Striped cats are a popular choice among pet owners and animal lovers alike. These unique breeds often have distinct patterns that not only appeal visually but also highlight their rich genetics. This article explores 25 different cat breeds known for their striking striped coats.
Many striped cat breeds originate from various parts of the world, each with its own history and characteristics. From wild ancestors to domestic companions, these cats showcase a range of personalities and appearances. Readers will discover which breeds stand out and what makes each of them special.
Bengal
The Bengal cat is a popular breed known for its striking appearance and playful personality. This breed is a hybrid created by crossing an Asian leopard cat with domestic cats, specifically the Egyptian Mau.
Bengal cats are medium to large-sized. They have a sleek body and a unique coat that can have spotted or marbled patterns. Their fur often has a distinctive glittery sheen that adds to their appeal.
In terms of temperament, Bengals are active and energetic. They require plenty of playtime and stimulation to stay happy. They are known for their intelligence and curiosity, making them engaging companions.
Bengal cats are also generally friendly and social. They often enjoy being around people and other pets. This makes them a suitable choice for families or households with other animals.
Overall, the Bengal cat combines beauty and personality, making it one of the most sought-after striped breeds in the cat world.
American Shorthair
The American Shorthair is a well-known cat breed recognized for its sturdy build and friendly nature. This breed has a proud history, with roots tracing back to the cats that arrived on the Mayflower.
American Shorthairs are known for their hunting skills. They have natural instincts that make them excellent at catching pests. This ability has made them popular with farmers and households over the years.
These cats come in various colors and patterns, including the classic tabby with stripes. Their short, dense fur is easy to care for, which adds to their appeal as pets.
American Shorthairs are also known for their calm temperament. They get along well with children and other pets, making them a great family companion.
With a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, they can be long-term additions to homes. Their playful nature means they enjoy engaging toys and activities to keep them stimulated.
Overall, the American Shorthair is a versatile and adaptable breed that many find delightful.
3) Toyger
The Toyger is a unique and rare cat breed that resembles a miniature tiger. Developed in the United States, it has a distinctive striped coat and a round face. This breed is known for its striking appearance and playful nature.
Toygers are friendly and social cats. They enjoy being around people and often seek attention. They can be both playful and affectionate, making them great companions.
This breed is relatively new, with fewer than 30 breeders worldwide. Their price typically ranges from $2,000 to $3,500 for a purebred cat. Toygers are popular among cat enthusiasts due to their exotic look and engaging personality.
Caring for a Toyger involves regular grooming and a balanced diet. They are usually healthy, but regular veterinary check-ups are important. This breed thrives in active environments where they can play and explore.
With their athletic build and intelligence, Toygers are a joy to have in any home. They require mental stimulation and enjoy interactive play. Their unique appearance and friendly disposition make them a wonderful choice for cat lovers.
4) Savannah
The Savannah cat is a striking breed known for its unique appearance. Its coat features a mix of spots and stripes, giving it a wild look. This breed is a result of crossing a serval, a wild African cat, with domestic breeds.
Savannah cats come in various colors, including brown spotted tabby and black smoke. The spots can be large or small and are often round. Stripes may also be present, especially down the back.
This breed is large and athletic, often weighing between 12 to 25 pounds. They typically measure 20 to 22 inches in length. Their distinctive black nose and long legs add to their exotic appearance.
Savannah cats are known for their active and playful nature. They require plenty of space to roam and play. These cats are intelligent and can be trained to perform tricks.
With their bold looks and dynamic personalities, Savannah cats have become popular among cat enthusiasts. They bring a unique flair to any home while showcasing the beauty of their wild heritage.
5) Ocicat
The Ocicat is a unique breed known for its striking appearance. It resembles wild cats like the ocelot, which is how it got its name.
This breed is not wild in behavior. The Ocicat is entirely domestic and companionable. It is social, playful, and enjoys interacting with people.
