Meow-Cats

Unveiling the Enchanting Asian Cat: A Journey Through History, Traits, and Facts

The Origin and History of the Asian Cat

The Asian cat, also known as the Asian Shorthair, has its roots in the United Kingdom. The breed’s development began in the 1980s, spearheaded by Baroness Miranda von Kirchberg. The objective was to create a breed that combined the Burmese cat’s body structure with a wider variety of colors and patterns. By 1989, the breed gained recognition from the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) in the UK. The Asian cat is a descendant of the Burmese and other domestic cats, specifically bred to expand the color and pattern palette available in the Burmese lineage.

The Asian Group: A Spectrum of Colors and Patterns

The Asian cat group, in appearance, is nearly identical to the Burmese breed but stands out due to its broader range of colors and patterns. Unlike the Burmese, the Asian cats come in various hues and patterns, including the semi-longhaired Tiffanies. Here’s a closer look at the types within the Asian group:

Asian Self

Description: These cats are characterized by a uniform solid color throughout their coat, with tortoiseshell variations also included.

Sub-Type: Bombay
Color: Self/solid black
Features: The Bombay cat, a sub-type of the Asian Self, has a sleek black coat that is shiny and dense.

Bombay Cat Details: The solid black Bombay under the Asian Self-category has a slightly different origin but is also developed in the UK. In the early 1980s, kittens resulting from mismatings of European Burmese with black domestic short-haired cats were developed into the British-type Bombay. Additionally, there is an American-type Bombay developed in the United States by crossbreeding sable American Burmese and black American Shorthair cats. American Bombays have a sleek, panther-like black coat and bright copper-golden eyes. British-type Bombays prefer golden eyes, but yellow through green is acceptable, with a preference for greater depth of color.

Asian Shaded or Burmilla

Description: These cats have a striking appearance with a silver or golden base color and darker shading on top, creating a tipped or shaded effect.

Colors: Silver or golden shaded and tipped
Features: The Burmilla, a popular type in this category, exhibits a shimmering, ethereal look due to its unique color distribution.

Asian Shaded Details: The Asian Shaded (also known as the Burmilla) has two colors at the tip and at the root of their fur.

Asian Smoke

Description: Smoke-patterned cats have a solid color overlay with a lighter undercoat, giving a smoky, shimmering effect.

Color: Smoke
Features: This pattern creates a striking contrast between the topcoat and the lighter undercoat, adding depth to the cat’s appearance.

Asian Smoke Details: The Asian Smoke is a non-agouti cat with a white undercoat that is not always noticeable. When the Asian was originally being developed, Burmillas were bred with Burmese. These cats were initially called ‘Burmoire’ due to the moire-like effect of their coats—this look is now considered undesirable for the Asian Smoke.

Asian Tabby

Description: These cats come in various tabby patterns, such as classic, mackerel, and spotted tabbies.

Colors: Diverse tabby patterns
Features: The Asian Tabby showcases intricate patterns that can range from bold stripes to delicate spots, making each cat unique.

Asian Tabby Details: The Asian Tabby is an Asian cat with tabby markings. Unlike regular tabbies, their coat has a reduced melanin concentration, resulting in lighter tabby markings. Asian Tabbies come in all four traditional tabby markings and most tabby colorings.

Tiffanie or Asian (Semi-)Longhair

Description: The Tiffanie is the semi-longhaired variety within the Asian group, offering a luxurious, silky coat that adds elegance to its appearance.

Features: The fur is longer and softer compared to other Asian varieties, often requiring more grooming but providing a beautiful, flowing look.

Tiffanie Details: The Tiffanie (unrelated to the Chantilly-Tiffany) is an Asian cat with medium to long-length hair.

Physical Appearance: Elegance in Every Detail

The Asian cat is a medium-sized feline with a muscular yet graceful build. They typically weigh between 8 to 15 pounds. Their head is slightly rounded with a short, blunt muzzle, and large, expressive eyes that can be gold, green, or hazel, depending on the coat color. The ears are medium to large, set well apart, and slightly rounded at the tips.

The coat of the Asian Shorthair is short, fine, and close-lying, while the Asian Longhair sports a semi-long, silky coat. Colors and patterns are diverse, including solid, tabby, smoke, and shaded varieties, with common colors being black, blue, chocolate, and lilac.

Personality: The Playful and Affectionate Companion

Asian cats are known for their outgoing and affectionate nature. They are highly social and enjoy human companionship, often following their owners around the house. These cats are playful, intelligent, and curious, making them excellent pets for families and individuals alike. Compared to other breeds, Asians are more interactive and less aloof than typical domestic shorthairs, yet not as demanding as some Siamese or Burmese cats.

Lifespan: A Long and Healthy Life

The Asian cat is a relatively healthy breed with a lifespan ranging from 12 to 18 years, although some individuals can live into their early 20s with proper care. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and a stimulating environment contribute to their longevity.

