Hybrid cat breeds are the result of breeding a wildcat with a domestic house cat – and as you can imagine, true hybrids are actually quite rare. That's why you'll often see hybrid cat lists (like this one) including crossbreeds as well, which is when two domestic cats of different breeds are brought together to create a new breed.
When you adopt a true hybrid, you can expect your new feline friend to have some very wild instincts and these traits may be more or less prominent depending on whether they're a first, second, or third-generation hybrid.
With a crossbreed, you can also expect a great deal of variation in both nature and behavior as one kitten in a litter could take after their chatty Siamese father and another could more closely resemble their easygoing American Shorthair mother.
Regardless of which kitty you end up welcoming into your family, you'll want to make sure you have plenty of the best cat toys on hand to offer them the stimulation they need to thrive, as well as suitable food and bedding – not to mention dishing out plenty of love and affection!
If you're keen on a hybrid or crossbreed cat, here are our favorite mixed breeds that are well worth considering...
What is a hybrid cat?
Hybrid cat breeds are the result of a domestic cat being bred with another domestic cat or a wild cat to create a separate breed. This not only creates a ton of genetic diversity but it can also lead to less predictability when it comes to a cat's size, markings or temperament.
Hybrid cat breeds are becoming more popular as they often give those looking for a feline friend the best of two worlds. For example, someone may love a Persian cat's nature but be more inclined towards a cat that's a little less high maintenance from a grooming perspective. A hybrid can give them that.
However, hybrid breeds are not without controversy. When domestic cats are bred with wild cats, as is often the case, owners can be presented with major challenges that they may not be prepared for. This may include health problems or behavioral needs that require a lot of time and energy.
If you're thinking of adopting a kitten or cat, always do your research and speak to a vet so you familiarize yourself with your chosen breeds temperament, exercise needs and potential health issues.
Hybrid cat breeds – and a few unusual mixes
1. Asian
A cross between the Burmese and the Chinchilla Persian, the Asian is quieter than the former but sensitive to stress like the latter.
Sleek, long, and lean, the Asian cat is intelligent, fun-loving, and has a very inquisitive nature. Although they require a lot of mental and physical stimulation in the form of interactive cat toys, puzzles, and games, on the whole, the Asian is a good cat for first-time owners. While they are very friendly cats, they're also quite independent and are more than happy to be left alone during the day as long as they have things to occupy themselves with.
2. Australian Mist
A mix of the Abyssinian, Burmese, and Australian Tabby, the Australian Mist is a medium-sized, short-haired breed with large expressive eyes and a coat that comes in seven different colors.
Bred to be a companion cat, they have an outstanding temperament and are wonderful with everyone from children to seniors. If you're looking for a lap cat breed, the Australian Mist is a good choice and they also get on very well with other pets.
3. Bambino
The bambino is a very new breed, having only been developed in 2005. A cross between the hairless Sphynx and the short-legged munchkin, their rarity means you can expect to pay somewhere in the vicinity of an eye-watering $2,800 for the privilege of owning one!
One of just a few non-shedding cats, they're a great choice for those allergic to cats as while they do have a fine layer of peach fuzz covering their body, they don't have fur so to speak.
Affectionate and playful, they thrive on human companionship and don't like being left alone for long periods.
4. Bengal
What do you get when you cross an Asian Leopard cat with a domestic cat? Why the bright and agile Bengal cat of course!
Hard to miss thanks to their boldly spotted coats that make them look like they've just wandered out of the jungle, Bengals definitely have a wild appearance but they make wonderful companions.
Affectionate and sociable, they're a friend to all and love being a part of family life. They are active cats who will be more than happy to don a harness and leash and hit the trails with you or take to the water in a kayak.
The Bengal requires lots of stimulation to keep their brains engaged and do well in multi-pet households where they tend to form firm friendships, making them a good cat breed for dog owners.
5. Birman
One of the most affectionate cat breeds, the lovable Birman was created by crossing the Siamese and the Persian to create the irresistibly fluffy feline that adored the world over. Birman's are known for being incredibly gentle and make beautiful companions for people of all ages and stages.
One of the quietest cats with a sweet nature, they are very social and don't do well when left alone. However, most adore other cats and dogs, so if you do happen to work outside the home, getting them a friend to keep them company is s great solution.
Patient and tolerant, they also make good playmates for children and tend to follow their owners from room to room.
6. Bombay
A cross between the black American Shorthair and the sable Burmese, the Bombay looks a bit like a miniature panther – the only difference is you won't have to fear for your life if you ever come across one!