Ocicats have a short coat with a spotted pattern, often found in various colors. Their coat gives them a distinct look, but their personality is gentle and friendly.
Heavily muscled and athletic, the Ocicat has long legs and a graceful build. Their large ears and oval-shaped eyes add to their alluring appearance.
This breed is a mix of Abyssinian, Siamese, and American Shorthair ancestry. Despite its wildcat looks, the Ocicat thrives in a home setting.
Known for its active nature, the Ocicat needs regular playtime and mental stimulation. They often bond closely with their families and can adapt well to different living environments.
6) Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau is known for its unique spotted coat and striking appearance. This breed has a rich history that dates back over 3,000 years, making it one of the oldest domesticated cat breeds.
These cats are athletic and medium-sized, with well-developed muscles and an alert expression. Their coats can feature a variety of patterns, including tabby stripes. The Mau’s distinctive markings include a dorsal stripe that runs along the tail.
Eye color in this breed can vary, often showcasing green hues. The Egyptian Mau is also recognized for its playful and intelligent nature, making it an engaging companion.
Due to its rarity, the Egyptian Mau is not as commonly found as other breeds. It nearly faced extinction after World War II, but dedicated breeders helped bring it back. This cat remains a symbol of beauty and elegance, admired for its lively personality and striking looks.
7) Serengeti
The Serengeti cat is a unique breed known for its striking appearance and playful personality. This breed was developed in the 1990s through a careful breeding program, combining Bengal cats with Oriental Shorthairs.
Serengeti cats do not have any serval ancestry, which distinguishes them from Savannah cats. They are recognized for their sleek bodies, large ears, and bold, spotted coats.
These cats are intelligent and active. They enjoy interactive play and require regular mental stimulation. Serengeti cats tend to bond closely with their human companions, often following them around the house.
The breed has gained popularity worldwide, with breeding taking place in the USA, Europe, the UK, Australia, and Russia. The International Cat Association (TICA) holds the official recognition of the Serengeti breed.
Their friendly and curious nature makes them appealing pets for those looking for an engaging feline companion.
8) Chausie
The Chausie is a unique cat breed known for its striking appearance and size. It is a hybrid of domestic cats and jungle cats, which gives it a distinctive look. This breed was recognized by The International Cat Association in 1995.
Chausies are often large, with weights ranging from 15 to 30 pounds. They typically measure 20 to 22 inches in length. Their bodies are lean and muscular, giving them a strong and agile presence.
The coat of a Chausie is short to medium length, and the breed comes in several colors. The official colors recognized include solid black, black grizzled tabby, and black ticked tabby. Despite being a newer breed, Chausies can have other colors and patterns as well.
Chausies are known for their curious and playful nature. They are active cats that require mental and physical stimulation. This makes them great companions for families who enjoy engaging with their pets. Their exotic look and lively personality contribute to their appeal among cat lovers.
9) Cheetoh
The Cheetoh cat is a unique breed created by crossing Bengal cats with Ocicats. This breed emerged in 2001 and was developed by Carol Dryman. Cheetohs have a striking appearance that resembles wildcats.
They are known for their muscular build and athletic frame. Adult Cheetoh cats typically weigh between 10 and 25 pounds, making them larger than many cat breeds. Males are usually heavier than females.
Cheetoh cats are friendly and social. They enjoy being around people and often get along well with children and other pets. Their playful nature makes them delightful companions.
This breed has a short coat that requires minimal grooming. They tend to shed less, which makes caring for their fur easier. Cheetohs are also known for their talkative behavior, often engaging with their owners.
Colors for Cheetoh cats can include various spotted patterns like brown, silver, and cinnamon. Their distinct look and gentle personality make them a favorite among cat lovers.
10) Siberian
The Siberian cat is known for its beautiful and unique appearance. They have a medium to long-haired triple coat that keeps them warm in cold climates. The fur is thick, especially on their shoulders and lower chest.
This breed often shows distinct markings, including stripes. Their tails are bushy and striped, adding to their charm. Siberians have an “M” shape on their foreheads and captivating eyes with unbroken lines.
