Welcome to the fascinating world of the Ashera cat, widely regarded as one of the most exclusive and rare domestic cat breeds on the planet. If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a truly unique feline companion that combines exotic beauty with domestic temperament, the Ashera cat might have caught your attention. These stunning creatures stand out not only for their impressive size and distinctive wild appearance but also for their extraordinary price tag, making them the subject of both admiration and controversy in the cat fancy world.
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The Ashera cat represents the pinnacle of exclusive pet ownership, with its striking appearance reminiscent of wild cats yet possessing the companionable nature suitable for home life. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this enigmatic breed—from its contentious origins and distinctive physical characteristics to its temperament, care requirements, and the significant investment required to bring one home.
Whether you’re a serious cat enthusiast researching rare breeds, a potential owner contemplating this substantial investment, or simply curious about these magnificent animals, this article will provide you with detailed insights into what makes the Ashera cat truly one-of-a-kind in the world of domestic felines.
Table of Contents
🌟 What Is an Ashera Cat?
The Ashera cat represents what many consider the ultimate luxury in the feline world. Created by the now-defunct company Lifestyle Pets (previously known as Allerca), the Ashera was marketed as a hypoallergenic “designer cat” breed developed through selective breeding. According to the company’s claims, these cats were a specialized hybrid created from a combination of the African serval, Asian leopard cat, and domestic housecat.
Standing up to 4.5 feet tall on their hind legs and weighing between 20-30 pounds when fully grown, Ashera cats possess an imposing presence rarely seen in domestic cats. Their substantial size, coupled with their exotic spotted coat patterns, creates a striking resemblance to wild felines while supposedly maintaining the temperament suitable for home life.
What truly set the Ashera apart in the pet market was its extraordinary exclusivity. With only a very limited number allegedly produced each year (approximately 5 cats annually, according to company statements) and a price tag ranging from $15,000 to $100,000 for special variants, the Ashera cat quickly became known as the most expensive domestic cat breed in the world.
However, it’s important to note that the Ashera’s story is surrounded by significant controversy, which we’ll explore in depth later in this article. The distinction between marketing claims and feline reality forms a fascinating chapter in modern pet industry history.
🧬 The Controversial Origins of the Ashera Cat
The story of the Ashera cat begins in 2006 when entrepreneur Simon Brodie announced the creation of this new luxury cat breed through his company, Lifestyle Pets. According to the company’s marketing materials, the Ashera represented a groundbreaking achievement in feline breeding—a carefully developed hybrid combining African serval, Asian leopard cat, and domestic cat genetics to create a unique, exotic-looking companion animal.
However, the Ashera’s origin story took a dramatic turn in 2008 when a DNA test conducted by Dr. Leslie Lyons, a feline geneticist at the University of California, revealed something unexpected. The testing suggested that Ashera cats were genetically identical to the already-existing Savannah cat breed—specifically F1 or F2 generation Savannahs, which are crosses between servals and domestic cats.
This revelation led to significant controversy, with allegations that rather than being a novel breed, Asheras were actually Savannah cats being sold at substantially inflated prices. The situation escalated when a Pennsylvania Savannah breeder reportedly recognized cats being transported to the Netherlands as Asheras, claiming they were actually Savannah kittens that had been purchased from his cattery.
These developments cast serious doubt on the authenticity of the Ashera as a distinct breed. While Lifestyle Pets maintained their position that the Ashera was a unique creation, the company eventually ceased operations, leaving many questions unanswered about the true nature of these cats.
The controversy surrounding the Ashera cat serves as a cautionary tale about the exotic pet market and highlights the importance of thorough research before investing in rare or unusual animal breeds. Today, most cat registries and feline genetics experts do not recognize the Ashera as a separate breed from the Savannah cat.
🐾 Physical Characteristics of the Ashera Cat
Despite the controversy surrounding their origins, the cats marketed as Asheras possess undeniably striking physical characteristics that continue to captivate cat enthusiasts worldwide. Understanding these distinctive features helps explain why these felines commanded such extraordinary prices during their brief commercial availability.
Size and Build
The Ashera cat is notable for its impressive size—significantly larger than typical domestic cats:
- Height: Can reach up to 4.5 feet when standing on hind legs
- Weight: Males typically weigh 20-30 pounds; females slightly less
- Body Structure: Long, athletic build with strong musculature
- Stance: Tall with long legs, giving them an elegant, statuesque appearance
This substantial size reflects their alleged wild heritage, creating a commanding presence rarely seen in household pets.