If you've ever found yourself wondering 'Can cats play fetch?', well, they certainly can if they're a Bombay. Known for being quite dog-like in their behavior, they are very active and playful cats who have a reputation for following their owners wherever they go.
While not loud, Bombay's are chatty cats who enjoy conversing with their humans.
7. Burmilla
Originating in the UK in the early 1980s, the Burmilla is the result of crossing the Burmese and the Chinchilla Persian. They make intelligent and devoted companions and their charming, mischievous nature means most people are easily won over by them.
When it comes to high-maintenance cat breeds, the Burmilla is definitely up there as they crave attention and can be quite demanding when they feel their humans aren't giving them enough of it!
But while they are indeed pushy at times, they are also endearingly sweet and gentle cats who will get along well with children and other pets.
8. California Spangled
Intentionally bred to resemble a leopard, the California Spangled is a cross between the Abyssinian, American Shorthair, and British Shorthair as well as several spotted domestic cats from Malaysia and Egypt.
Although they were developed in the 1970s, they remain one of the rarest cat breeds in the world – with only around 200 in the world, they are classified as being in danger of extinction.
Not an awful lot is known about this cat, but the California Spangled is said to be very docile, gentle, and affectionate in nature and they thrive on being in the constant company of their human family.
9. Chausie
A hybrid of the Abyssinian and the jungle cat (a species of wild cat from South Asia, the chausie (pronounced chow-see) is a tall, long-legged, and lean kitty built for running and jumping.
Because they're highly athletic and love to climb, you'll want to ensure you have one of the best cat trees in your house if you plan on welcoming one of these little adventurers into your family.
Good-natured and affectionate, the chausie bonds deeply with their owners and because they're highly sociable and intelligent, they can often be trained to walk on a leash, do tricks, and play fetch.
10. Colorpoint shorthair
The result of breeding American Shorthairs and Abyssinians with the Siamese, the colorpoint shorthair can be found in over a dozen colors and has a long, lean and muscular body with a triangular face and almond-shaped eyes.
Their coats require minimal maintenance and they shed very little, making them a good choice for any home where allergies are an issue.
Persistent in their seeking of attention, they form strong and deep bonds with their humans and have very sensitive natures. Because they're so active and playful, they tend to thrive in busy homes and enjoy learning tricks.
11. Dwelf
When it comes to small breed cats, the Dwelf is definitely a top contender, growing to between six and seven inches and weighing somewhere in the vicinity of four to eight pounds.
Named for its elf-like features and dwarf-like stature, this hairless cat breed is a cross between the American Curl, munchkin, and sphynx. Known for their dog-like nature, they are highly intelligent and social cats who require constant human companionship.
Highly compatible with children and other pets, they make a great addition to the family and their knack for engaging in mischievous antics is sure to keep you laughing.
12. Exotic shorthair
While they may have some American or British Shorthair in the mix (depending on which side of the Atlantic they're being bred) the exotic shorthair is really a mirror image of the other breed used to create them – the Persian.
If you've ever wanted a Persian but didn't have the time, energy, or desire to keep on top of all that fur, the exotic shorthair could well be the feline friend for you.
Affectionate and playful, they adore their humans and because they're so tolerant, patient, and gentle, they tend to be an excellent fit for families with children. While they can take some time to warm up to strangers, they're typically very outgoing with their chosen humans, and unlike the Persian, they're much more lively in nature.
13. Foldex
Developed in Quebec, the foldex (sometimes referred to as the exotic fold) is a cross between the exotic shorthair and the Scottish Fold. Loyal, loving, cuddly, and sweet, foldex cats adore their owners and prefer quiet environments where they can sleep, snuggle up with their owners and spend quality time together.
This breed doesn't like being left alone and they're also not keen on strangers, preferring to stick close to their chosen few. Because they don't enjoy noise and chaos, they're not typically a good choice for families with young children but they can do well with older children who will respect their boundaries.
14. Havana Brown
The result of breeding between the Siamese and domestic black cats, the Havana Brown has a rich chocolate-colored coat and an elegant appearance.
This is a kitty that likes to be as close to their people as possible and they don't do well with being left alone. In fact, even if you're always with them, they'll still be sure to let you know when they don't feel like they're being given enough of your attention!
Friendly and social, they'll be more than happy to engage in a spirited game and then snuggle up on your lap afterward for a cuddle session.
15. Highlander
Did you know that there are some cat breeds that like water? It's true, just ask the Highlander! A cross between the desert lynx and the jungle curl, the Highlander may be a large cat but they're true gentle giants who love to be the center of attention.
