Mary Allen
What are Toygers?
Toygers are a relatively new breed of domestic cat that have been selectively bred to resemble miniature tigers. These cats are known for their unique and striking coat patterns, muscular build, and affectionate personalities. Toygers have rapidly gained popularity in recent years due to their exotic appearance and friendly nature.
The origins of Toyger cats
Toygers were first developed in the United States in the 1980s by breeder Judy Sugden. She began by crossing a Bengal cat with a striped domestic shorthair, and then selectively breeding for specific traits. Sugden’s goal was to create a domestic cat with the appearance of a tiger, but without the wild instincts. Toygers were officially recognized as a breed by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 2007.
Toyger cats’ distinctive markings
Toygers have a distinctive coat pattern that resembles that of a tiger. Their fur is typically brown or orange with black stripes, and their belly and underparts are white. The stripes on their face and legs are usually more pronounced than those on their body. Toygers also have a muscular build, long tail, and large, rounded ears.
Toyger eye color basics
Toygers typically have bright, golden eyes that are round and expressive. The eye color can range from light amber to deep gold, and sometimes even greenish-yellow. The color intensity can vary depending on lighting conditions and the age of the cat.
Do Toyger eye colors vary?
Like all cats, Toygers can have different eye colors. However, the breed standard calls for golden eyes, so this is the most common color. Some Toygers may have slight variations in their eye color, such as greenish or amber tones. However, if a Toyger has blue eyes, this is considered a disqualification from the breed standard.
Factors that affect Toyger eye color
The color of a Toyger’s eyes can be influenced by genetics, age, and health. Cats with a lot of white fur or who carry the white spotting gene may have blue or green eyes. As Toygers age, their eyes may become slightly darker or lighter, and the intensity of their eye color may also change depending on lighting conditions. Additionally, certain health issues such as cataracts or glaucoma can cause changes in eye color.
How to identify Toyger eye color
To identify a Toyger’s eye color, look for bright golden eyes that are round and expressive. The color should be intense and uniform, without any spots or flecks. In some cases, the eye color may appear slightly greenish or amber. If a Toyger has blue eyes, this is not considered a desirable trait for the breed and would indicate that the cat is not a purebred Toyger.
Final thoughts on Toyger eye color
Overall, Toyger eye color is a beautiful and distinctive feature of this unique breed. While golden eyes are the most common, slight variations in color can occur. By understanding the factors that can affect eye color, cat owners can better appreciate the stunning beauty of their Toyger’s eyes. With their tiger-like appearance and affectionate personalities, Toygers are a true joy to own and admire.