As of 2023, there are between 45 and 73 recognized cat breeds in the world. The International Cat Association (TICA) recognizes 73 standardized breeds, while the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) recognizes only 45.
While most of us are familiar with the more popular breeds like the Domestic Shorthair, American Shorthair, Siamese, Ragdoll, and Maine Coon, there are many lesser-known and rare varieties of cats as well. Join ZippyClaws as we take a look at some of the most unusual cat breeds – and learn a little bit about what makes them so unique!
Bombay
Described as the “patent leather kid with the new penny eyes,” the copper-eyed Bombay cat resembles a miniature panther. In fact, that was the goal of breeder Nikki Horner when she began selective breeding of the American Shorthair with the Burmese in 1953. The name “Bombay” was chosen because of the breeds resemblance to the black leopards from Bombay (Mumbai), India. The Bombay cat was recognized as an official breed by the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) in 1976 and in 1979 by the International Cat Association (TICA).
Fun Fact:
Bombay cats are truly unique in that they are completely black. In addition to a sleek and glossy all-black coat, the Bombay also has all-black whiskers, toe beans, nose, and mouth.
Lykoi
Affectionately known as the “wolf cat” or “werewolf cat,” the Lykoi (from “lycos,” the Greek word for wolf) is one of the newest recognized cat breeds. The breed’s truly unique appearance and characteristics are the result of a natural mutation discovered in a feral cat colony in the United States. Partially hairless, the Lykoi’s roan coat (a mixture of colored and white hairs) lacks an undercoat, and the partial hairlessness around the eyes, nose, muzzle and chin give them their striking werewolf-like appearance.
Fun Fact:
Lykoi cats change colors. Yes, you read that right. Lykoi usually have pink skin, but when exposed to sunlight or heat their skin will slowly turn dark – even pitch black. Remove them from the light or heat and their skin will slowly return to pink.
Singapura
The Singapura, also known as the Kucinta – a hybrid of the Malay words kucing (cat) and cinta (love) – is a relatively rare natural cat breed originating from the “Lion City” of Singapore. Small in stature, but big in cuteness and personality, the tiny but mighty Singapura has been embraced as a mascot and beloved cultural symbol in Singapore. Its distinguishing features include a muscular build, rounded head, blunt nose, and large, slightly pointed ears. They possess large almond-shaped eyes that come in hazel, green, or yellow – and their coat comes in one color: sepia agouti (dark brown ticking with ivory undertones).
Fun Fact:
According to Guinness World Records, the Singapura cat breed holds the distinction of being the smallest domestic cat breed in the world. The Singapura is approximately half the size of the average domestic cat, usually not weighing more than 5 pounds.
Abyssinian
Ranked as one of the most popular cat breeds in the United States, the Abyssinian was first exhibited in 1871 at the Crystal Palace cat show. Abys, as they are lovingly nicknamed, are long, lean, and strikingly beautiful felines that are often referred to as the supermodels of the cat world. While the name implies that the breed originates from Abyssinia, or modern-day Ethiopia, genetics show that the Abyssinian most likely originated from the coast of the Indian Ocean and parts of Southeast Asia. With its slender, athletic build and distinctive ticked coat, the Abyssinian is one of the most recognizable cat breeds, and is also considered one of the friendliest.
Fun Fact:
Jake, the alien cat from Disney’s The Cat from Outer Space (1978), was played by two Abyssinian siblings, Rumple and Amber. The Abyssinian breed was chosen because the filmmakers thought it looked more “alien.”
Khao Manee
Considered one of the rarest domestic cats in the world, the Khao Manee is an ancient cat breed originating in Thailand. With a name that means “white gem,” it’s not surprising that the Khao Manee is a pure white cat. Also known as the Diamond Eye cat because of its brilliant gemstone-like eyes, the Khao Manee’s eyes can be shades of blue, gold, and green – some even having odd-eyes with one of each color or multiple colors within one eye. Rarely seen outside of Thailand, the first Khao Manee cats to come to the United States were imported in 1999.
Fun Fact:
The Khao Manee appears in the Tamra Maew (“Treatise on Cats” or “Cat-Book Poems”), a folding-book manuscript from 19th-century Thailand featuring 23 illustrations of Thai cat breeds accompanied by descriptions in Thai poetic verse.