Incredibly dog-like in their behavior, Highlanders can be trained to walk on a leash and play fetch, and they love nothing more than to zoom about after the best automated cat toys.
They adore children and are known for being very sweet and patient with them and because they get along with everyone, they do well in homes where there are other pets around.
16. Himalayan
A cross between the Persian and the Siamese, the striking Himalayan has a long, fluffy coat and smooshed face courtesy of their Persian side and gorgeous pointed coloring that comes from their Siamese lineage.
Himalayans are delightfully laid-back and docile but their coat needs daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles from forming. While not necessarily active, they have bursts of energy like all cats do and enjoy short play sessions.
Although they love to spend time with their owners, they have enough independence to quietly occupy themselves when their favorite people are too busy to give them attention.
17. Javanese
While they are indeed named after the island of Java in Indonesia, the Javanese were actually developed in North America by breeding the Siamese with the Balinese, colorpoint shorthair, and the oriental longhair.
As you'd expect from their ancestry, these cats are very outgoing, chatty, curious, and affectionate – not to mention super intelligent! Training your cat will be fairly easy if you have a Javanese in your home as they love learning new commands and tricks and respond really well to things like clicker training.
18. Kinkalow
A cross between the American Curl and the munchkin, the adorable kinkalow has curled back ears and tiny legs, and at just seven to eight inches tall, they're one of those small breed cats that will always look like a kitten.
Their short legs make them unsuitable for life outdoors, so they need to be kept indoors and preferably with someone who can be home with them most of the day as kinkalow's are very affectionate, spunky cats who love to play and spend time with their owners.
The life and soul of the party, kinkalow's like to be involved in absolutely everything and they are incredibly gregarious and outgoing, so they'll be more than happy to give everyone who passes through your door a very warm welcome.
19. Lambkin
A very rare breed indeed, the adorably named lambkin is a cross between the curly-coated Selkirk Rex and the short-legged munchkin. Named for its gorgeous sheep-like fur, the lambkin is seven inches tall and weighs up to nine pounds.
Their calm, gentle, and loving nature makes this feline a great choice for people of all ages and stages, and while playful, they're also very laid-back and love to spend long periods snoozing.
This is a very people-oriented kitty who gets along beautifully with everyone they come into contact with. However, it's worth noting that they are a very controversial breed because of their munchkin lineage – dwarfism can cause serious health issues so that's something you need to be prepared for.
20. Minskin
The minskin is the result of cross-breeding the munchkin and Burmese with a splash of Sphynx and Devon Rex thrown in for good measure.
A dwarf-cat breed native to the US, they're a small breed with a round head, large ears and very little fur. They are outstanding indoor climbers (which is rather remarkable given their short legs) and this should be encouraged as exercise is important for their spinal health.
Referred to as having a superior level of intelligence, they are very playful while still being incredibly gentle. The minskin has a natural affinity for children so they can be a good choice for families as long as children know that they need to be delicate in their handling of them.
21. Minuet
Also known as the Napoleon, the minuet is a hybrid mix of Persian and munchkin and has a sweet, baby-doll face (something they inherited from their Persian side) and a sturdy body (courtesy of their munchkin ancestors).
They are both gentle (a Persian trait) and energetic (a munchkin characteristic), so they're a good choice if you're looking for a lap-warming yet playful companion. Affectionate and people-oriented, they're charming cats, which is just as well as they do have a knack for getting into mischief!
22. Ocicat
You'll want to whip out the best cat puzzle feeder if you have an ocicat in your family as this breed is highly intelligent and loves having a challenge to sink its teeth into. While they may resemble a small wild cat, the ocicat was developed by breeding the Siamese, Abyssinian, and American Shorthair and is a friendly, people-oriented kitty who makes a very devoted companion. Adaptable enough to fit into almost any living situation, they love attention and aren't fond of being left alone. Active and athletic with bucket loads of energy, they have a dog-like disposition and are always keen to learn new tricks and commands.
23. Oriental longhair
Coming in every possible combination of coat color and pattern, the oriental longhair is the most diverse cat breed in the world. Breeders wanted a Siamese cat but with more variety in terms of coat color, and so the oriental longhair is the result of crossing the Siamese with a range of different breeds including the Russian Blue, British Shorthair, Abyssinian, and Balinese.
As you'd expect from having a good dose of Siamese in the mix, most oriental longhairs are full of personality so expect an outgoing, voca,l and curious companion with a good-natured temperament.
24. Oriental shorthair
Closely related to the oriental longhair, the oriental shorthair is a Siamese hybrid. A vibrant kitty who adores the spotlight, this attention-seeking breed often goes by the nickname the 'honking cat' due to their meow sounding more like a goose than a cat!
