The idea that "miniature tigers" are now able to grace our homes presents a strong appeal to many cat lovers. The Toyger, a cross between a Bengal cat and a domestic striped tabby, brings a little bit of the jungle to us. Spotted and striped, they emulate their larger cousins. Who would not immediately fall in love with these gorgeous cats? They really are dynamic and breathtaking in appearance. Although this little fellow looks a little feisty, the disposition of the Toyger is described as sweet and gentle.

Founded by Judy Sugden, the owner of the EEYAAS Cattery in the United States, this relatively new breed has been in development since the 1980s. Here's video of Judy with her Toygers. (Click on the little paw to read more.)

Let's talk a little bit about the background of the Bengal cat (right), a major contributor to the gene pool of the Toyger. The Bengal cat is derived from carefully selective breeding between the Asian leopard cat and domestic tabby cats which carry the desired coat pattern. Just like their Toyger relatives, the Bengal temperament is described as sweet and loving, making them excellent house pets. Yet, they too carry those "wild" genes.

Although several breed associations recognize the Bengal, the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) does not, due to its philosophy which discourages the cross-breeding of domestic cats with non-domesticated ones. Additionally, the CFA will not permit registration of any offspring that carry these genes -- which would include the Toyger.

The big cats -- lions, tigers and panthers -- excite and delight us, especially if we are able to see them in somewhat of a natural environment. Many of the big cats are either endangered or verging on becoming extinct. It truly would be a great loss if these great cats no longer existed.

Perhaps the Toyger will appeal to those of us who are concerned about the future disappearance of the big cats. Perhaps the little bit of "wild" in them will stir our hearts and may also remind us that we need to find a way to protect their big cousins. Yet only those of us who can afford the price tag -- upwards of $4,000.00 -- could have the luxury of having one of these beauties grace our homes.

I think the Toyger is a stunningly attractive cat. At the same time, my own personal feeling is that the cats that we bring into our homes as pets, whether purebred and pedigreed or mixed without a known ancestry, make better and safer companions. Wild cats should remain wild. They have a grace and a history that is theirs. We have spent years breeding incredibly beautiful domestic cats that are truly domestic.

I would rather spend my dollars on helping to protect the big cats from extinction. Some things just, in my opinion, need not be relegated to a "designer" category. What do you think?