Rare or Exotic Cat Breeds

Exotic cats are among the most interesting breeds to choose from. These rare breeds often have an eye-catching, "wild" look because they’re usually cross-bred with wild felines. But beyond their appearance, they tend to be great family pets, known for their calm temperaments and overall good health. Although they can be a bit pricey, they’re often worth it for the right pet owner.

That said, owning a hybrid or wild cat isn’t legal everywhere. Be sure to check state laws, and consider any safety or environmental concerns that might arise from having one of these unique cats as part of your family.

Most exotic cats are rare cat breeds, but not all rare breeds are exotic. A first-generation cross-bred cat, or filial cat, may cost several thousand dollars to adopt, but as those offspring are bred with domestic cats and the genetics turn more tame than wild, they become more affordable. A filial cat is referred to as an F1 cat, meaning it has a wild cat parent. That cat’s offspring would then be an F2, and so on. Many exotic cat breeds, such as the Savannah Cat, are much larger than the average house cat and may tend to act more like dogs, to the point of being leash-trained. Their genetic diversity often leads to fewer health issues, which can save you money in the long run. Exotic cats tend to need a lot of stimulation and exercise, so be sure that they fit your lifestyle before adopting them, and keep in mind that they can still have a lot of wildness in them. Some localities have restrictions around owning exotic cats, so check your local regulations. Select from the popular breeds above to learn more, or use our Breed Explorer to find the rare cat breed you're looking for.

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