Stripes are a common feature of cats, which makes them look unique; however, not all cats have stripes.
They come in various patterns and colors, depending on the breed. Find out more about striped cat breeds in this article.
There are several types of striped cats, each with its distinct characteristics. Some of them are quite common, while others are extremely rare.
The striped pattern is caused by a mutation in the gene that controls coat color. This mutation causes the fur to appear darker at the edges and lighter towards the center.
Striped cats are often considered exotic pets because they look unique and unusual.
Striped Cat Breeds
1. Toyger
The Toyger looks more like a full-sized tiger, but don’t be fooled; they don’t have any tiger genes in their DNA.
They have markings on their head that create a circular pattern, framing the tiger face. Also, they have thicker vertical striping on their bodies and horizontal stripes on their legs.
This breed is heavily muscled with long, low-slung torsos. They also have big-boned, high-set shoulders, giving them that wild cat look.
A typical Toyger stands 9 to 13 inches tall and weighs between 7 and 15 pounds.
Toygers might not be as active as their Bengal cousins in hunting or climbing, but they still have an eye for adventure.
They’re intelligent cats and love being cuddled by their humans. Also, they have a playful personality, which makes them a perfect match for kids and other pets.
2. Sokoke
The Sokoke is one of the rarest cat breeds in the world. It is a lean, medium-sized cat breed with a long body and slender legs.
They have high-defined cheekbones, moderately large ears, and almond-shaped eyes, which vary from greenish amber to blue.
Female Sokokes weigh about 2.5 to 3kg, while males weigh 4 to 5 kg. They love sitting in high places while they look down and watch their surroundings.
So, if you can’t find your Sokoke, check the top of your cupboards and curtain rails. This breed is extremely playful and loves to spend time with its owners.
Sokokes can become bored if left alone, so they always need company from humans or other pets. They’re also very vocal and will tell you everything on their mind with a loud miaow!
3. Dragon Li
Dragon Li is an ancient purebred cat with a distinct wild appearance. They’re also known as Li Hua, Li Hua Mao, and Chinese Li Hua. This cat breed is native to China and is among striped cat breeds.
The Dragon Li is a medium-sized body cat with a rounded body shape and a strong, broad chest.
Their head is large, round, and diamond-shaped, and their forehead typically displays an ‘M’ pattern. They have only one coat color and pattern: a golden brown color.
These unique felines dislike small, confined indoor spaces. They’re outstanding hunters and love outdoor spaces.
However, they’re not typical lap cats, as they don’t love snuggling. They prefer to have their space to themselves.
4. Pixie Bob
The Pixie Bob is a large, muscular cat with a pear-shaped head. They originate from a tryst between a domestic shorthair and a bobcat.
These cats have black fur and skin on the bottom of their paws, as well as their chin, lips, and eyes.
The pixie bob coats can be either long or short but are always double-coated with thick, wooly hair.
Their coat is similar to the American Bobcat pattern but comes in various colors, such as fawn, orange, and light gray.
Pixie bobs are sweet-tempered, intelligent, and easy-going cats. They’re outdoor adventurers and love to have fun while climbing and exploring cat trees.
In addition, they’re perfect lap cats and love head-butting to get their points across.
5. Norwegian Forest Cat
Norwegian forest cats are among the famous striped cat breeds across the world and are mostly adored in their native land of Norway. They are large, muscular cats and weigh between 12 – 16 pounds.
Their coats are shiny and water resistant, adapted for the harsh Norwegian winters.
Also, they have a dense undercoat that keeps them warm and shed a lot, so they require regular brushing. Their coats come in various colors, such as golden, silver, red, blue, and black.
These cats are friendly, calm, and gentle and are adaptable to different families and lifestyles.
They love human connection and affection, although they’re undemanding and prefer to let you come to them. Also, they’re intelligent breeds and love to play with everyone.
6. Serengeti
Serengetis are medium-sized striped cat breeds. They’re a rare cat breed produced by crossing the Bengal and Oriental cats.
These cats are bred throughout the USA, Australia, Europe, Russia, and the UK.
