8 Cats That Look Like Leopards – Spot The Similarities

In the vast world of animals, scientists have identified about 1.2 million different species. While each species is unique, many share similar physical traits. This is especially true for some domestic cats that bear a striking resemblance to leopards.

These leopard-like cats often have spots, stripes, or patterns on their fur that mimic the wild big cats. Their body shape, ear structure, and even eye color can be remarkably similar to leopards.

However, it’s important to note that despite their appearance, these cats have very different origins and genetic backgrounds from their wild counterparts.

Related Article: What Are Pedigreed Cats?

If you love cats that resemble leopards and want to know their types and breeds, I’ve compiled information on eight types of leopard-like cats. Let’s have a closer look.

Why Do Some Cats Look Like Leopards?

It’s all about how their fur looks. Wild leopards have spots on their fur. Similarly, some pet cats have spots that look like leopard spots. This can make them look like little leopards running around your home! Let’s talk about the cats that resemble leopards in detail.

1. Bengals

The Bengal cat is probably the most leopard-like of all house cats.

Appearance

Bengals have sleek, muscular bodies and coats covered in spots or rosettes (rose-shaped markings). Their hair can be different colors, such as light brown, dark brown, yellow-brown, or gray. Their fur has black spots or lines.

Personality

These cats are energetic, playful, and love to climb. They are intelligent and require plenty of attention and playtime.

Fun Fact

Bengal cats were created by breeding domestic cats with wild Asian cats, giving them their distinct wild appearance.

2. Ocicat

Ocicat is another breed that looks like a wild cat despite being completely domestic.

Appearance

Ocicats have large, oval spots all over their body. They come in many colors: brown, chocolate, cinnamon, blue, lilac, and fawn.

Personality

These friendly cats love being around people and enjoy playing. They can even be trained to do fun tricks, similar to dogs.

Fun Fact

When an Abyssinian cat and a Siamese cat were bred, one of the kittens was born with spots resembling a leopard.

3. Egyptian Mau

The Egyptian Mau is a natural breed, not created by humans through selective breeding.

Appearance

Egyptian Mau’s have spots that are randomly scattered over their body. They can be silver, bronze, or smoke-colored.

Personality

These active cats love to play and are known for their strong loyalty to their families.

Fun Fact

Egyptian Mau cats are the fastest pet cats, capable of running up to 30 miles per hour, which is comparable to a car driving slowly in a city.

4. Savannah

Savannah cats have a wild appearance and are quite large for house cats. Their spotted fur gives them a look similar to jungle cats.

Appearance

These cats feature long legs, large ears, and a coat with spots or stripes. Their fur comes in various shades of brown with black spots or stripes.

Personality

Savannahs are energetic, curious, and very smart. They need lots of space and activity to be happy.

Fun Fact

Savannah cats are created by breeding domestic cats with a wild African serval.

5. Toyger

The Toyger is a relatively new breed, created intentionally to resemble a small tiger. Its name reflects its tiger-like appearance.

Appearance

Toygers have orange fur with black stripes, similar to a tiger. While they don’t have spots like a leopard, their striped pattern still gives them a wild look.

Personality

These cats are friendly and playful, comfortable with humans, and get along well with other pets at home.

Fun Fact

The name ‘Toyger’ is a blend of ‘toy’ and ‘tiger’!

6. Cheetoh

Don’t confuse this with the snack! The Cheetoh cat is a mix of the Bengal and Ocicat breeds.

Appearance

Cheetoh cats have spots from both parent breeds, with fur in various colors such as light or dark brown, yellowish, or gray.

Personality

These cats are known for their playful and active nature, enjoying social interactions and being around people. Their sociable behavior makes them engaging companions.

Fun Fact

Despite their name, Cheetoh cats resemble leopards more than cheetahs.

7. Serengeti

The Serengeti cat was bred to resemble a serval, an African wild cat.

Appearance

Serengeti cats have a distinctive appearance with long legs, large ears, and spotted fur that gives them a wild look. Their coats come in various colors, including brown and gray.

Personality

These cats are active and curious, with a love for exploration. They require plenty of playtime and attention to stay happy and healthy.

Fun Fact

Unlike some breeds, Serengeti cats don’t have wild cat DNA. They were created by breeding domestic cats, specifically Bengal and Oriental Shorthairs.

8. Abyssinian

The Abyssinian is a pet cat with a wild look, reminiscent of small African wild cats, though it doesn’t have leopard-like spots.

Appearance

Abyssinians feature a unique ‘ticked tabby’ coat pattern, with each hair showcasing multiple colors, giving them a warm and vibrant appearance. Their fur can be ruddy, red, blue, or fawn. Though they lack spots, their wild coloration and sleek body shape create a leopard-like look.

Personality

These cats are highly active, curious, and intelligent. They love climbing to get a view from above and are known as ‘busy’ cats, always eager to be involved in their humans’ activities.

Fun Fact

Abyssinian cats have been cherished pets for a long time. Some believe they descend from the sacred cats of ancient Egypt, although their exact origins remain uncertain.