A short-legged cat bred to resemble the wild African genet — a long, low body wrapped in bold spots and contrasting markings, paired with a lively, almost dog-like personality.
- Origin
- United States
- Category
- shorthair
- Lifespan
- 12–16 yrs
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 2–4 kg
- Coat
- Short, sleek, spotted
- Colours
- Spotted and marbled tabby patterns
😺 Temperament
🏡 Best suited to
📊 Personality ratings
📜 History & origin
The Genetta is a very new designer breed, begun in 2006 by American breeder Shannon Kiley of Pawstruck Cattery, with the goal of creating a domestic cat that mimics the appearance of the genet, a slender spotted carnivore of Africa and Europe. To achieve the short legs and spotted coat, the founding crosses drew on the Munchkin, Bengal and Savannah, along with domestic shorthairs. The breed is still experimental and not yet widely recognised, but it has attracted attention for its striking exotic look.
🧼 Care & grooming
The short, sleek coat needs little more than an occasional brush and is very low-maintenance. Genettas are highly active, intelligent and inquisitive, and they need plenty of play, climbing opportunities and mental stimulation to stay content — puzzle feeders and interactive toys suit them well. Despite their short legs they remain surprisingly agile.
🩺 Health notes
Because the Genetta is built on the Munchkin dwarfism gene, responsible breeders avoid pairing two short-legged cats and monitor for the skeletal concerns associated with dwarf breeds. Its Bengal and Savannah heritage is generally robust, but as a young breed its long-term health profile is still being established, so routine veterinary care is essential.