and stimulation from humans. They can also be relatively easily taught tricks or how to walk on a leash.
- Besides their appearance, Toyger cats have been bred to be friendly and comfortable companions.
- According to research, the personality of Toyger cats resembles that of Bengals, but they tend to be more independent and busier. This can be a challenge for breeders who are not used to active cats.
What are the most important living needs for Toyger cats?
- Young Toyger cats love to move around, so they will need plenty of outlets for their abundant energy, whether it’s a box of toys, a scratching post, or something to climb on for more physical and mental stimulation.
- Train the young cat to walk using a leash and take it for a walk.
- As Toyger cats are social, they feel happy when they are with other cats and dogs.
- Also, the playful personalities of Toyger make them very suitable for children who can run around the house with them.
The Diet of Toyger Cats
- Given that Toyger cats are active, they typically consume more calories daily than regular cats. Therefore, they achieve better results when following a diet rich in protein or a diet that provides more overall calories.
- Toyger cats do not have specific dietary requirements, and they are not prone to health conditions that usually require dietary adjustments. Additionally, they are not prone to obesity.
- It’s best to feed Toyers two or three small meals throughout the day to prevent them from feeling hungry at any time.
How to Care for Toyger Cats
- Despite the tiger-like beauty of Toyger coats, these small cats will shed their fur on your couch, clothes, and rugs.
- Therefore, it’s essential to maintain weekly grooming to keep most of their hair under control. Plus, it’s a good way to bond with them.
- Although some people may think that cats don’t need as much attention as individual dogs, this is not true, especially for young cats. If left alone for long periods, they may experience separation anxiety and return home to find scratch marks on your couch.
History of Toyger Cats
This breed was created by American breeder Judy Sugden in the 1980s, specifically bred to mimic the patterns of Bengal tigers. Sugden, a long-time enthusiast of tabby cats, noticed that a small cat had a unique spotted pattern on its forehead and decided to produce similar cats.
She began experimenting to see if she could more accurately replicate the tiger’s stripes, using that cat along with a street cat with a distinct spotted face that she imported from India. Along the way, she crossed them with non-uniform short-haired breeds that had appealing patterns, as well as local Bengal cats (a breed established by her mother, Jean Mill).
Frequently Asked Questions About Toyger Cats
- Why were Toyger cats first bred?
Initially, Toyger cats were bred by their founder to inspire cat lovers to care for the tigers currently in the wild.
- Are Toyger cats wild?
Despite their appearance, Toyger cats are not actually related to any wild cats. They are simply the result of precise selective breeding that made them look like tigers.
- What is cat’s favorite food?
Cats’ favorite foods are mainly based on proteins found in meat, chicken and fish
- Is training Toyger cats difficult?
It is considered a very intelligent cat. It is one of the smartest types of cats and can be trained relatively easily. The breed is often famous for going on outdoor adventures using a secure leash and harness.
In the end, the presence of Toyger cats is essential for maintaining ecological balance, as they contribute to regulating other animal populations and preserving wildlife diversity. However, these cats face significant challenges due to habitat loss and illegal hunting. To protect Toyger cats and wildlife diversity, effective measures must be taken to preserve their natural habitat and support wildlife conservation efforts. Protecting these magnificent creatures contributes to the sustainability and natural beauty of our planet.
