Chausie

Care Level: High (expert-only, demanding needs) Temperament: Highly active, intelligent, wild-at-heart Diet: Raw or grain-free high-protein (mimics wild diet) Lifespan: 12–14 years (F1–F3 generations may have shorter lifespans) Weight: 15–25 lbs (6.8–11.3 kg) – Large, muscular build Distinct Features: Tall, lean body, deep chest, lynx-like ears, ticking or solid coat What Makes This Breed Unique: ➤ Hybrid vigor – Cross between domestic cats and jungle cats (Felis chaus) ➤ Athletic powerhouse – Leaps 8+ feet vertically, sprints like a cheetah ➤ Semi-wild charm – Retains some wild instincts (loves water, strong prey drive) ➤ Dog-like loyalty – Bonds intensely with one person, follows them everywhere The Chausie Experience: The Chausie is not a typical house cat—it’s a high-energy, intelligent hybrid that thrives in an enriched environment. These cats need: ✔ Large, secure spaces (catios or supervised outdoor access) ✔ Daily interactive play (fetch, puzzle toys, leash walks) ✔ Raw or high-meat diet (they have sensitive stomachs) ✔ Early socialization (critical for F1–F3 generations) Coat & Colors: Ticked tabby (like an Abyssinian but wilder) Solid black (from jungle cat ancestry) Short, dense fur – Requires minimal grooming Health & Behavior Notes: ❗ F1–F3 generations (50%–12.5% wild blood) may have: Stronger hunting instincts (not safe with small pets) Higher energy needs (can become destructive if bored) Potential GI sensitivity (raw diet recommended) Ideal For: Experienced owners who want a wild-looking but (mostly) tame companion. Did You Know? The Chausie was developed in the 1990s to create a domestic cat with the jungle cat’s athleticism. F4+ generations (less than 12.5% wild) are considered "domestic" but still retain high energy.