10 Quirky Cat Breeds
By Jessica Remitz
From breeds that look like they've stepped off the pages of National Geographic to those that are known to exhibit behaviors of an entirely different species (fancy a game of fetch or a walk on the leash with your dog AND cat?), some cats are in a wonderfully wacky league of their own.
We've asked Emmy-Award Winning Veterinarian Dr. Jeff Werber to help us select some breeds that are highly unusual, either in their appearance or behavior. While some of these breeds might be just perfect for your home because of (or despite!) their wacky-ness, it's also important to learn as much as you can about a potential pet's behaviors, temperaments and certain medical conditions before making a commitment to one.
Ragdoll
A sweet-tempered, polite cat with a strong desire for human affection, Ragdolls will-rather strangely-go completely limp in your arms the moment you try to pick them up, hence the breed's name. A personable, friendly breed, Werber's Ragdoll has been known to greet him at the door and is actually willing to be brushed, going so far as to offer up its tummy at grooming time. Ragdoll's are easy to train and have excellent manners, making them suitable companions for families with children and even other pets.
Maine Coon
Recognizable by their massive, fluffy tail and long, shaggy coat, Maine Coons are unusual in both size and demeanor. A large breed that can weigh up to 20 pounds, the Maine Coon is regarded for its skills as a mouser but is also known to have a passion for the water. Don't be surprised to find a Maine Coon taking a dip in the bathtub or happily splashing (and make a mess out of) the water in their water bowls. Another unusual characteristic of the breed, according to Werber, is that when the breed is happy, it's giant tail will stand straight up into the air, similarly to a raccoon.
Oriental
A cross between the Siamese and the domestic shorthair, the Oriental can uniquely be born with any coloring type. With blurred genetic lines between the Siamese cats, known for their color points and the domestic shorthair, which can be any color, Orientals can be born with identical color points as a Siamese, according to Werber, or any number of colors of a domestic shorthair. This may make distinguishing an Oriental between a Siamese and a domestic shorthair fairly difficult to do.
With long, lean bodies and a very social nature, the Oriental loves to be the center of attention and can have a very long, deep meow similar to their Siamese ancestors. You may also be able to engage your Oriental in a game of fetch, Werber says, as the breed has some doglike qualities.
Bengal
With an incredibly exotic look and a lush coat that stands out among other breeds, the Bengal cat has one of the most unusual appearances by far. Their leopard-like spots can be random, marbled or aligned in rosettes that form a half circle and can be black or brown spotted and black or brown marbled. Some breeders have also created Bengals that are snow spotted, or white with darker white or grey spots, and snow marbled. The breed's coat may also exhibit a trait called glittering, which makes it look as if their coat has been dusted with gold or pearl.
Aside from their magnificent looks, Bengals are a high-energy breed and may retain its hunting instinct from its wild ancestry. This instinct may manifest itself in a pet that likes to pounce, play and even take a dip in the bathtub.
Cheetoh
A cross between a Bengal (pictured) and an Ocicat, the Cheetoh is another exotic-looking house cat that can be very tame personality-wise but is also known for being a bit aloof, according to Werber. With large ears and eyes and a thick, spotted coat, the Cheetoh has the same large, athletic build and low-shouldered walk of a wild cat. Though the Cheetoh has a docile nature and sweet temperament, according to Animal Planet, the breed is also known for its high energy level and curiosity.
Abyssinian
A rare, ancient breed with a silky, multicolored coat and beautiful eyes, the Abyssinian also has an unusually exotic look. While the breed is known for its beauty, it can also be considered quite the class clown and has a curious, courageous nature. Werber says the breed can be both leash trained and taught tricks and is also known for its infatuation with the water. An independent breed, Abyssinians do not like being handled extensively but like being involved in every aspect of its owner's life and is often willing to jump on shoulders or climb bookcases for a better vantage point.
Burmese
A people-oriented breed that can convince even the most "non-cat" person to fall in love with them, according to Werber, the Burmese displays many doglike tendencies. From their keen interest in food to their playful, people-pleasing nature, Burmese cats have been known to engage in a rousing game of fetch and will even follow their owners around the house to give and receive affection. While some cats will break the mold of certain or expected traits of their breed, many Burmese are fond of their people and have a happy, energetic disposition.
Savannah
Another rare breed, the Savannah is a hybrid of a domestic house cat and the African Serval, according to Werber, who says that the first generation of these cats are usually too wild to own but by the third generation (or F3), make suitable house cats. With a bold, spotted coat that can vary in color from brown to black to silver with a variety of different colored spots, the Savannah's coat can also have a classic marbled pattern. Unsurprisingly, considering its lineage, the Savannah is an active, curious breed that looks for adventure and requires plenty of daily interaction and activity. Easily trained to walk on a leash, Savannahs also love to play in the water and can enjoy a game of fetch.
Cornish Rex
Recognized by its highly unusual appearance and crazy-looking coat, the Cornish Rex stands out easily in a crowd. With a medium-sized head, large ears and long legs, the Cornish Rex has soft, wavy hair covering its body. An agile and active breed, the Cornish Rex bonds well with its people and loves to be involved around the house. Because of their need for attention, the breed may become too mischievous for its own good when ignored or left alone for too long.
Mixed Breed
When it comes to wacky behaviors and appearances, mixed breed cats are completely unique and surprisingly common among pet owners. According to Werber, the most popular breeds of cat are the domestic shorthair and domestic longhair, which include the genes of a variety of breeds. These one-of-a-kind cats will possess their own individual personalities and crazy quirks all their own.
While we all love our cats for their unique looks and quirky behaviors, its important to learn as much as you can about your potential pet before deciding to take it home.
"Unfortunately, many people do not do their homework and research behaviors, medical issues and maintenance that are specific to the breeds they are attracted to," said Marilyn Krieger, certified cat behavior consultant and founder of The Cat Coach. "After they have the cat for a period of time, many realize that the cat, although cool looking, is too difficult for them to live with and the cats are surrendered or returned to breeders."
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