Siberians are friendly and social. They usually get along well with other pets and children. They are playful and love to explore their environment.
This breed takes about five years to fully mature. They are also known for being intelligent and athletic, often enjoying climbing and playing. Their playful nature can last longer than in other breeds.
Siberian cats can be a good choice for allergy sufferers. Many people who are allergic to cats find they can tolerate Siberians better than other breeds.
11) Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is a large domestic cat known for its friendly nature and striking appearance. They can weigh between 8 to 25 pounds, with some males exceeding this range. Their height is about 10 to 16 inches, and they can measure 19 to 40 inches in length.
Maine Coons are recognized for their long, shaggy fur, tufted ears, and bushy tails. They come in a variety of coat colors and patterns. Stripes are a common feature, adding to their unique look.
Despite their size, Maine Coons are generally gentle and affectionate. They make great companions and are known for being good with children and other pets. Their playful personality adds to their charm.
This breed is also intelligent and can be trained easily. They enjoy interactive play and are often described as dog-like in their loyalty. Their adaptable nature allows them to fit well in different living environments, from apartments to larger homes.
12) Norwegian Forest Cat
The Norwegian Forest Cat is a large breed known for its striking appearance and friendly nature. This breed has roots in Northern Europe, particularly Norway.
It is well-suited for cold climates, featuring a long, glossy top coat and a fluffy woolly undercoat. This fur helps keep them warm in harsh weather.
Norwegian Forest Cats typically weigh between 13 and 22 pounds. Their size and strength make them agile climbers and excellent hunters.
This breed is characterized by a gentle temperament. They are known to be friendly, easygoing, and good with children and other pets.
The Norwegian Forest Cat’s eyes can be green, gold, or blue, sometimes with odd-eye coloring. Their playful yet calm personality makes them a delightful companion.
They require regular grooming due to their dense fur. Owners should pay special attention during shedding seasons to prevent matting.
This breed has a rich history, possibly dating back to the time of the Vikings. Images of similar cats appear in art from the 16th century.
13) Abyssinian
The Abyssinian cat is known for its unique ticked coat. Each hair has bands of different colors, giving the cat a distinctive and striking appearance. This pattern resembles that of a wild cat.
Abyssinians have a medium build and are very active. They are playful and curious, making them engaging companions. They often enjoy climbing and exploring their surroundings.
This breed has a rich history. It was first recognized in England in 1929, with origins tracing back to Abyssinia, now known as Ethiopia. The first Abyssinians were shown in Britain at the Crystal Palace in 1883.
Abyssinian cats come in several colors, but their most common hue is a warm, ruddy tone. They may also display a variety of other shades. Their coat does not show traditional tabby markings, making their appearance unique.
These cats are social and can bond well with their human families. They often follow their owners around and enjoy interactive play. Abyssinians thrive in environments where they receive attention and mental stimulation.
14) Oriental Shorthair
The Oriental Shorthair is a sleek and elegant cat breed known for its striking features and playful nature. It is recognized for its athletic build and unique coat that comes in over 300 colors and patterns.
This breed belongs to the Siamese family and shares many traits with it. Oriental Shorthairs are known for their intelligence and vocal behavior. They are social cats that enjoy interaction with their owners.
In terms of personality, they are friendly and curious. They often seek attention and can be quite demanding when it comes to playtime. Their playful nature makes them popular among cat lovers.
The breed was developed in the early 1970s by breeders in New York. They aimed to showcase the variety of colors and patterns that these cats can display. As a result, the Oriental Shorthair is not only a beautiful cat but also a lively companion.
15) Pixie-Bob
The Pixie-Bob is a unique and stocky breed known for its friendly personality and playful nature. This breed often features an unusually short tail and may have extra toes, sometimes having up to seven on a paw.
Despite their exotic appearance, Pixie-Bobs are fully domestic cats. DNA tests confirm they are not related to wild bobcats. They typically weigh between 8 to 25 pounds, with males being larger than females.
