Do you find yourself captivated by the majestic and untamed beauty of the bobcat, but hesitant to take on a wild animal as a pet? Fear not, for there are several cat breeds that closely resemble the striking appearance of this elusive feline. These breeds have been selectively bred to become domesticated and make great companions for those who admire the bobcat’s unique features.
Imagine having a cat with ear tufts that stand tall and proud, fur that is spotted and sleek, and a tail that is short and bobbed. Not only do these cats bear an uncanny resemblance to their larger feline counterparts, but they also share similar traits such as agility, intelligence, and independence. If you’re looking for a cat that embodies a bit of the wild spirit of the bobcat, then keep reading to discover which breeds you should be considering.
One such breed is the Bengal – bred from a combination of domestic cats and Asian leopard cats – which boasts a striking resemblance to the leopard-spotted bobcat. Another breed that closely resembles the bobcat is the Pixiebob. Originating from the United States, these cats have a distinctive wild appearance with their bobbed tails and piercing gaze.
In this blog post, we’ll delve deeper into these two fascinating breeds and explore what makes them so unique. Whether you’re an avid cat lover or simply appreciate the beauty of nature’s finest felines, this post has something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and prepare to be amazed by these incredible cats that look like bobcats.
What is a Bobcat?
This medium-sized feline boasts a striking appearance, with short tails, tufted ears, and a spotted coat. Bobcats are primarily found in wooded areas but can thrive in other habitats such as deserts and swamps.
Bobcats are nocturnal creatures and are known for their solitary nature. As carnivores, they have lightning-fast reflexes and hunt prey such as rabbits, rodents, birds, and small mammals with expert precision. If you happen to spot one in the wild, you may witness their stalking techniques before pouncing on their prey.
While some people have taken to keeping bobcats as pets, it’s important to note that owning one without proper permits is illegal in many states. Bobcats are wild animals and can be dangerous if not properly cared for.
If you’re unable to adopt a bobcat as a pet but still admire their appearance, there are several cat breeds that resemble the bobcat in various ways.
For instance, the Pixiebob was bred to look like the North American Bobcat, while the Bengal cat boasts a distinctive spotted coat created by breeding domestic cats with Asian leopard cats. The Savannah cat is another breed that bears a resemblance to the mini-bobcat created by breeding an African Serval with a domestic cat.
Pixiebob Cats
Pixiebobs are a one-of-a-kind breed that closely resembles the mighty bobcat in appearance.
These medium to large-sized cats boast a muscular build, short and dense fur, and most notably, a short tail that can be straight or slightly curved, giving them their signature bobbed look.
Their tufted ears, lynx-like facial features, broad head, and thick ruff of fur around their necks add to their fierce and wild appearance.
But don’t let their wild exterior fool you – Pixiebob cats are known for their friendly and sociable nature. These intelligent and trainable cats can even learn to walk on a leash or play fetch like dogs. Plus, they are excellent with children and other pets, making them a perfect addition to any family.
While it’s important to remember that not all Pixiebob cats will have the same level of resemblance to bobcats, they still maintain their unique and striking appearance. However, as a relatively rare breed, they can be costly to acquire.
Bengal Cats
Are you searching for a feline companion that is both exotic and domesticated? Say hello to the Bengal cat- a breed that boasts a striking resemblance to wild cats like the bobcat. Their distinctive coat patterns, which mimic spots and stripes, give them a unique appearance that sets them apart from other breeds. With their sleek, short coat, they’re easy to maintain for those who want a low-maintenance pet.
Bengal cats were created by breeding domestic cats with the Asian leopard cat, resulting in a cat with an appearance that resembles the wild cats of the jungle. These cats come in various colors such as brown, silver, and snow, but all share the same pattern that is sure to catch your eye.
Bengal cats are not only stunning to look at but also have an athletic build and incredible agility- qualities they share with many wild cat species. They are intelligent and active cats that crave attention and stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. You can be sure that they will keep you on your toes with their playful personalities.
Despite their wild appearance, Bengal cats are considered domesticated and make great pets. They’re loving and loyal companions who crave human interaction and affection. If you’re looking for a cat that looks like it belongs in the jungle but has the temperament of a domestic cat, then the Bengal breed is perfect for you.
Savannah Cats
Look no further than the Savannah cat. These stunning felines are the result of breeding a domestic cat with a wild African serval, creating a unique appearance that often leaves people mistaking them for their wild lookalike, the bobcat.
