Last week, we explored the fancypants world of “designer dogs,” noting the only meaningful difference between them and mutts is that the former has a better publicist. Not wishing to be accused of bias, this week we visit the universe of hybrid cats.
Bengal cats, Savannah cats, toygers, chausies, jungle lynx, Bristols, Serengetis and cheetoh cats are some of what seems a never-ending list of hybrid or exotic cats. Everything about this is confusing, including the category itself. Some of these animals reportedly are a mix of pussycat and wild relative (for example, Savannah cats are a cross with the African serval). Others are pure felis catus (the scientific name for house cat) bred over generations to emphasize a wild “look” (the tiger-looking but not-at-all wild Toyger). Yet others are now apparently “extinct” (the house cat-Margay mix known as Bristols), assuming they ever actually existed.
Sadly and perhaps inevitably, what were once rare cats available only for those few cats lovers with the financial means to acquire such a rarity (as well as the means to handle home and furniture repairs) created high demand (we all want what the celebrities have). High demand led to supply (there can be considerable profit from breeding, a relatively unregulated practice requiring little more than a male and a female). Today, animal shelters often have these animals available, and a number of sanctuaries dedicated to hybrid cats have popped up to help deal with may be a coming cat crisis.
Breeders use adjectives like “spunky,” “assertive,” “endlessly entertaining” in ads for exotic kittens. Owners who surrender the adult versions to animal shelters tend to use other words: “uncontrollable,” “destructive,” “crazed.” But it can be done. My Stinky Louise is a Serengeti, and I love her as much as the others. Want a cat? I hope so! Since every cat knows he/she is extraordinary and special, I promise that the extraordinary and special cat of your dreams is available at your animal shelter.
Ken White is the president of the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA.