Toyger

Judy Sudgen in French TICA show 2007

Toyger is a breed of domestic cat that has been bred to resemble a tiger in appearance. The Toyger is characterized by its striking coat pattern, which mimics the bold stripes and orange or gold color of the tiger. This breed is relatively new, having been developed in the late 20th century with the goal of raising awareness for tiger conservation efforts. Despite their wild appearance, Toygers are known for their friendly, outgoing, and playful temperament, making them popular pets among cat enthusiasts.

History

The Toyger breed was developed in the 1980s by a breeder named Judy Sugden. The project began with the aim of creating a domestic cat with a coat pattern that closely resembled that of a wild tiger. The breeding program initially focused on refining the striped patterns and coloration found in Bengal cats, which are themselves a hybrid of domestic cats and the Asian leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis). Over the years, other breeds were also introduced into the Toyger breeding program to enhance the desired physical traits, such as the muscular build and the specific pattern of stripes.

Appearance

Toygers are medium-sized cats with a muscular build and a high degree of agility. Their most distinctive feature is their coat, which is dense, soft, and short. The coat is designed to mimic the rich orange and black striping of a tiger, though the intensity and exact pattern can vary from cat to cat. Toygers also have circular, muscular faces with small, rounded ears, and their eyes are usually deep and expressive, adding to their wild appearance.

Temperament

Despite their wild looks, Toygers are known for their gentle and friendly nature. They are highly social animals that enjoy the company of humans and other pets. Toygers are also quite playful and intelligent, often capable of learning tricks and commands. They adapt well to indoor living but require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.

Care

Caring for a Toyger involves regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition, though their short hair makes this task relatively easy compared to long-haired breeds. They also need a balanced diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and vaccinations to maintain their health. As active and playful cats, Toygers benefit from having access to toys, climbing structures, and interactive playtime with their owners.

Conservation Message

One of the original goals in developing the Toyger breed was to draw attention to the plight of wild tigers, which are facing numerous threats including habitat loss, poaching, and conflict with humans. Breeders and owners of Toygers are often encouraged to support tiger conservation efforts, whether through financial contributions, advocacy, or education about the challenges these magnificent wild cats face.