Cat breed · Israel
Kanaani cat (Hebrew: חתול כנעני) is an experimental breed of short-haired domestic cat, developed in Israel from selectively bred hybrid foundation stock. They originate from hybrid crossing between domestic cats with African wildcats (Felis catus × Felis lybica), hence why the breed retains certain behavioural traits associated with its relatively recent wild ancestry. Its domestication and breed development process remain ongoing. Anno 2026, the World Cat Federation (WFC) is the only major cat registry that recognises the breed.
The cat breed was named after the land of Canaan, the ancient designation for the region encompassing present-day Israel and neighbouring territories. The breed is developed to resemble the native wild steppe cat of the region.
Behaviour: The breed is described as active, energetic, playful, and affectionate, whilst also displaying a marked degree of independence. Owing to its recent wild ancestry, it retains certain behavioural traits associated with wildcats and is regarded as an excellent hunter.
Appearance: The Kanaani is a medium- to large-sized cat of slender, muscular, and athletic build, combining strength with an overall elegant appearance. The body is elongated and well-muscled. An oriental body type is considered a fault. The legs are long and slender, with oval paws. The tail is long, relatively thick at the base, and tapers towards the tip.
The head is carried on a long, slender neck and forms a broad triangular shape. The skull is flat between the ears, and the cheekbones are prominent without pinch. The slightly arched forehead flows smoothly into a well-defined, straight nose, without stop. The muzzle is slightly flattened, and the chin is firm. The ears are large, broad at the base, and tapering to the tips. They are erect and set wide apart, with the distance between them at least equal to the width of the ear base. Ear tufts are desirable. A thumbprint marking on the back of the ears is characteristic.
The eyes are large, almond-shaped, and set wide apart with a slight oblique slant. Eye colour in adult cats is green, but green to yellow is permitted.
The coat is short, close-lying, and has minimal undercoat. The texture is relatively coarse rather than soft.
History: The German-Israeli artist Doris Pollatschek is considered to be the founder of the Kanaani cat breed in the 1990s. She developed the breed in Israel and later the efforts were continued in Germany. The foundation stock was bred by Pollatschek from a hybrid cross between a rescued African wildcat with a local domestic stray.
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