Inquisitive, “Velcro-like” felines who attach strongly to their humans, they are incredibly affectionate and when they're not busy exploring, you'll often find them curled up in a warm lap.
Because they hate to be alone and need constant stimulation, it's worth getting your Oriental Shorthair a buddy to free you up to do other things from time to time.
25. Peterbald
The Peterbald is the result of an experiment in the 1990s that saw the Don Sphynx being crossed with the oriental shorthair. The result is a sweet-tempered cat with a fiercely loyal and affectionate nature.
Keen to be part of all aspects of day-to-day life and always eager to interact with their humans, the Peterbald is one of the most social breeds, and as well as getting on well with adults, they also love the company of children and other pets.
Just be mindful that their lack of fur means they need weekly baths to remove excess oil from their skin and if you plan to let them outside, they'll need sunscreen in the summer and a sweater in the winter.
26. Ragamuffin
Ragamuffin cats are the sweethearts of the feline world with these little darlings being one of the best cats for families with children. They have a gentleness and patience that's almost unmatched amongst other breeds and make the most placid and loving of friends.
If you have young children who think dressing their cat up, pushing them around in a pram or inviting them to a tea party is their idea of heaven, the ragamuffin will be all too happy to oblige with not a hint of a grumpy facial expression in sight. This ragdoll hybrid is easy-going, loves to cuddle and gets along well with everyone.
27. Ragdoll
The ragdoll cat was created in the 1960s when a long-haired Angora-type cat by the name of Josephine mated with a non-pedigree male and produced several litters of kittens with very docile and affectionate natures.
Out of those litters came Blackie (an all-black male) and Daddy Warbucks (a seal point with white feet). Blackie went on to sire Buckwheat, a dark-brown female who later mated with Daddy Warbucks to start the breed we now know as the ragdoll.
With a reputation for being placid and sweet, ragdolls are friendly to all and hugely lovable with their human family. A large breed who adores being petted, they're big softies who thrive on cuddles and are true lap cats.
28. Savannah
The result of crossing a serval with a domestic cat, the Savannah is a lively and energetic breed with a brown or black-spotted coat. Playful, adventurous, and loyal, they love splashing about in water and can be trained to walk on a leash.
Savannahs have a mild temperament but strong hunting instincts, so while they can be kept in homes with other cats and dogs, it's best to avoid this breed if you have fish, birds, or other small pets like rabbits and hamsters in your home.
This is a daring cat who will keep you on your toes and they need constant interaction and stimulation, but as long as you can meet their needs, they can make wonderfully affectionate and devoted companions.
29. Selkirk Rex
The Selkirk Rex has quite a diverse gene pool with breeds such as the American Shorthair, British Shorthair, exotic shorthair, and Persian all being used to develop these curly-coated cuties.
The largest of all the rex cats, the Selkirk Rex is heavy-boned and can weigh up to 16 pounds. One of the most low-energy cat breeds, they have bursts of playful energy but for the most part, they'll be quite content to curl up in your lap.
Gentle, affectionate, and sociable, they're good companions for children and other pets, and while not demanding, they need frequent human interaction.
30. Snowshoe
The snowshoe is a rare breed of cat developed by crossing the Siamese with the American Shorthair. A medium to large cat with large slanting eyes and wide-set ears, the snowshoe has mittened paws covered with snow-white fur.
They are a true mix of the two breeds used to create them, inheriting the chattiness of the Siamese and the laid-back nature of the American Shorthair.
Snowshoes have a playful spirit and love connecting with people, so they're good companions for everyone including children and seniors.
31. Tonkinese
Being a hybrid of the Siamese and Burmese, you've probably already guessed that the Tonkinese is going to be quite the full-on family member! Social, sweet, and oh-so-smart, the Tonk (as they're often affectionately referred to) is a charming cat with a chirpy voice.
If you've always wanted a kitty who will converse with you but find the meow of the Siamese a bit too jarring and demanding, you'll love the gentler tone of the Tonk.
While they love to play and are naturally quite active cats, they're also very easygoing and are quite content to simply be with their family without needing lots of entertainment.
32. Toyger
A designer breed named because they resemble a toy tiger, the toyger is a Bengal hybrid with an athletic build and a people-oriented nature.
When not playing, they're happiest curled up in their owner's lap and it's this delightful combination of fun-loving feline meets affectionate snuggle buddies that makes them such a good choice for families with children.
While the toyger will delight in having you join in and play with them, as long as there are plenty of toys and games around, they're also quite happy to amuse themselves for hours at a time.
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