Coat and Coloration
The Ashera’s coat is perhaps its most distinctive feature:
- Pattern: Dramatic spotted pattern reminiscent of wild cats, with dark spots or rosettes against a lighter background
- Texture: Short to medium length, with a luxuriously soft feel
- Special Variants: The company offered “rare” variations, including:
- Royal Ashera: Featuring snow-white fur with dark spots
- Hypoallergenic Ashera: Claimed to produce fewer allergens
The exotic coat patterns contribute significantly to the Ashera’s wild appearance, resembling that of their alleged serval ancestry while maintaining a glossy, domestic quality.
Facial Features
The Ashera’s face combines wild and domestic characteristics:
- Eyes: Large, almond-shaped eyes, typically gold or green
- Ears: Large, upright ears set high on the head
- Muzzle: Slightly elongated compared to typical domestic cats
- Expression: Alert and intelligent, with a distinctive wild appearance
These striking facial features enhance the exotic impression of the breed, contributing to their appeal among those seeking an unusual feline companion.
Physical Development
According to marketing materials from Lifestyle Pets, Ashera cats:
- Reach full physical maturity around 1-1.5 years of age
- Maintain their athletic build throughout their lifespan
- Have an estimated lifespan of 12-15 years, similar to other large domestic cats
The combination of size, wild patterning, and distinctive facial structure creates a cat that undeniably stands out from conventional domestic breeds—regardless of the controversies surrounding their breeding origins.
😺 Temperament and Personality Traits
While the genetic uniqueness of the Ashera cat remains disputed, the temperament of these large, exotic-looking felines is generally consistent with what one would expect from early-generation hybrid cats. According to those who have owned or interacted with cats marketed as Asheras, these animals display a fascinating blend of wild instincts and domesticated behaviors.
General Disposition
Ashera cats were marketed as having:
- Intelligence: Highly intelligent with problem-solving abilities
- Activity Level: Energetic and playful, requiring significant mental and physical stimulation
- Loyalty: Often bonding strongly with their primary caregiver
- Independence: More self-sufficient than many domestic cats, yet still seeking interaction
This combination creates a pet that requires an engaged owner who can appreciate their need for both attention and autonomy.
Social Behaviors
The social nature of these exotic-looking cats tends to be complex:
- They often form strong attachments to their human family members
- They may be cautious or reserved around strangers
- They typically require careful socialization if they are to interact comfortably with other pets
- They benefit from early and consistent handling to maintain their comfort with human interaction
Many owners report that these cats display dog-like behaviors, such as following their owners from room to room and even enjoying games of fetch—traits commonly seen in other hybrid cat breeds as well.
Vocalization and Communication
Communication tendencies of Ashera-type cats often include:
- A diverse vocal range beyond typical domestic cat sounds
- Distinctive “chirping” noises similar to those made by servals
- Clear communication of needs through both vocalizations and body language
- Strong responsiveness to their names and familiar commands
This rich communication palette contributes to the engaging interactive experience of living with these cats.
Exercise and Play Requirements
Due to their athletic build and high energy levels, these cats require:
- Daily Play: Multiple interactive play sessions daily
- Exercise Space: Large areas to run, jump, and climb
- Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys and training activities to engage their intelligence
- Vertical Territory: Tall cat trees and climbing structures to satisfy natural behaviors
Without adequate outlets for their energy and intelligence, these cats may develop problematic behaviors—a consideration potential owners must take seriously.
It’s worth noting that the temperament described here aligns closely with that of F1 and F2 Savannah cats, which is consistent with the DNA findings suggesting Asheras may have been rebranded Savannahs. Regardless of lineage, anyone considering ownership of such an exotic-looking cat should be prepared for a pet that requires significant time, space, and engagement to thrive.
🏠 Living with an Ashera Cat: Housing and Care Requirements
Owning an Ashera cat—or any large hybrid feline with wild ancestry—presents unique challenges that potential owners should carefully consider. These remarkable animals require specialized care to ensure their physical and psychological wellbeing.
Space Requirements
Due to their size and energy levels, these cats need substantially more space than typical domestic breeds:
- Minimum Home Size: A spacious home environment is essential—studio apartments or small homes are generally insufficient
- Vertical Space: Tall cat trees, wall shelves, and climbing structures are necessary to satisfy natural climbing instincts
- Exploration Territory: Safe access to multiple rooms allows for natural roaming behaviors
- Outdoor Options: Secure outdoor enclosures (catios) provide valuable enrichment while maintaining safety
Many owners find that dedicating a significant portion of their living space to cat-friendly features is necessary for these active, athletic felines.