What sets Savannah cats apart from other felines is their striking features. With long legs, slender bodies, and a distinctive spotted coat, they exude a natural elegance that is hard to ignore. Their large, pointed ears and long neck only add to their exotic appeal, making them a show-stopper in any room.
But don’t be fooled by their fierce appearance – Savannah cats are actually domesticated and make loving companions. They have an intelligent and curious nature that keeps them playful and active. They also form strong bonds with their owners, making them excellent family pets for those who want an affectionate and loyal companion.
Before bringing home a Savannah cat, it’s essential to find a reputable breeder who has taken proper care of the kitten. Due to their unique breeding, these felines can be quite expensive, but it’s crucial to ensure their health and socialization to guarantee a happy and healthy companion. Also, it’s important to research your local laws and restrictions on owning hybrid breeds like Savannah cats before bringing one home.
American Bobtail Cats
Look no further than the American Bobtail cat. This breed is instantly recognizable thanks to its short, fluffy tail that looks like it came straight from the wilderness. But don’t be fooled by their striking appearance – these cats are just as playful and affectionate as any other domesticated feline.
One of the most notable features of American Bobtail cats is their distinctive tails. Unlike other cats, which have long and slender tails, American Bobtails have tails that are short and thick, usually only one-third to half the length of a regular cat’s tail. This gives them a truly unique and exotic look that’s sure to catch your eye.
But the American Bobtail’s unique appearance doesn’t stop at their tail. These cats also have large, expressive eyes that are often almond-shaped and set at a slight angle. Their ears are tufted and slightly angled as well, giving them an even more wild and exotic look.
Despite their wild appearance, American Bobtail cats are known for being friendly and affectionate. These cats love to play and socialize with their humans, making them great pets for families with children or other pets. Thanks to their intelligence and trainability, they’re also easy to teach new tricks and commands.
When it comes to appearance, American Bobtail cats come in a variety of colors and patterns. You’ll find these cats in tabby, black, white, calico, and many other hues. They also have medium-length fur that’s thick and plush, perfect for snuggling up with on chilly nights.
Other Breeds That Resemble Bobcats
Then, you’ll be pleased to know that there are several breeds that share physical characteristics with the bobcat. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular ones.
First on the list is the Bengal cat. With its striking spotted coat and sleek body, Bengals are often compared to mini leopards. They have a broad, flat nose and a strong jawline that gives them a similar facial structure to bobcats. Bengals are also intelligent, playful, and affectionate, making them an excellent choice for families with children.
Another breed that resembles the bobcat is the Pixiebob. These cats have a muscular build and short tails, which gives them a feral look. They have tufted ears similar to those of bobcats, adding to their wild appearance. However, Pixiebobs are known for being friendly and getting along well with other pets.
Savannah cats are another hybrid breed that shares many physical characteristics with the bobcat. Crossed between an African serval and a domestic cat, they have a tall, lean build and long legs that give them a similar profile to bobcats. Savannahs also have distinctive spots on their coat and large ears that enhance their resemblance to the wild cat.
Finally, we have the Maine Coon cat. Although not as closely resembling the bobcat as other breeds mentioned above, Maine Coons still have a wild appearance due to their large, muscular build and long tufted ears. Some Maine Coons even have stripped or spotted coat patterns that further enhance their resemblance to the bobcat.
Conclusion
To sum it up, if you’re searching for a feline that embodies the untamed spirit of the bobcat, there are various breeds that closely resemble this awe-inspiring creature. From the Bengal with its leopard-spotted coat to the Pixiebob with its lynx-like facial features and signature bobbed tail, these cats have been selectively bred to become domesticated and make for great companions for those who admire the bobcat’s unique traits.
Savannah cats, American Bobtails, and Maine Coons also share physical characteristics with the bobcat, such as their tall, lean builds and tufted ears. These breeds exude an exotic elegance that is hard to ignore, making them show-stoppers in any room.
However, it’s important to remember that while these cats may look like their wild counterparts, they are completely domesticated and make loving companions. They yearn for human interaction and affection and are known for being intelligent, playful, and sociable.
If you’re considering adopting one of these exceptional breeds, it’s crucial to find a reputable breeder who has taken proper care of the kitten. Plus, it’s essential to research your local laws and restrictions on owning hybrid breeds before bringing one home.
