There are cat breeds like the Persian and the American Shorthair that have been around for centuries that we all know and love. But as a sign of the times we see new things everyday, and it seems that we have several new cat breeds that are coming into existence and gaining popularity. These cutting age cat breeds are so new, you may not have even knew they existed. See for yourself, and be prepared for #5:
1. Minskin
This mix between a Sphynx and a Munchkin is a rather interesting looking breed. Developed in the early 2000s, this breed is known for being lovable and affectionate, doing well in homes with children. The Minskin is active and agile just like any other cat would be, although due to their short stature, they might need one extra jump to get to where they are trying to go up high. Also, these petite cats require specific care just like the Sphynx would.
(catbreedsinformation.com has detailed listings on every single cat breed to date.)
Source: Nickolas Titkov via Flickr
2. Selkirk Rex
Although the Devon Rex or the Cornish Rex might come to mind when you hear this breed name, the Selkirk Rex is distinctively different from other Rex breeds. What many have referred to as the “Poodle Cat”, the Selkirk Rex has tight, curly hair and lots of it. In both longhair and shorthair varieties, this breed differs from the other curly hair breed, the LaPerm, in that the Selkirk’s hair is full and plush. These curly cuties–with curly whiskers, too–came as a result of natural breeding. Because the curly hair gene from the Selkirk Rex is dominant, there can be curly haired kittens born in the very same litter as straight haired kittens. These teddy bear-like kitties are known for being sweet and laid-back, making them super easy to spoil with affection!
Source: DMelnik via Flickr
3. Peterbald
From Russia, these cats are strikingly similar to the Sphynx out of Canada. The Peterbald is long and lean, with a graceful physique to match their narrow faces and almond-shaped eyes. Because of the level of care and precaution required, this breed is recommended for an experienced cat owner that is up to the task of caring for this delicate breed. They need regular baths just as the Sphynx would, and obviously you wouldn’t want to let your Peterbald travel outside of the home and expose them to the sun’s harmful rays. Despite not having any hair, this super-friendly breed can come in a variety of colors and markings.
Source: Erlon Brasil via Flickr
4. The Toyger
This pint-sized version of the king of the jungle can give you the look of the wild right in your living room. The toy tiger is a result of breeding American Shorthairs with specific markings with the Bengal to create the distinctive striped pattern that we know from wild tigers. Toygers are very loving with their owners and thoroughly enjoy companionship and time spent together. Like the big tigers in the wild, the Toyger loves to play with water and isn’t afraid to make a splash. The Toyger also has elongated toes and shorter legs, much like their wild doppelgänger. Fun fact: many Toyger cat breeders donate portions of sales to tiger foundations to help wild big cats.
5. Lykoi–The Werewolf Cat
Brace yourself for this one, folks. This truly one of a kind cat is probably the newest cat breed to date, originating in Memphis, Tennessee in early 2014. The Lykoi got its unique appearance due to a genetic mutation from a domestic shorthair, which prevents hair growth on the face and other specific parts of the body. Without a full coat of fur, the Lykoi look unmistakably like a werewolf, especially due to their grayish black color marking. The breed is said to be very active with many dog-like qualities, and highly vocal and social. What will they think of next?!?!
(lykoicat.com is a website created by the man who founded the breed, Johnny Gobble, DVM, where you can learn just about anything you want to know about this super interesting cat breed.)