Environmental Enrichment
To prevent boredom and destructive behaviors, these cats require an enriched environment including:
- Climbing Structures: Multiple tall cat trees and shelving systems
- Interactive Toys: Puzzle feeders, electronic motion toys, and hunting simulators
- Scratching Options: Various scratching surfaces of different materials and orientations
- Observation Points: Perches near windows for wildlife viewing
- Water Features: Some of these cats enjoy playing with running water or shallow pools
Creating an engaging environment is not merely optional but essential for the wellbeing of these intelligent, active animals.
Diet and Nutrition
The nutritional needs of large hybrid cats often differ from typical domestic cats:
- High-Quality Protein: Premium commercial cat foods with high meat content
- Raw Options: Some owners opt for carefully balanced raw diets under veterinary guidance
- Feeding Schedule: Multiple smaller meals may better suit their digestive systems
- Water Access: Fresh water sources throughout the home, potentially including moving water fountains
- Treats: Healthy treats used sparingly for training and bonding
Consulting with a veterinarian experienced with hybrid cats is essential to develop an appropriate nutritional plan.
Health Considerations
Owners should be prepared for specialized veterinary care, including:
- Finding Knowledgeable Veterinarians: Not all vets have experience with hybrid cats
- Preventative Care: Regular check-ups are crucial, as these cats may mask symptoms
- Vaccinations: Following appropriate vaccination protocols for hybrid cats
- Common Health Issues: Awareness of potential genetic conditions related to their breeding
- Emergency Preparedness: Planning for emergency care, as some facilities may be reluctant to treat exotic-appearing cats
The substantial investment in acquiring such a cat should be matched by commitment to ongoing healthcare expenses throughout their lifetime.
Legal Considerations
Before pursuing ownership, potential buyers must thoroughly research:
- Local Regulations: Many jurisdictions restrict ownership of hybrid cats, particularly early generations
- HOA Rules: Housing associations often have specific pet policies
- Insurance Implications: Home insurance policies may be affected by exotic pet ownership
- Travel Restrictions: Finding care during travel can be challenging for exotic-appearing cats
Failure to address legal considerations can lead to heartbreaking situations where owners must surrender beloved pets due to regulatory issues.
Living successfully with an Ashera-type cat requires significant commitment to providing the specialized environment and care these unique animals need. The responsibility extends far beyond the initial purchase price, demanding ongoing investment of time, space, and resources throughout the cat’s life.
💰 The Cost of Owning an Ashera Cat
The Ashera cat gained notoriety not just for its striking appearance but also for its extraordinary price tag, making it accessible only to the most affluent pet enthusiasts. Understanding the full financial commitment involved provides important context for anyone contemplating ownership of similar exotic cat breeds.
Purchase Price
During the brief period when Lifestyle Pets marketed Ashera cats, their pricing structure was unprecedented in the domestic cat market:
- Standard Ashera: Approximately $22,000-$28,000
- Hypoallergenic Ashera: Around $37,000
- Royal Ashera: Up to $125,000 for rare color variants
These figures made the Ashera the most expensive commercially available cat breed in history. While the company is no longer in operation, similar early-generation hybrid cats from reputable breeders still command premium prices, typically ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 depending on generation and characteristics.
Ongoing Care Expenses
Beyond the initial purchase, owners should budget for significant recurring costs:
Nutrition
- Premium Food: $100-200 monthly for high-quality commercial or raw diets
- Supplements: $30-50 monthly for any needed nutritional supplements
Environmental Needs
- Cat Trees: $300-1,000 for sturdy structures tall enough for large cats
- Enrichment: $100-200 monthly for toys, replacements, and new stimulation
- Home Modifications: Potentially thousands for cat-proofing and creating appropriate spaces
Medical Care
- Routine Veterinary Care: $500-1,000 annually for check-ups and preventative care
- Specialized Veterinary Expertise: Often higher fees for vets experienced with exotic hybrids
- Emergency Fund: Recommended $3,000-5,000 set aside for potential medical emergencies
Services
- Insurance: $50-100 monthly for pet insurance (if available for hybrid cats)
- Professional Care: $30-50 daily for specialized cat-sitting during travel
- Training/Behavioral Consultation: $100-200 per session if needed
Lifetime Investment
Considering their lifespan of 12-15 years, owners should anticipate a total lifetime cost potentially exceeding $100,000 when combining purchase price with ongoing care expenses. This substantial financial commitment represents one of the most significant investments in companion animal ownership.
