7 Cheetah Print Cats That Are Domestic & Look like Leopards

The allure of the wild is always fascinating to humans. How would you feel if you could get hold of a little cheetah? Absolutely amazing, right? Yes, there’s something undeniably enchanting about having a cute little animal that mirrors the untamed spirit of a jungle cat.

The cheetah print cat isn’t just a product of the wild savannahs of Africa; they’re also playfully pouncing in our very homes. Some passionate breeders have produced mini-leopards for our living rooms. So, now you can get your own cheetah without any restrictions.

Take a look at 7 cheetah print leopard like cats that you can adopt as your companion.

1. Savannah Cats – The Big Leopard

Origin	United States
Lifespan	12 to 20 years
Average weight:	12 to 25 pounds
Scientific name	Felis catus × Leptailurus serval

The Savannah cat is one of the best cheetah looking cat breeds for cat enthusiasts. Bridging the gap between the domestic and the wild, the Savannah cat captures hearts with its distinct cheetah-like spots and long, graceful legs reminiscent of its African namesake.

Originating from a cross between the serval, a wild African cat, and a domesticated breed, the Savannah cat is not just about looks. Their playful nature and incredible agility make them a spectacle, especially during playtime. You might catch them leaping to impressive heights or playing fetch, showcasing their keen hunting instincts. Yet, they retain a sweet disposition, often forming tight bonds with their human families.

Their coat, a warm golden hue stippled with bold, dark spots, is where the cheetah resemblance shows. This stunning pattern, coupled with their slightly larger build and tall ears, often sparks curiosity and admiration. But it’s essential to remember that while their appearance screams wild, their hearts are very much domestic.

With the right care, socialization, and understanding, a Savannah cat can be a delightful and majestic addition to a household, blending the raw beauty of the African plains with the loving nature of the cats we’ve grown to adore.

2. Bengal Cats – The Little Junglee

Origin	United States
Lifespan	12 to 16 years
Average weight:	8 to 15 pounds
Scientific name	Felis catus × Prionailurus bengalensis

The Bengal cat is a vivid embodiment of the wild right within our homes. At first glance, their shimmering, sleek coats with spots akin to leopards can make one feel like they’ve stepped into a rainforest. Originating from crossbreeding between the Asian leopard cat and domestic cats, the Bengal is more than just its enchanting appearance.

They’re vibrant in personality, too! Bengals are known for their boundless energy, often found clambering on high shelves or splashing in water bowls, exhibiting an unusual love for water. Their intelligence and inquisitiveness can sometimes border on mischief, but it’s all in good fun.

Despite their origins, Bengals crave human interaction and bond deeply with their families. They’ll often talk using a range of chirps and meows, making them delightfully communicative companions. Truly, the Bengal is a small slice of the jungle, bringing spirited adventures into our living spaces.

3. Ocicats – The Happy Meow

Origin	United States
Lifespan	15 to 18 years
Average weight:	6 to 15 pounds
Scientific name	Felis catus

The Ocicat, one of the domestic cheetah cats, doesn’t really have an authentic wild cat in it, but the breed has got ancient genetics to form. Ocicats, with their cheetah print allure, are undeniably captivating. From a distance, one might mistake this striking breed for a wild cat, yet these felines are wholly domestic, born from a blend of Siamese, Abyssinian, and American Shorthair genetics. The result? A cat that boasts the spotted grandeur of a cheetah but desires the cozy lap of a loving owner.

But don’t be fooled by their exotic appearance; Ocicats are known for their affectionate nature and playful demeanor. They’re social butterflies of the feline world, engaging with family members, guests, and even other pets.

Their name, drawing inspiration from the ocelot, reflects their wilderness-like aesthetics, but these cheetah print felines are very friendly, trainable, and ever-eager for human companionship. With an Ocicat, you get the thrill of the wild with the warmth of the familiar.

4. Chausie Cats – A Domestic Tiger

Origin	Egypt
Lifespan	15 years
Average weight:	9 to 15 pounds
Scientific name	Felis catus

The Chausie cat, pronounced Chow-see, is a captivating blend of wild Jungle cat and domesticated one. Deriving its intriguing name from the scientific moniker of its wild ancestor, Felis chaus, this breed stands out with a distinctive cougar-like appearance. Rather than the typical leopard spots, the Chausie’s facial features and sandy coat often earn it comparisons to a lion, earning it the playful nickname of the petite cougar.

