What breed of tiger cat is called? - briefly
The Bengal cat is one of the most well-known and popular breeds often referred to as "tiger cats" due to their distinctive striped coat pattern reminiscent of wild tigers.
What breed of tiger cat is called? - in detail
The term "tiger cat" often refers to cats that exhibit striking coat patterns resembling those of tigers, typically with orange or brown stripes on a lighter background. These distinctive markings are found in several breeds and mixed-breed cats. Among the most notable is the Bengal cat, which is known for its wild, exotic appearance reminiscent of small Asian leopards. The Bengal cat's coat features prominent rosettes or spots arranged in a pattern that closely mimics those of tigers, giving it an unmistakable resemblance.
Another breed with tiger-like markings is the Toyger, which was specifically developed to resemble a miniature tiger. The name "Toyger" is a portmanteau of "toy" and "tiger," reflecting its diminutive size compared to its wild counterpart. These cats have distinctive black stripes on an orange background, similar to the classic tiger pattern.
In addition to these recognized breeds, many domestic shorthair and longhair cats with mixed ancestry can also exhibit tiger-like coat patterns. These cats may not belong to a specific breed but are often referred to as "tiger cats" due to their striking markings. The genetic trait responsible for the striped or spotted coat pattern is known as agouti, which is common in many wild cat species and has been selectively bred into domestic cats over generations.
Overall, while there are specific breeds like the Bengal and Toyger that are intentionally bred to resemble tigers, the term "tiger cat" can encompass a wide range of cats with similar coat patterns, regardless of their exact genetic makeup or lineage.