Value Considerations
For prospective owners considering such an investment, several factors warrant consideration:
- Authenticity Concerns: Given the controversy surrounding the Ashera’s origins, buyers should approach claims of “authentic Ashera cats” with caution
- Ethical Considerations: Supporting transparent breeding practices through established, reputable breeders
- Alternative Options: Exploring other hybrid breeds like Savannahs or Bengals that may offer similar aesthetics at lower price points
- Rescue Possibilities: Occasionally, hybrid cats become available through rescue organizations specializing in exotic animals
The exceptional cost of these cats represents not merely a luxury purchase but a commitment to providing appropriate lifelong care for a highly specialized animal with complex needs.
🔍 Ashera Cat vs. Similar Breeds: How to Tell the Difference
Given the controversy surrounding the Ashera cat’s origins and its close resemblance to other exotic-looking breeds, understanding the distinguishing characteristics and similarities becomes particularly important for potential owners and cat enthusiasts. This comparison helps clarify the relationship between Asheras and similar breeds in the feline world.
Ashera Cat vs. Savannah Cat
The most critical comparison, given the DNA controversy:
Similarities:
- Spotted coat patterns
- Large size and athletic build
- Wild appearance with serval influence
- High energy levels and intelligence
Claimed Differences (according to original Ashera marketing):
- Asheras were marketed as having more consistent temperaments
- Supposedly more predictable adult size and appearance
- Claimed to have been developed with specific genetic traits
- Higher exclusivity with limited annual production
Expert Assessment: DNA testing suggested Asheras were genetically identical to F1/F2 Savannah cats, indicating they may have been the same breed marketed under a different name and price point.
Ashera Cat vs. Bengal Cat
Bengals represent another popular hybrid breed with wild ancestry:
Similarities:
- Exotic appearance with distinctive patterning
- Above-average size compared to domestic cats
- High intelligence and energy levels
- Need for significant environmental enrichment
Differences:
- Bengals derive from Asian Leopard Cat ancestry (vs. serval)
- Typically smaller than Asheras/Savannahs (10-15 pounds)
- More generations removed from wild ancestors in most cases
- More widely available and established breed recognition
- Lower price point ($1,500-$5,000 for most quality Bengals)
Ashera Cat vs. Safari Cat
A less common hybrid that shares some characteristics:
Similarities:
- Exotic appearance with spotted patterns
- Larger than typical domestic cats
- High activity levels and intelligence
Differences:
- Safari cats are Geoffroy’s cat hybrids rather than serval hybrids
- Different body structure and facial features
- Less commonly available
- Typically smaller than Asheras/Savannahs
Physical Identification Markers
For those attempting to distinguish between these similar breeds:
Savannah Markers:
- Prominent ears with rounded tips
- Long legs with body length proportionally shorter
- Tear-drop or oval spots
- Often display “ocelli” (dark thumb prints) on the backs of ears
Bengal Markers:
- Rosette patterns rather than simple spots
- More muscular, compact build
- Smaller ears relative to head size
- Distinctive head shape with prominent whisker pads
What Was Marketed as Ashera:
- According to company materials, should display a blend of characteristics
- Particularly large size (20-30 pounds)
- Distinctive spot patterns claimed to be more uniform than Savannahs
- Marketing emphasized more consistent temperament traits
Making an Informed Decision
For potential owners interested in exotic-looking cats similar to what was marketed as the Ashera:
- Research Established Breeds: Consider Savannah or Bengal cats from reputable breeders
- Verify Generation: Early generations (F1-F3) will display more wild characteristics
- Check Authentication: Legitimate breeders provide documentation of lineage
- Meet Adult Cats: Seeing mature examples helps understand what to expect
- Consider Legal Factors: Research local regulations regarding hybrid cat ownership
Understanding these distinctions helps potential owners make informed decisions while navigating the complex world of exotic hybrid cats, ensuring both regulatory compliance and appropriate expectations regarding care requirements.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ashera Cats
Are Ashera cats real or fake?
