There are several cat breeds that are known for their fox-like appearance. While no cat breed is an exact replica of a fox, these breeds often possess certain physical characteristics reminiscent of foxes, such as bushy tails, sleek bodies, and pointed features.
Examples of cats that look like foxes include Somali, Abyssinian, Chasie, Norwegian Forest cats, and others.
Here’s what each of those looks like.
Table of Contents
Cats That Look Like Foxes
1. Somali
The Somali cat breed is known for its long, fluffy fur, bushy tail, and large pointed ears. They have a fox-like appearance due to their sleek bodies and coat coloration, which often includes reddish-brown shades similar to that of a fox. These similarities have also earned them the nickname “fox cats.”
Known for their energetic and social nature, Somalis love to climb, jump, and demand affection. They descend from Abyssinians which some consider to be one of the oldest breeds of domesticated cats.
The first Somali cat appeared in Australian cat shows in the 1960s, and was then referred to as a “long-haired Abyssinian”. Shortly after, people started importing Somali cats to the USA and they quickly became one of America’s favorite breeds.
2. Abyssinian
Abyssinians have slender, agile bodies with short coats that come in various colors, including warm tones like cinnamon and ruddy. They have distinctive wedge-shaped heads, large ears, and almond-shaped eyes, which contribute to their fox-like appearance.
Their noses and chins form a straight vertical line when viewed in profile, further enhancing the resemblance to their wild counterpart.
The Abyssinian breed is also known as Abys. These friendly, curious, and inquisitive cats, are said to be extremely loyal and playful.
The name “Abyssinian” is not because Ethiopia, formerly Abyssinia, is their original home, but because the first “Abyssinians” exhibited in shows in 19th-century England have been imported from there.
According to some studies, the breed most likely originated from the coast of the Indian Ocean in parts of Southeast Asia. Since then, Abyssinian populations and popularity have grown rapidly, making them the top 5 most popular breeds by The Cat Fancier Association and The International Cat Association in 2016.
3. Norwegian Forest
While not an exact match, the Norwegian Forest cats boast certain features reminiscent of foxes. These cats have a strong, muscular build and a triangular-shaped face, which can resemble certain fox characteristics. In addition, their thick double coat, tufted pointy ears, and bushy tails add a touch of fox-like flair to their appearance.
Norwegian forest cats are very sweet, friendly, and a little shy at first. They like to play and have people around them but do not demand constant attention and petting.
They originated from Northern Europe but almost got extinct during WW2. Thanks to the Norwegian Forest Cat Club’s breeding program, they increased in numbers, and in the 1950s, King Olav V declared them the official cat of Norway.
The breed was registered with the American Cat Fanciers Association in 1994.
4. Chausie
The Chausie cat, a hybrid breed derived from domestic and jungle cats, displays a stunning resemblance to its wild ancestry. Thanks to its tall and slender physique enhanced by long legs and a lithe body, the breed is easy to mistake for a fox.
With large, tufted ears and expressive eyes that exhibit an alert and intelligent gaze, the Chausie captures the essence of a wild feline. Their short coat, often adorned with striking patterns, further accentuates their fox-like charm.
First recognized as a domestic breed by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1995, these intelligent and active cats do not like staying alone. They get along well with dogs or other cats and form deep bonds with people.
Their name “Chausie” comes from the scientific name for a jungle cat, “Felis Chaus.” Chausie cats originate from Egypt and reached US breeders around the 1990s.
5. Javanese
Javanese cats have long, silky coats and elegant body shapes. Their large, pointed ears and almond-shaped eyes combined with their sleek body and graceful movements, will leave a fox-like impression.
Also known as colorpoint longhair, the breed was developed in North America. Alert, curious, and extremely loving, they are very attached to people around them. They want to be included in everything and will follow you wherever you go (including the toilet!).
Summary
And there you have it! 5 cat breeds that look like foxes.
These extraordinary cat breeds embody certain fox-like qualities, from their coat colors and patterns to their body and ear shapes, and other facial features. Each breed exhibits a unique charm that adds to the fascination and intrigue surrounding our beloved feline companions.
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