Toyger Cat
Cat Facts

The Toyger cat is a domestic cat and is not related to the Tiger in any way, but was bred it emulate the Asian Tiger. It is considered a new cat breed and cat breeders are still hard at work improving what we believe is already a very handsome cat. Note: They do not have any Tiger blood in them. They are not considered wild cats and no permit is required to keep this cat.

The Toyger cat's coat is short, thick and luxuriously plush and soft and the fur should have glittering. The modified mackerel tabby markings range from virtually black to brown and possibly tan. There must be a distinct and extreme contrast in color values. The preferred background color is orange. The body stripes should be bold and non-uniform (i.e. broken or branched) and stretched rosettes are preferred. The stripes and facial markings should be aligned in a circular fashion around the face.

The Toyger is an athletic looking cat with a strong, muscular torso, long and muscular neck and sturdy forequarters. The front and back legs are equivalent in height and of medium length. The rope-like tail is muscular and long and carried quite low.

The Toyger has a somewhat rounded head which is medium in size and could be described as 'heart-shaped'. The cat's muzzle and nose are medium long, fairly muscular and like the head, has rounded contours. Eyes are round and small and should present with a deep and rich color - all eye colors are accepted, apart from blue which is not permitted. The ears are considered small with rounded tips.

If you intend showing or breeding, then we do recommend that you establish the breed standards from a cat registry. A list of these cat associations can be found on the all breeds of cat page.

Toyger Cat Information

Indoor or Outdoor Cats

Toyger cats will do well indoors or outdoors. If indoor cats are not provided with sufficient space and cat paraphernalia (cat toys, cat gyms, cat scratchers) they may become bored and resort to destructive behavior.

Outdoor cats that are permitted to roam will be exposed to all sorts of dangers like unfriendly dogs, cats and humans. They are also at risk of being run over and contracting feline diseases.

The safest and most stimulating environment for your cat is an outdoor, escape-proof enclosure with direct access to your home.

Character

The Toyger is highly intelligent and playful cat that can be trained to walk with a harness. This is a laid-back cat and whilst not a lap cat, it is affectionate and gentle. Their owners also describe them as sociable and whilst they will accept other cats, they prefer the company of cat-friendly dogs.

Cat Care and Cat Grooming

This is a low maintenance cat breed. A weekly brush with a rubber grooming glove will keep the coat clean and shiny. Obviously, all cats need general hygiene and for information regarding this, visit our tips on cat care.

Cat Health Concerns

This is a healthy cat breed, but like all cats they do need regular exercise, vaccinations and an annual visit to the vet for a general check-up. Investing in cat insurance is highly recommended.

Cat Diet and Nutrition

Needless to say, Toyger cats need a well balanced diet. You can choose from a wide selection of commercial foods (kibbles or canned) or, if you have the expertise, consider raw cat food. Water is an essential part of your cat's diet and all cats should have a bowl of clean, fresh water to drink.

The review on cat food provides excellent information on the different types of feline foods and the cat nutrition guide reviews the importance of specific nutrients in your cat's diet. Water and not milk is also an essential part of their diet.

The Average Weight

Weight differs between male and female cats, but on average they should weigh between 4.5 - 6.8 kg (10 lbs - 15 lbs)

Life Expectancy

Cat life span depends on numerous things which are explained in detail in the chapter on how long do cats live. The average life span of a well cared for cat is 12 + years.

Related Cat Pages:

Toyger Cat Pictures - the history of the breed with cat pictures

Toyger Breeders - an international breeder directory

Cat Photos Courtesy of Photographers:

Top: © Animal Photography, Tetsu Yamazaki

Bottom: © Helmi Flick Cat Photography