Pixie-Bobs are affectionate and enjoy spending time with families. They are known to get along well with children, other cats, and even well-mannered dogs. Their social nature makes them a great addition to many homes.
This breed is also quite active. They love to lounge around, nap, and play. Owners often find them requesting snacks, showing their fun and goofy side. Pixie-Bobs can be vocal, expressing their thoughts and desires clearly.
With a well-rounded temperament, the Pixie-Bob is a charming and engaging companion for cat lovers.
16) Scottish Fold
The Scottish Fold is a popular breed known for its unique ear shape. This cat has a genetic mutation that causes its ears to fold forward and down. This gives the breed a distinct appearance often compared to an owl.
Scottish Folds come in various colors and patterns, including striped varieties. They can have short or long hair, depending on the individual cat.
The breed was first recognized in the 1960s and quickly gained popularity due to its charming looks. Males typically weigh between 4-7 kg, while females are slightly smaller.
Scottish Folds are known for their friendly and calm personalities. They often get along well with families and other pets. This breed enjoys playing and being around people, making them great companions.
While the unique ear shape adds to their charm, potential owners should be aware of certain health issues related to the genetic mutation. Regular veterinary care is important to keep them healthy.
17) Silver Tabby
The Silver Tabby is recognized for its striking coat, featuring a blend of gray shades. This pattern includes dark gray stripes and spots against a lighter gray or white background.
Silver Tabbies are not a specific breed but a color variation found in many breeds. They exhibit the classic tabby pattern that can include stripes, swirls, or blotches.
These cats are known for their friendly and social nature. They often get along well with other pets, including dogs and other cats.
The Silver Tabby can be seen in breeds such as the American Shorthair and British Shorthair. This variety adds to its appeal among cat lovers.
In addition to their pleasing appearance, Silver Tabbies are often playful and curious. Their personalities make them wonderful companions for families and individuals alike.
18) Japanese Bobtail
The Japanese Bobtail is a distinctive breed known for its short, stubby tail that resembles a pom-pom. This characteristic tail is the result of a natural genetic mutation.
Originating from Japan, the breed has a long history and is often associated with good luck. Its friendly and adaptable personality makes it a popular pet for individuals and families alike.
Japanese Bobtails come in various colors and patterns, including stripes. Their coat can be either short or long, and they usually have a sleek, athletic build.
This breed is known for being playful and social. They enjoy interacting with their human companions and can be quite vocal.
Heterochromia, or having two different colored eyes, is common in Japanese Bobtails. This unique trait adds to their charm and appeal.
Although they are relatively rare, Japanese Bobtails are recognized by most cat registries and are well-loved for their engaging behavior and lively disposition.
19) Exotic Shorthair
The Exotic Shorthair is a medium to large cat known for its charming looks. It has a round face with large, expressive eyes and a short, flat nose. This breed is a cross between the American Shorthair and the Persian, combining features of both.
Exotic Shorthairs have a dense, plush coat that comes in various colors and patterns, including stripes. Their body is cobby and sturdy, which contributes to their unique appearance. These cats are affectionate and enjoy being around people.
They are playful and can adapt well to different living conditions. Exotic Shorthairs are known for their easygoing nature, making them good companions for families. They require regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition.
The Exotic Shorthair thrives on social interaction and enjoys engaging with its owners. With their gentle temperament and striking looks, they bring joy to many households. This breed is often favored by those looking for a playful yet laid-back pet.
20) Turkish Van
The Turkish Van is a unique breed known for its striking appearance and energetic personality. This breed has a distinctive color pattern, typically white with colored markings on the face and tail.
Turkish Vans are large, muscular cats with semi-longhair coats. They are athletic and love to climb and explore their surroundings.
Originating from the Middle East, Turkish Vans were brought to Europe by returning Crusaders. This breed is considered rare, with only about 100 new kittens registered each year.
