I have picked 19 exotic cat breeds that represent diversity beyond the typical household cat.
#1 Minskin
The Minskin is a small-sized breed with short legs and large ears that are wide at the base.
Their short limbs are caused by a genetic mutation.
The breed is the result of selective crossing between the Munchkin and the Sphynx.
They can be any colour or pattern.
#2 Bengal
Bengal cats originated from hybridisation between the wild Asian leopard cat and domestic cats.
They have certainly inherited a unique temperament from their wild grandparents.
These felines benefit from playing predatory type hunting game and require regular play. They are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming.
#3 Ocicat
The Ocicat is named for its resemblance to the ocelot, a spotted wild cat that reaches 40 to 50 cm.
They love curling up on a lap and playing games. Ocicats do best in households that include other animals.
It needs regular mental challenges and physical activity.
#4 Savannah
The Savannah was developed from crossing a serval with a domestic cat. The breed is still illegal in some states and countries to be bred.
They require ample exercise and are highly active.
#5 Chausie
It is a hybrid breed with a cross between jungle and domestic cats. They have upright, preferably tufted ears, and it is a highly active cat that needs lots of company.
#6 Toyger
The Toyger combines the look of a domestic cat with that of a tiger. These cats did inherit a gene responsible for a striking coat known as Glitter.
Toygers laid back temperament makes them great companions. Their coat is dense and extremely soft, and the markings should be bold.
The tail is long and is carried low.
#7 Lykoi
The Lykoi (pronounced lie-koi) is a friendly cat who loves their people.
Werewolf cats are genetically distinct from the Canadian Sphynx cat. Their name is derived from the Greek word for wolves.
The Lykoi was developed by Brittney Gobble in Tennessee.
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#8 Khao Manee
It is a natural breed of domestic cat originating in Thailand. The name Khao Manee means white gem in Thai.
The Khao Manee weighs up to 10 pounds and is graceful in appearance,
Khao Manees get along well with kids and other pets, and love to carry toys around in their mouths.
These feline companions should only be brushed weekly.
#9 Egyptian Mau
It is a shy and sensitive breed that includes active cats that are highly intelligent.
These cats, which normally require high levels of exercise, are one of the oldest domesticated cat breeds.
The breed is the only naturally domesticated breed of spotted cat.
#10 Peterbald
A Peterbald is a breed of hairless cats that was created by breeding an Oriental Shorthair and a Donskoy.
The first Peterbalds were born in Russia in early 1994.
In 2008, TICA recognised the Peterbald for the Championship competition.
#11 Sphynx
The breed has a distinctive hairlessness that is mainly due to a mutation in the KRT71 gene.
They are one of the friendliest cat breeds, and are known for their determination to be part of every activity.
Sphynxes get along well with other pets.
Tip: You should consider a pair instead of a single cat.
#12 Dragon Li
The Dragon Li breed was developed from a common landrace of cats in China. They are behaving kitten-like up to around 3 years.
The coat is short to medium in length, and they are known for their independence.
The Chinese Li Hua enjoys greeting people at the door.
#13 Nebelung
They are a relatively new purebred line that was created during the 80s.
Its name comes from the German word “Nebel,” meaning mist.
Their coat is semi-long, and they are renowned for their sweet temperament. This cat will appreciate being provided with a quiet retreat.
#14 Kanāani
The Kanaani is a medium to large cat, and the founder is Doris Pollatschek.
The Kanaan is now recognised as the State of Israel.
#15 Raas Cat
They are an exotic breed of cat from the Indonesian island of Raas.
Busok Raas body is muscular with medium bone structure. The breed is considered rare.
The Raas cat is not recognised as a breed in any major cat registries.
#16 Serengeti
They are spotted cats, with long legs and round-tipped ears.
Serengetis are friendly and affectionate cats. The breed is a cross between the Oriental Shorthair and the Bengal cat.
#17 Pixie-Bob
It was selectively bred in the United States to resemble the American bobcat.
These felines are described as doglike for their love of adventure.
#18 Geoffroy’s Cat
Geoffroy’s cat is a small wild cat native to South America.
Geoffroy’s Cats are noted for their exceptional swimming abilities and can live up to 15 years in the wild.
#19 Sokoke
It is a natural breed of domestic cat.
Sokoke’s breeding programme was started by Jeni Slater. The breed has a medium-long body and a well-developed chest.