The authenticity of Ashera cats as a distinct breed is highly contested. DNA testing conducted in 2008 suggested that cats marketed as Asheras were genetically identical to Savannah cats (specifically F1 or F2 generation Savannahs). While the cats themselves are certainly real exotic-looking felines, the claim that they represented a unique breed developed by Lifestyle Pets has been widely disputed by feline genetics experts. Most cat registries do not recognize the Ashera as a separate breed from the Savannah.
How much does an Ashera cat cost?
During their commercial availability through Lifestyle Pets (approximately 2006-2008), Ashera cats were marketed at prices ranging from $22,000 to $28,000 for standard varieties, approximately $37,000 for hypoallergenic versions, and up to $125,000 for the rare “Royal Ashera” variant. Today, since the company no longer exists, cats cannot be purchased as authentic Asheras. Similar early-generation Savannah cats typically cost between $5,000 and $20,000, depending on generation and quality.
Are Ashera cats dangerous?
Cats marketed as Asheras, like other early-generation hybrid cats with wild ancestry, are not typically dangerous in the sense of being aggressive, but they do require experienced handling and appropriate environments. Their large size, strength, and high energy levels mean they can unintentionally cause injury during play or if stressed. They’re generally not recommended for households with very young children or frail individuals, and they require owners who understand their specialized needs and behaviors.
Are Ashera cats legal to own?
Legality varies significantly by location. Many states, counties, and municipalities have restrictions on hybrid cats, particularly early generations with close wild ancestry. Some areas prohibit them entirely, while others require special permits. Potential owners must thoroughly research local regulations before pursuing ownership of any exotic hybrid cat. Violation of these regulations can result in forced surrender of the animal and potential fines.
How big do Ashera cats get?
According to marketing materials from Lifestyle Pets, Ashera cats could reach up to 4.5 feet tall when standing on their hind legs and weigh between 20-30 pounds when fully grown. This size is consistent with what would be expected from early-generation Savannah cats, particularly F1 or F2 males, which matches the genetic testing results that suggested Asheras were actually Savannahs.
Are Ashera cats hypoallergenic?
Lifestyle Pets marketed a “hypoallergenic” variant of the Ashera cat, claiming it produced fewer allergens. However, truly hypoallergenic cats are extremely rare, and most allergists are skeptical of such claims. Cat allergies are primarily triggered by the Fel d 1 protein found in saliva and skin secretions, which all cats produce to some degree. While individual cats may produce varying levels of allergens, no breed is universally safe for all allergy sufferers.
Can Ashera cats be kept as indoor pets?
Large hybrid cats with wild ancestry can be kept indoors, but they require specially adapted environments. This includes substantial space, tall climbing structures, abundant enrichment opportunities, and secure areas that prevent escape. Many owners find that creating outdoor enclosures (catios) provides valuable additional stimulation while maintaining safety. Keeping such active, large cats in typical apartments or small homes without appropriate modifications is generally not recommended for the welfare of the animal.
🌈 Conclusion: The Legacy of the Ashera Cat
The Ashera cat represents one of the most fascinating chapters in modern domestic cat history, blending extraordinary marketing, controversial breeding claims, and the genuine appeal of exotic-looking feline companions. While the breed’s distinctiveness from Savannah cats remains disputed, the Ashera phenomenon has left an indelible mark on the world of luxury pets and continues to captivate the imagination of cat enthusiasts worldwide.
For those enchanted by the striking appearance of what was marketed as the Ashera cat, similar experiences may be found through reputable Savannah cat breeders, offering comparable beauty and temperament at more moderate (though still premium) price points. The allure of owning a cat with wild heritage and exceptional appearance continues to drive interest in various hybrid breeds that combine domestic convenience with exotic aesthetics.
The controversy surrounding the Ashera serves as an important reminder of the need for due diligence when considering exotic pet ownership. Prospective owners should prioritize working with transparent, ethical breeders who provide clear documentation of lineage and health testing, and who demonstrate genuine concern for animal welfare above profit motives.
Regardless of their exact genetic makeup, these magnificent cats—whether called Asheras or Savannahs—require specialized care, significant financial investment, and committed owners prepared to meet their unique needs. For those with the resources, knowledge, and appropriate living situations, these extraordinary felines can offer a rewarding companionship experience unlike any other in the domestic cat world.
The legacy of the Ashera cat ultimately transcends questions of branding and marketing to remind us of the enduring human fascination with animals that bridge the worlds of wild and domestic—creatures that bring a touch of the exotic into our homes while forming the loving bonds characteristic of companion animals.