Their playful nature can lead to mischief, as they enjoy interactive play and water. Turkish Vans are known for their intelligence and curiosity, often seeking new adventures.
They take around three to five years to reach full maturity, showing their strong and robust physicality. These cats are well-suited for active families, as they thrive on attention and engagement.
21) British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a well-known breed characterized by its round face and dense coat. They can weigh between 8 to 17 pounds, depending on their sex.
These cats are known for their calm and friendly nature. They tend to get along well with children and other pets. This makes them great family companions.
British Shorthairs come in various colors, including a common silvery gray known as “British blue.” Their distinctive stripes can be seen in some individuals, thanks to the tabby gene.
Their easy-going personality makes them low-maintenance pets. They enjoy playtime but are also content to relax by themselves. This balance makes them suitable for different living situations.
This breed has a lifespan of around 15 to 25 years, which means they can be long-term pets. Overall, the British Shorthair is a charming and adaptable choice for cat lovers.
22) Turkish Angora
The Turkish Angora is a graceful and agile breed known for its striking appearance. It originated in Turkey and has a history that dates back to at least the 15th century. This breed features a long, silky coat that can come in various colors, though white is most common.
Turkish Angoras have a wedge-shaped head and almond-shaped eyes that can present different colors, including blue and gold. Their body is long and muscular, which adds to their overall elegance.
This breed is highly intelligent and active. Turkish Angoras enjoy interactive play and are known for their curious nature. They thrive in environments where they can engage with their families and explore their surroundings.
In addition to their beauty, the Turkish Angora is also friendly and social. They often form strong bonds with their owners and can adapt well to different living situations. Overall, this breed combines a lively personality with a stunning look, making them a favorite among cat lovers.
23) Peterbald
The Peterbald is a unique cat breed known for its striking appearance. Accepted by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1997, it gained championship status in 2005.
This breed was created by crossing a Don Sphynx male with an Oriental female. The first litters produced bald kittens that became the foundation of the breed.
Peterbalds can have different coat types. These include completely bald, flock (90% hairless), and velour (70% hairless). This variety makes them stand out among cat breeds.
Their friendly personality and intelligence make Peterbalds good companions. They are social and enjoy being with their human families.
Due to their rarity, Peterbalds are highly desired by cat lovers. They require regular grooming, especially for those with hair.
Because of their unique genetics, they have specific health considerations. It is important to be informed about their care to ensure a healthy and happy life.
24) Singapura
The Singapura cat is known for its small size and playful personality. This breed originates from the streets of Singapore, where it was first discovered in the 1970s.
Singapura cats have a distinctive appearance. They feature large, almond-shaped eyes and big ears. Their coat is short and dense with a ticked tabby pattern, which gives them a unique look.
These cats are among the smallest breeds, yet they are full of energy. Singapura cats are affectionate and enjoy being around people. They often seek companionship and can be very social.
Grooming the Singapura is relatively easy. Their short coat requires minimal maintenance, making them suitable for various living situations. Regular grooming helps keep their coat healthy and clean.
Overall, Singapura cats are an excellent choice for pet owners seeking a lively and loving companion. Their charming nature and easy care make them a favorite among cat lovers.
25) Manx
The Manx cat is known for its unique appearance and is one of the most distinct breeds. Originating from the Isle of Man, this breed is famous for its lack of a tail. Some Manx cats have a small stub of a tail, while others are entirely tailless.
In addition to their tail characteristics, Manx cats have elongated hind legs and a rounded head. These features give them a unique stance and gait. Their body is muscular and compact, making them quite agile.
While not traditionally striped, Manx cats come in various colors and patterns. They can display solid colors, tabby markings, and even tortoiseshell patterns. The combination of their striking appearance and playful personality makes them popular with cat lovers.
Manx cats are known for being friendly and social. They typically get along well with other pets and enjoy spending time with their families. They can be lively and playful, often enjoying interactive games and toys. These traits make the Manx a wonderful companion for many households.