Cheetoh

• ExerciseVery high

  A little athlete: expect zoomies, climbing and lots of active play.

• GroomingWash & go

  Their own tongue does most of the work — an occasional brush helps.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Appreciates a roomy home with plenty to climb and patrol.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy · Progressive retinal atrophy · Obesity

The Cheetoh is a 2001 American breed made by crossing the Bengal with the Ocicat, both of which are already fully domestic. It was designed to look like a small cheetah: a long muscular body, prominent shoulders and a distinctive low, stalking walk, with rosetted spots on a golden ground. Males can reach ten kilograms, which makes it one of the largest domestic breeds. It is registered by TICA as an experimental breed and is uncommon. The energy level is the honest headline. A Cheetoh inherits the Bengal's drive and the Ocicat's sociability, and it is simply too active for a small quiet home. It needs long daily interactive play, tall climbing furniture, puzzle feeding and often a second active cat. Many owners harness-train them and give them supervised outdoor time. Bored Cheetohs open doors and cupboards, dismantle things and can become destructive; this is a cat that punishes neglect. Grooming is minimal thanks to the short close coat. On health, take the parent breeds seriously: buy only from a breeder who echocardiogram-screens for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and DNA-tests for Bengal progressive retinal atrophy and pyruvate kinase deficiency. Beyond screening, feed a large active cat properly, keep a dental routine, and secure your windows, because a ten-kilo athlete with a hunting drive will test them.

• How much play does a Cheetoh need?

  Very high. A little athlete: expect zoomies, climbing and lots of active play.

• How much grooming does a Cheetoh need?

  Wash & go. Their own tongue does most of the work — an occasional brush helps.

• Is a Cheetoh suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Appreciates a roomy home with plenty to climb and patrol.

• Is a Cheetoh a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Cheetoh live?

  12–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Cheetoh?

  Keep an eye out for Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Progressive retinal atrophy, Obesity. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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