# Are They Real or Just a Myth?

Cat-rabbit hybrids, also known as “cabbits,” have long been a topic of fascination among animal enthusiasts. These purported creatures are said to be the result of breeding between cats and rabbits, and their existence has been the subject of much debate. In this article, we’ll delve into the science behind cat-rabbit hybrids and try to answer the question: are they real or just a myth?

# The Origins of the Cabbit Myth

The idea of a cat-rabbit hybrid has been around for centuries. In fact, ancient Chinese and Japanese folklore mention creatures called “cat-rabbits” that possessed the body of a rabbit and the face of a cat. However, it wasn’t until the advent of the internet that the rabbit myth gained widespread attention.

In the early 2000s, images and videos of alleged cat-rabbit hybrids started to circulate online, fueling speculation about their existence. These images typically depicted animals with a mix of cat and rabbit-like features, such as long ears, fluffy tails, and fur patterns that resembled both species.

# The Science of Hybridization

While the idea of cat-rabbit hybrids may be appealing to some, the science behind such a crossbreed is highly improbable. Cats and rabbits belong to different biological families, and their genetic makeup is vastly different.

Hybridization occurs when two species that are closely related breed and produce offspring. This can happen naturally or through human intervention, such as in the case of mules (the offspring of a horse and a donkey).

However, cats and rabbits are so distantly related that it’s highly unlikely they could successfully mate and produce offspring. Even if a cat and rabbit were to mate, their genetic differences would likely result in sterile offspring.

Read More: Can cats cross-breed with other animals?

# The Role of Photoshop

So, if cat-rabbit hybrids are unlikely to exist in nature, what about the images and videos circulating online? Many experts believe that these are the result of clever photo editing.

With modern technology, it’s relatively easy to manipulate images and create convincing fakes. By combining images of cats and rabbits and adjusting colors and shapes, it’s possible to create a believable cabbit.

While the idea of a cat-rabbit hybrid is undoubtedly intriguing, scientific evidence suggests that they are likely just a myth. Although some images and videos may appear to show cabbits, these are likely the result of clever photo editing rather than actual hybridization.

As with many things on the internet, it’s essential to approach claims about cat-rabbit hybrids with a healthy dose of skepticism. While the concept may make for great entertainment, it’s important not to take it too seriously.

# Cabbit Videos

• A gatonejo (Spanish for cabbit) in Puerto Rico.

 

• A Venezuelan gatonejo (when this animal is on its owner’s shoulder and the front portion of its body is out of sight, note how similar it’s rear legs and hindquarters are to those of a rabbit).

• Another buck rabbit mating with a female cat.