The Toyger cat is gaining global recognition for its striking resemblance to wild tigers. Their unique coat patterns, which mimic the tiger's iconic stripes, make them incredibly appealing to cat enthusiasts and admirers.
Additionally, Toygers have a friendly and affectionate personality, which further adds to their popularity. These felines are social, playful, outgoing, and highly intelligent. They are considered a rare breed, and the rarity factor makes them highly sought after by cat lovers who are passionate about owning unique and exclusive breeds.
Toyger Breed Was Created In California
The Toyger cat is a new breed developed in the late 1980s by Judy Sugden, a breeder from California. Inspired by her love for tigers along with a strong desire to create a domestic cat that resembled a miniature tiger, she set out to develop the Toyger breed.
Sugden initially crossed a striped domestic shorthair cat with a Bengal cat. She then selectively bred the offspring with the most tiger-like markings. Over several generations, she continued to refine the breed, focusing on enhancing the bold and vivid markings to resemble those of a tiger.
Toyger Cat Personality
The Toyger cat has a striking resemblance to a tiger, both in appearance and temperament. Their overall personality can be described as active, playful, and intelligent. They are highly energetic cats that enjoy interactive playtime and mental stimulation.
These cats are typically friendly and social, often getting along well with people, children, and other pets. They are affectionate and enjoy being involved in their owner's activities.
Coat Colors And Patterns
The Toyger cat was developed to resemble a small tiger and their coat plays a significant role in achieving the desired appearance. Their coat is usually short, dense, and close to the body, giving it a sleek and muscular look. The texture is soft and silky to the touch, enhancing its overall appeal.
Toygers come in a range of warm, golden shades that resemble the fur of a tiger. The base color is usually a rich, bright orange, similar to the color seen on a Bengal tiger. This vibrant orange hue creates a striking contrast against the black stripes that adorn the body. Meanwhile, the coat patterns are what truly make it resemble a miniature tiger.
Common Health Issues In Toygers
Toyger cats are susceptible to feline diseases and health conditions like any other cat breed. Most cats from this breed are generally healthy and live a fulfilled life. However, they occasionally get sick and might require veterinary care and medications.
Some of the most common health issues associated with the breed include:
1. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
HCM is a heart condition characterized by the thickening of the heart muscles, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively. This condition can be inherited, and regular screening by a veterinarian is recommended to detect and manage it.
2. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
PKD is a genetic disorder that causes the development of fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys. Over time, these cysts can affect kidney function and may lead to kidney failure. Responsible breeders should test their breeding cats for PKD to reduce the risk of passing it on to offspring.
3. Obesity
Toyger cats, like many other domestic cats, can be prone to obesity if they are overfed or not given enough exercise. Obesity can lead to various health problems, including joint issues, diabetes, and heart disease. It is important to provide a balanced diet and engage in regular play and exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
4. Dental Issues
These cats may be prone to dental problems such as periodontal disease, dental plaque, tartar buildup, tooth resorption, gingivitis, malocclusion, and more. Regular dental care, such as brushing their teeth and annual dental cleanings, can help prevent these issues and maintain good oral health in Toyger cats.
Tips To Maintain Sound Health
Keeping the cat in good health is one of the most important responsibilities of a Toyger owner. With a little assistance from their human companions, these cats remain in peak shape throughout most of their adult lives. Here are a few health tips to consider.
1. Regular Veterinary Check-ups
Schedule regular visits to the vet for routine vaccinations, health screenings, and preventive care. This helps detect any health issues early on. Vets provide valuable services for your pets, including annual wellness exams, dental care, regular checkups, and more.
2. Balanced Diet
Provide a balanced and nutritious diet specifically formulated for cats. A combination of wet and dry cat food is recommended to ensure they receive adequate hydration. Look for cat food with real meat as the main ingredient, without fillers or artificial additives. Toygers are active cats, so they require a protein-rich diet to support their energy levels and muscle development.
3. Fresh Water
Ensure your Toyger always has access to clean and fresh water. Change the water daily to prevent bacteria buildup. On an average day, an adult Toyger drinks between 5-10 ounces of water. However, the amount of water intake can vary depending on factors such as diet, activity level, and environmental conditions.
4. Grooming
Regular grooming helps maintain a Toyger's coat and overall cleanliness. Brush its fur at least once or twice a week to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Additionally, check its ears, teeth, and nails regularly.
5. Dental Care
Brush your Toyger's teeth regularly with a cat-friendly toothpaste to prevent dental problems. You can also provide dental treats or toys to help keep their teeth clean.
6. Litter Box Hygiene
Keep the litter box clean and provide fresh litter regularly. Scoop the litter box daily and change the litter completely at least once a week to maintain hygiene and prevent odors.
7. Exercise
These cats require at least 30 minutes to an hour of exercise each day. This can include interactive play sessions with their owners, such as chasing toys or playing with a laser pointer. Providing them with scratching posts, climbing trees, and puzzle toys can also help to keep them active.
Gestation Period And Litter Size
Toyger cats have an average gestation period of around 63 to 65 days. This period refers to the time between successful mating and the birth of the kittens. It is crucial to monitor the pregnant cat's health and provide proper nutrition during this period to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the developing kittens. Regular veterinary check-ups are also essential to address any potential complications or concerns.
Toyger kittens are normally born in a litter of 2 to 4 babies. These felines tend to have relatively small litter compared to some other breeds. However, litter sizes can vary significantly based on genetic factors.
Where To Get A Toyger Cat?
Toyger cats are a relatively rare breed, so finding a reputable breeder in the United States may require some research and patience. One of the best ways to start your search is by contacting the Toyger Breed Section of the International Cat Association (TICA) as they maintain a list of registered breeders.
Another option is to attend cat shows or exhibitions, where you may find Toyger breeders showcasing their cats. These events provide an opportunity to meet breeders in person, ask questions, and potentially find a Toyger kitten or adult cat for sale.
In the US, the Toyger cat can cost anywhere between $1,500 to $5,000. The price of a kitten depends on various factors, including the cat's pedigree, quality, and breeder reputation.
Interesting Facts About Toyger Cat Breed
As a relatively new breed, Toyger cats aren't commonly known like the Persian or Siamese cats. However, in recent years, this breed has found a renewed interest in cat enthusiasts. It is gradually becoming a household name as more breeders are putting emphasis on commercializing the breed.
Look at some of the lesser-known facts about the Toyger cat, below:
- These muscular cats have vertical stripes and a distinctive "M" marking on their forehead.
- They are extremely intelligent and curious, often showing interest in learning tricks and solving puzzles.
- Toygers are relatively vocal cats as they communicate through various vocalizations, including chirping, trilling, and sometimes even imitating bird sounds.
- They are highly adaptable and can adjust well to different living environments, including apartments, as long as they receive enough mental and physical stimulation.
- Toygers have a fascination with water and may enjoy playing with it. They love dipping their paws in a water bowl.
- These cats have a body length ranging from 20 to 24 inches (50 to 60 cm) and stand about 9 to 11 inches (23 to 28 cm) tall at the shoulder.
- An adult Toyger weighs between 7 to 15 pounds (3 to 7 kilograms). These domestic cats are known for their muscular build.
Petjurni Team
