Own One of the World's Rarest Living Treasures
The Kanaani – documented by Official World Records as the rarest officially registered cat breed on Earth, as reported by Official World Records and NY Post. Fewer than a handful of verified breeders exist globally. Secure your place on our waiting list today.
The Kanaani: Living History You Can Welcome Home
The Kanaani is not merely a pet — it is a living connection to the ancient land of Canaan. Originating in Israel in the 1990s, this extraordinary breed carries the bloodline of the African wildcat (Felis lybica), the same species that roamed the deserts of the Negev and Galilee since biblical times. For an independent overview of the breed's history and standard, see Kanaani on Wikipedia (UK). Recognized as one of the rarest documented domestic cat breeds in the world, the Kanaani represents a rare convergence of origins that are usually separated by time. Each kitten is a piece of living heritage, a companion unlike any other, and an opportunity to participate in the preservation of a breed on the very edge of existence.
Officially Certified as the World's Rarest Cat Breed
Official World Records certifies that the Kanaani is the world's rarest officially registered cat breed, with Rabbi Mikhail Salita of Brooklyn, New York, recognized as the sole officially registered breeder and custodian responsible for its documented revival, view the public record entry. Verified documentation in 2025 confirmed its status as one of the rarest cat breeds globally.
From Jerusalem with Compassion: The True Origin Story
Unlike most modern breeds, the Kanaani is not the product of commercial breeders or genetic manipulation — it was born from an act of mercy. On the outskirts of Jerusalem, German-Israeli artist Doris Pollatschek (also known as Dorothea Polaczek), a Holocaust survivor, cared for rescued street cats. Through a hybrid cross between a rescued African wildcat and a local domestic stray, the foundation stock of the Kanaani breed was developed.
The breed's name derives from the land of Canaan, the ancient designation for the region encompassing present-day Israel and its neighbouring territories. The Kanaani was developed to resemble the native wild steppe cat of that historic region.
Our breeding programme operates under the custodianship of Rabbi Mikhail Salita (Brooklyn, New York, USA) — recognised by Official World Records as the sole officially registered breeder and custodian of the Kanaani's documented revival. Working in partnership with Lyudmila Vlasova (custodian and preservation advocate of the Kanaani breed in Israel), our programme maintains the highest ethical standards for this endangered lineage. Today, the Kanaani is supported by a growing circle of individuals working across Israel, Ukraine, the United States, and the United Kingdom. International media have described Rabbi Mikhail Salita's work as a preservation mission — including NY Post: "Modern-day Noah hoping to save rare cat from extinction".
Physical Excellence: The Wild Elegance of the Kanaani
Males typically weigh 8–12 lbs, with females slightly smaller at 6–10 lbs. Adult Kanaani can weigh between 5–9 kg.
The Perfect Balance: Wild Heart, Gentle Soul
Described as agile, playful, athletic, and highly intelligent.
Responsible Ownership: What to Expect
- Health considerations: As a very young breed (recognized 2000/2008), there are no reliable data on hereditary diseases as of 2024. Regular veterinary check-ups should be performed to identify any potential issues early.
- Diet: Requires a diet rich in high-quality protein to support muscles and high energy levels, with lean meat being ideal.
- Grooming: Low maintenance — short, close-lying coat with minimal undercoat.
- Veterinary care: Annual check-ups recommended; routine vaccinations and parasite prevention.
⚠️ Independence: While affectionate, this breed values its own independence and has a strong character.
⚠️ Not for Everyone: May not be the best cat for a household with very small children due to its wild-ancestry personality traits.
⚠️ Commitment to Preservation: Owning a Kanaani means joining a global community dedicated to saving this breed from extinction — a moral and spiritual obligation embraced by our custodian, described as a "modern-day Noah."
Investment in Rarity: Pricing & What's Included
✓ TICA Foundation Registry (Experimental New Breed) documentation
✓ WCF-recognized pedigree
✓ Complete veterinary health record and vaccinations
✓ Spay/neuter agreement (for pet-quality placements)
✓ Microchipping
✓ Lifetime breeder support
✓ Kanaani care guide and preservation information
- Waiting lists are long; preparation for a wait is essential if you're set on acquiring a Kanaani
- Kittens often must be imported if you live outside Israel or the US
- Our programme requires a rigorous application process to ensure each kitten goes to an appropriate home
Why Choose Our Kanaani Programme?
The Rarest Cat on Earth Awaits