But it’s not just their look that’s wild; their spirit is too. Bursting with energy, the Chausie thrives on activity. It’s not uncommon to see them indulging in vigorous play, enjoying water games, or even being leash-trained for outdoor adventures. Described by many as having the heart of a dog trapped in a cat’s body, their fearless and focused nature is both charming and challenging.

For those seeking a feline with the zest of the wilderness and the compatibility of a house pet, the Chausie is a beautiful paradox that promises endless entertainment and affection.

5. Abyssinian Cats – The Gorgeous

Origin	Ethiopia, South East Asia
Lifespan	9 to 15 years
Average weight:	8 to 15 pounds
Scientific name	Felis catus

The Abyssinian cat traces its roots to the bygone era of pharaohs and pyramids. Their name hints at an Ethiopian origin, yet their true ancestral lands remain a subject of speculation and folklore. What’s undeniable, however, is their unmistakable charm.

Abyssinians captivate at first sight with their athletic build and amazing coat. Their fur, distinctly ticked with multiple colors on each strand, gleams with a reddish-gold hue reminiscent of sunlit amber. But it’s their vivacious personality that also wins everyone’s heart. Endlessly curious, these cats are always on the move, exploring nooks, climbing high vantage points, and chasing after the slightest rustle.

Moreover, Abyssinians are profoundly affectionate. With an Abyssinian, you’re not just adopting a cat; you’re welcoming a piece of history and a bundle of joy into your home.

6. Cheetoh Cats – The Real Cheetah

Origin	United States
Lifespan	12 to 14 years
Average weight:	8 to 15 pounds
Scientific name	Felis catus

Cheetoh cats, as their name suggests, exude an aura of the wild that’s hard to resist. Born from the union of Bengal and Ocicat breeds, the Cheetoh encapsulates the best of both worlds, creating a domestic feline with an unmistakably exotic appeal.

Their bodies, muscular yet graceful, are adorned with intricate patterns and spots that conjure images of cheetahs sprinting through open savannahs. The blend of deep rusts, warm browns, and occasional silvers in their coat paints a picture of a sunset on the African plains.

Yet, beneath this wild exterior beats the heart of a gentle domestic creature. Cheetoh cats are known for their sociable and affectionate nature. They thrive in the company of their human families, often seeking out attention and play. Their high intelligence and curious demeanor mean they’re always up for interactive play sessions or simply exploring their surroundings.

Though relatively new in the feline world, the Cheetoh has rapidly gained popularity. Their gentle disposition, combined with their striking appearance, makes them an irresistible choice for cat enthusiasts. Cheetoh Cat offers the thrill of the wild while fitting perfectly into the modern family setting.

7. Egyptian Mau – The Ancient

Origin	Egypt
Lifespan	12 to 15 years
Average weight:	8 to 12 pounds
Scientific name	Felis catus

Originating from the land of the pharaohs, the Egyptian Mau stands as a living testament to ancient history. This cat, often recognized as one of the earliest domesticated breeds, bears a legacy that intertwines with the age-old stories of Cleopatra, the pyramids, and the mighty Nile.

The Egyptian Mau cats captivate millions of people with their coats patterned in random spots. Their green, almond-shaped eyes seem to hold millennia of secrets, casting a gaze that’s both regal and enigmatic. The name Mau, which translates to cat in ancient Egyptian, speaks volumes of their integral presence in the annals of the region.

But beyond their majestic appearance, the Egyptian Mau is celebrated for its agility. Renowned as one of the fastest domestic cats, they can exhibit remarkable bursts of speed when playful or curious. Their gracefulness is matched by a gentle and affectionate nature, making them endearing companions.

To own an Egyptian Mau is to embrace a fragment of antiquity.

There are also several other cheetah cats that are domestic:

• Mokave Jag cats
• Toygers
• Pixie Bobs
• Serengeti cats
• Somali cats

Conclusion

There’s no denying that cheetah print cats are attractive. With their wild markings and designs, these breeds give us a taste of nature’s extraordinary beauty without us having to leave our homes. Their unique looks, which remind people of regal wild cats, go well with their friendly personalities, which have made them popular in homes all over the world.

Each breed, from the lively Savannah to the ancient Egyptian Mau, has its own story to tell, but they all have one thing in common: a mix of wild beauty and homey love. Taking care of a cheetah print cat is more than just having a pet. It’s a beautiful dance between the wild and the safe.