NEW YORK (Reuters Life!) - For cat lovers with exotic tastes and
deep pockets a California biotech company has created a hybrid
breed that resembles a mini leopard and sells for $22,000.
The Ashera is a mix between an African Serval, an Asian Leopard and
a domesticated cat that can weigh up to 30 pounds . A
hypoallergenic version is also available with a price tag starting
at $28,000.
"It's exotic, but under the skin it's a domestic house cat, very
easy to take care of and extremely friendly," said Simon Brodie,
the founder of Lifestyle Pets that developed the breed.
"Everybody has thought at one time, wouldn't it be great to have a
leopard at home, or a tiger. Obviously you can't and this is about
the nearest thing to it," he added in an interview
The Ashera is not as aloof as some cats, is very vocal and can open
doors and walk on a leash, according to the company.
"They're more dog-like than anything," Brodie said.
Many customers are first-time cat owners or dog lovers who are
attracted to the canine-qualities and the relatively
self-sufficient nature of cats. Most of the 100 Ashera cats sold
this year by the company have been to customers in Russia and
China.
The Ashera is just one of a growing breed of designer cats. Other
hybrid varieties include the Toyger, which is a cross of a Bengal
and a domestic cat, the Chausie, a mix of jungle and domestic cats,
and the Savannah, which resulted from breeding an African Serval
and a house cat.
Brodie admitted there were similarities between the Savannah and
Ashera but said consistency in size and temperament were key
differentiating factors.
"Anybody can throw the ingredients in, but unless you know what
ingredients are the best ingredients in the best percentages,
you're not going to produce the same final product," he
explained.
The Savannah is classified as an African Serval bred with any
domestic cat, according to the International Cat Association. The
Ashera's domestic cat component is a specific one that Brodie said
won't be revealed.
"Is it a status symbol? I guess to an extent it is. But so are
million dollar racehorses," said Brodie.
