The Toyger is a designer cat breed created to resemble a small version of a tiger, with a luxurious coat and a striking, tiger-like pattern. Its short, plush fur is thick and soft to the touch, with a resilient texture that gives it a unique appearance. The coat also has a sheen, known as "glitter," that adds a sparkling effect to the fur, which is highly desirable. The more glitter, the better, as long as it doesn't affect the contrast of the pattern.
The markings on a Toyger should be dark—ideally black, brown, or tan—set against a warm, rufous (reddish-brown) background. A bright, pumpkin-coloured ground with dark markings is preferred. A high contrast between the markings and background is important, and the Toyger's whited areas, such as the belly and parts of the face, should be as light or nearly white as possible. The coat should have a sculpted look, with the markings slightly longer than the background fur. The fur around the temples and jowls may also be slightly longer, creating a ruff, which is a desirable trait.
Toygers are medium-sized cats with a muscular build, giving them the strength and elegance of a wild cat in a domestic body. They are bred with urban living in mind and have a calm, laid-back temperament, making them ideal companions. Toygers are intelligent, easy to train, and have a quiet disposition. They are athletic but not overly energetic, with a confident, graceful movement reminiscent of their wild counterparts.
Female Toygers tend to be smaller and less muscular than males and may not have the head ruff seen in some males. Kittens often have slightly longer coats and appear less coordinated as they grow. The coat colour can change with the seasons, and it's acceptable to trim ear fur for a more rounded appearance.
Overall, the Toyger is a beautiful, affectionate, and adaptable breed, designed to thrive as a loving companion in modern homes.