Ashera Cat: The Controversial Designer Breed – A Comprehensive Guide
Imagine owning a cat that looks like a miniature leopard, towers over your average feline companion, and perhaps even displays behaviors reminiscent of a canine. Meet the Ashera cat, the so-called ultimate designer breed. Touted as a hybrid of the Asian Leopard Cat, the African Serval, and a domestic cat, the Ashera cat captivated the public imagination with its exotic appearance and hefty price tag. However, beneath the shimmering allure of this supposed feline marvel lies a web of controversy, accusations of fraud, and a stark reminder of the ethical considerations surrounding designer breeds.
This article aims to delve into the captivating yet contentious history of the Ashera cat. We will explore its purported origins, dissect its advertised characteristics, unravel the controversy surrounding its true identity, and address the practicalities of caring for such an animal. Furthermore, we will analyze the ethical implications of designer breeds and offer guidance to those seeking a unique feline companion.
The Purported Story of Creation
The tale of the Ashera cat begins with Lifestyle Pets, a company that promised a revolutionary breed, combining the exotic beauty of wild cats with the affectionate temperament of domestic felines. Lifestyle Pets claimed to have achieved this through a complex and secretive breeding process, purportedly crossing the Asian Leopard Cat, the African Serval, and a domestic cat. This process, shrouded in proprietary secrecy, was the cornerstone of the Ashera cat’s mystique and inflated value.
Lifestyle Pets presented various Ashera cat varieties to the public, each with a different appearance and price point. The standard Ashera boasted the classic leopard-like spots, while the hypoallergenic Ashera was marketed as a boon for allergy sufferers. The snow Ashera featured a creamy white coat with subtle markings, and the royal Ashera, the most exclusive variety, sported a striking combination of colors and patterns.
The original marketing strategy positioned the Ashera cat as a status symbol, an exclusive pet for the discerning owner. With prices ranging from tens of thousands of dollars, the Ashera cat was undeniably positioned as a luxury item. The air of exclusivity, coupled with the promise of a truly unique companion, fueled demand and captivated a global audience.
Appearance and Characteristics (Based on Claims and Observations)
The Ashera cat was advertised as a majestic creature, significantly larger than your average house cat. Reaching weights of up to thirty pounds, these felines possessed a powerful, athletic build. Their most striking feature was undoubtedly their coat, adorned with leopard-like spots and patterns that evoked the beauty of their wild ancestors. Color variations ranged from golden browns to creamy whites, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences.
Beyond their physical attributes, the Ashera cat was marketed as possessing a remarkably gentle and intelligent temperament. Lifestyle Pets claimed that these cats exhibited dog-like loyalty, were highly trainable, and thrived in family environments. They were portrayed as affectionate companions, eager to please and suitable for owners with children and other pets.
The predicted lifespan of the Ashera cat was estimated to be similar to other large domestic cat breeds, ranging from ten to fifteen years with proper care. This longevity, combined with their purported docile nature, further added to their appeal.
The Controversy and Debunking of the Ashera Cat
The story of the Ashera cat took a dramatic turn when genetic testing revealed a shocking truth: the Ashera cat was not a novel hybrid breed but rather a Savannah cat, a well-established breed resulting from the cross between a Serval and a domestic cat. This revelation shattered the illusion of exclusivity and exposed the alleged fraudulent practices of Lifestyle Pets.
Chris Shirk, a Savannah cat breeder, played a pivotal role in exposing the Ashera cat hoax. Shirk claimed that Lifestyle Pets had purchased Savannah cats from him, subsequently rebranding them as Ashera cats and selling them at exorbitant prices. Genetic testing corroborated Shirk’s claims, confirming that the Ashera cats tested were indeed Savannah cats.
The exposure of this alleged fraudulent scheme led to numerous lawsuits and customer complaints. Disgruntled owners, who had paid vast sums of money for a “unique” breed, felt deceived and demanded accountability. The controversy surrounding the Ashera cat ultimately led to the closure of Lifestyle Pets, leaving a trail of unanswered questions and disillusioned customers.
Caring for What May Be a Savannah Cat or Another Large Breed
While the Ashera cat’s true identity remains shrouded in controversy, understanding the care requirements for a large, potentially hybrid feline is crucial. Since genetic testing has linked the Ashera cat to the Savannah cat, we will focus on the care needs of Savannah cats. However, these guidelines can also be applied to other large domestic breeds, such as Maine Coons or Norwegian Forest Cats.
A high-quality, protein-rich diet is essential for maintaining the health and vitality of these large felines. Choose a commercial cat food formulated for large breeds or consult with a veterinarian to create a customized feeding plan.
Adequate exercise and mental stimulation are vital for preventing boredom and destructive behaviors. Provide plenty of space for running and playing, invest in climbing structures and interactive toys, and engage in regular play sessions.
Grooming needs will vary depending on the specific coat type, but regular brushing is generally recommended to minimize shedding and prevent matting. Routine nail trimming and ear cleaning are also essential aspects of responsible cat ownership.
Be mindful of potential health problems associated with large cat breeds, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or hip dysplasia. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early detection and treatment of any health issues. If you have a cat that was sold as an Ashera it is best to consult a vet with experience in large or hybrid breeds.
Ethical Considerations Surrounding Designer Breeds
The Ashera cat saga highlights the ethical complexities surrounding designer breeds. The breeding of exotic cats with domestic cats raises concerns about animal welfare, genetic health, and conservation efforts.
The pursuit of novelty and profit can sometimes overshadow the well-being of the animals involved. Hybrid breeds may be prone to health problems and behavioral issues due to genetic incompatibilities. The demand for exotic pets can also fuel the illegal wildlife trade, posing a threat to endangered species.
The Ashera cat controversy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership. Prospective pet owners should conduct thorough research, choose reputable breeders, and prioritize the well-being of the animals above all else.
Alternatives and Similar Breeds to the Ashera Cat
For those captivated by the Ashera cat’s exotic appearance, several alternative breeds offer a similar aesthetic without the ethical baggage and inflated price tag.
The Savannah cat, the most likely “true identity” of the Ashera, provides a striking resemblance with its spotted coat and athletic build. Savannah cats are intelligent, active, and require experienced owners who can provide ample enrichment and stimulation.
Bengal cats are another popular choice, boasting a wild appearance with their leopard-like spots and shimmering coats. Bengal cats are energetic and playful, requiring plenty of attention and exercise.
Other large domestic breeds, such as Maine Coons, Norwegian Forest Cats, and Ragdolls, offer a combination of size, beauty, and affectionate temperaments. These breeds are well-established, generally healthy, and readily available from reputable breeders.
Selecting a long-established breed gives you the advantage of a more predictable temperament and fewer health concerns due to generations of careful breeding within domestic cat lines.
Conclusion: A Cautionary Tale
The story of the Ashera cat is a cautionary tale, a reminder of the potential pitfalls of designer breeds and the importance of responsible pet ownership. The Ashera cat was likely nothing more than a rebranded Savannah, sold at an exorbitant price under false pretenses.
Prospective pet owners should be wary of extravagant claims and inflated prices, especially when it comes to designer breeds. Prioritize ethical breeding practices, animal welfare, and informed decision-making.
Ultimately, the true value of a companion animal lies not in its rarity or expense but in the love, companionship, and joy it brings to our lives. By choosing responsibly and prioritizing the well-being of animals, we can create a more humane and ethical world for all.