Their head is fairly small, with a wide muzzle and prominent whisker pads. The neck is long and slender and blends into the base of the skull.
Their coats are short and plush and come in various colors, such as ebony silver, ebony smoke, and solid black.
If you’re looking for a cat that doesn’t shed too much, Serengeti is a perfect choice. In addition, they’re playful and enjoy activities such as jumping and climbing.
These cats love attention from humans and other pets but might take some time to warm up to new people.
7. Bengal
Bengal cats are lithe and agile cats with a wild appearance. The first time you see a Bengal cat, you might actually think it’s a jungle cat. They have a spotted marble coat that looks like a wild leopard.
Bengal cats are large and weigh between 8 – 15 pounds. They have dense, short coats that are boldly patterned in different shades of snow, silver, and brown. Their fur is super soft and feels like bunny hair.
Despite their wild appearance, Bengals are soft, sweet, and affectionate. They get along with children and other pets. Also, they’re intelligent and can be taught tricks.
However, if you want to get a Bengal, ensure to check with your state and local governments because they’re banned in some locations.
8. Devon Rex
The Devon Rex is among the striped cat breeds and has an alien-like appearance. They’re medium-sized cats weighing about 6 – 9 pounds and standing 10 – 12 inches tall.
Their most noticeable traits are their big eyes, large ears, high cheekbones, long necks, and slender bodies.
These cats have a fine, wavy coat of hair. Their coats are short all over but especially shorter near the head, ears, chest, paws, neck, and abdomen.
Their coats also come in various colors, including lilac, cinnamon, white, blue, chocolate, and black.
Devon Rex cats are friendly, intelligent, and outgoing. They bond pretty well with kids and other pets. Also, they’re demanding and will do anything to get your attention.
9. European Shorthair
The European shorthair is one of the oldest European cat breeds. They’re medium-sized cats with firm build and weigh 12 – 15 pounds.
These cats have round faces and bodies, and their vibrant, bright eyes come in shades of green, blue, or amber. They can also be odd-eyed, with one blue eye and one green or amber eye.
These breeds have a short coat of straight, thick hair that comes in different solid colors, as well as tortoiseshell and tabby patterns.
Their coats are sleek and shiny, and they can do much of their own grooming.
European shorthair cats are friendly, tolerant, and intelligent. They’re adaptable pets who can adjust to new environments and make the most of wherever they are.
In addition, they love playing with their pet owner but can be timid around strangers.
10. American Bobtail
The American Bobtail is among the striped cat breeds and was officially recognized in the 1960s.
They’re famous for their short tails, rugged appearance, and playful personalities. These breeds are uncommon and can cost $600 to $1200 from a reputable breeder.
American bobtails have large almond-shaped eyes that can come in any color. They have long legs and large athletic body that weighs between 7 – 16 pounds.
These cats are slow maturing and can take 2 -3 years to reach full adulthood.
These cat breeds are sweet, affectionate, and docile, which is why most people refer to them as ‘golden retrievers.’
They make great companions and lap cats and get along with humans and other pets. Also, they have a wide range of vocal communications and form deep bonds with their human.
11. Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is one of the largest cat breeds. A typical Maine coon stands 10 – 16 inches tall and measures up to 40 inches in length.
These sturdily built felines weigh 8 – 18 pounds and have muscular bodies, broad chests, and solid legs.
Maine coons have a long, silky, and smooth coat that grows shorter near the shoulder. Their coats come in different colors and patterns.
You can find white, cream, red, blue, and black Maine Coon, as well as tabby, bi-color, parti-color, shaded, tortoiseshell, and calico Maine Coon.
In addition, these cats are soft and gentle and love to spend time with their human. They play with every family member and aren’t big on personal space or privacy.
Also, they dislike being left alone, as this makes them sad and anxious.
Conclusion
When we think of stripes, what comes to mind is a Zebra or Tiger. But cats have stripes, too, and even come in various colors.
If you’re a cat lover and fascinated with stripes, you can choose one of the striped cat breeds from the list above and enjoy the company of your new feline friend.
