Group Classification: Traditional/Tabby Division (TICA)
Country of Origin: U.S.
Date of Origin: 1980s
Weight (M): 10-12 lbs.
Weight (F): 8-10 lbs.
Life Expectancy: 15+ years
History
Cat breeder Judy Sugden noticed tabby markings on the temples one of her female Bengals, and conceptualized the idea of a'toy tiger' shortly thereafter. She began by locating a male tabby marked with spots between the ears (instead of the standard vertical lines) and began a breeding program. Developing the'tiger coat' through shorthair tabbies, she began creating a longer, heavy body type through the Bengal side of the ancestry. While the breed has been recognized by the International Cat Association and TICA, Sugden and other Toyger breeders state that their cats are still evolving as they all work towards a domestic'toy tiger'.
General Description
While Toyger breeders may feel they have a ways to go yet in creating the perfect tiny tiger, a look at the felines shown to date will convince you they have already achieved their goal in many ways. Thanks to their large muscular frames and long toes, they move with the deliberate heft of jungle cats. Their braided striping mimics that of tigers, as does their white muzzle hair and belly. This is a beautiful example of a designer cat, created by careful breeding.
Put simply, this domestic cat's coat resembles that of a tiger. They have golden or orange bodies with dark stripes and circular faces highlighted by white hair, which may also be present on their underside. They are medium sized, developed for big bones and a muscular frame to better replicate tigers. Lots of long whiskers and deep chins increase the resemblance to big jungle cats.
They are shorthaired, with extremely thick glossy fur. The tail tapers to a rounded tip which is always black. They have vertical body stripes; neck, legs and tail have circular rings of color. Paw pads must be black.
ColorsToygers have a mouse colored undercoat; their orange top coats are marked with dense dark stripes and their undersides and muzzles are white. The TICA standard notes that the degree of contrast between these features is a key trait of the best examples of this breed.
Coat
Dense soft fur (both topcoat and undercoat) thanks to shorthaired and Bengal ancestors. Slightly longer fur on markings is permissible.
Notable Features
Tiny domestic tigers!
Health and Care
In the 20 years since their creation, Toygers appear healthy overall. No hereditary diseases have manifested at this time.
Like most shorthaired cats, they require little grooming. A gentle brushing from time to time with lots of petting in between is all they need.
In addition to being bred to look like tigers, Toyger have been created to be delightful housepets. Friendly and outgoing, they get along well with other animals and children. Their exotic appearance makes them the center of attention, a position they relish. Toygers make wonderful family pets!
Resources
The Toyger Cat at www.toygers.org