Interesting Facts About the Asian Cat

Unique Breeding Goals: The Asian cat was specifically bred to offer the Burmese’s appealing physique in a wider array of colors and patterns.
Versatile Coat Patterns: This breed’s coat patterns can range from solid colors to intricate tabby markings and even smoke or shaded effects.
Social Butterflies: Asian cats thrive on interaction and often form strong bonds with their human families, making them excellent companions.
Energetic and Playful: Their high energy levels and playful nature make them suitable for active households with plenty of toys and engagement opportunities.

The Asian cat, with its rich history, diverse appearance, and affectionate personality, continues to captivate cat enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you’re drawn to their striking looks or their engaging companionship, the Asian cat is a breed that brings joy and elegance to any home.

The Majestic British Longhair: A Regal Companion

The Grand Tapestry of History: From Ancient Roots to Global Recognition

The British Longhair Cat Breed, known for its regal bearing and luxurious coat, shares a rich history with the British Shorthair. The breed’s origins trace back to cats that accompanied the Romans during their invasion of Great Britain. Likely originating from Egypt, these cats formed the foundation for one of the first recognized cat breeds.

An Ancient Lineage: The British Shorthair, over centuries, has preserved its distinctive features. Breeders recognized the potential for refinement and introduced crosses with the Persian between 1914 and 1918. This deliberate introduction of the longhair gene marked a crucial phase in the development of the British Longhair.

From Shorthair to Longhair: The infusion of Persian genetics introduced the coveted longhair trait. This transformative period set the stage for the emergence of the British Longhair as a distinct and elegant feline companion.

Preserving Heritage: The Roots of the British Shorthair and the Emergence of the British Longhair

The saga of the British Shorthair unfolds with the arrival of cats from Egypt who accompanied the Romans during their invasion of Great Britain. This breed, one of the pioneers in the cat fancy world, has remained remarkably true to its origins over the centuries. As the British Shorthair evolved, strategic breeding decisions marked key milestones.

Between 1914 and 1918, breeders recognized the potential for refinement and introduced crosses with the Persian. This deliberate introduction of the longhair gene marked a crucial phase in the development of the British Longhair. The breed underwent a fascinating bifurcation, with short-coated cats retaining the British Shorthair mantle, while their longhaired counterparts found a place in Persian breeding programs.

In the early days, the blue shorthair exhibited two distinct archetypes: the robust, compact British with its characteristic round head, and the elongated, graceful Russian with its triangular head. These two types coexisted and were even interbred before eventually diverging into independent breeds.

The aftermath of World War I witnessed a pivotal moment for the British Shorthair. The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) mandated that only 3rd generation offspring of Persian/British Shorthair crosses could be presented in shows. This strategic decision, while reducing breeding stock, aimed to refine and elevate the breed’s standards. The challenges continued into World War II, impacting the British Shorthair’s trajectory.

Post-World War II, the British Shorthair faced a substantial setback as many of its bloodlines were nearly lost. In a concerted effort to revitalize the breed, breeders engaged in crosses with domestic shorthairs, Russian Blues, Persians, and other breeds. This collaborative breeding initiative contributed to the British Shorthair’s resurgence in popularity. Notably, in June 1979, the breed attained championship status in The International Cat Association (TICA), marking a significant milestone in its journey.

Amidst these endeavors, longhair kittens occasionally manifested in litters, representing a hidden facet of the British Shorthair. However, these longhaired felines lingered in relative obscurity as a distinct breed. It wasn’t until May 2009 that the majestic British Longhair earned its rightful place as a distinct companion breed, complementing the British Shorthair. Today, this imposing breed stands as a tribute to the heritage of Persians and Angoras from the early 1900s, embodying elegance and charm. The British Longhair, with its regal demeanor, has solidified its position by obtaining championship status in TICA, adding another chapter to the enduring legacy of these distinguished feline companions.

A Unified Elegance: Types of the Breed

While the British Longhair doesn’t have distinct types, its visual diversity is manifested through an array of coat colors. These include captivating hues like blue, cream, chocolate, and lilac. The breed shares its early lineage with the British Shorthair but distinguishes itself with its luxurious semi-longhair coat.

Exquisite Physique: A Symphony of Features

Colors: British Longhairs showcase a palette of colors, each contributing to their royal appearance. From the majestic blue to the enchanting lilac, their coat colors are a testament to their elegance.

Temperament: Known for their calm and easygoing temperament, British Longhairs make ideal companions. They are affectionate without being overly demanding, adding a touch of serenity to any household.

Body Shape and Face: Possessing a well-balanced physique, these cats have round faces adorned with large, expressive eyes that reflect their intelligence. Their ears are medium-sized and rounded, contributing to their endearing expression. A plumed tail adds to their majestic appearance.

Size and Weight: British Longhairs are medium to large cats, with males weighing between 13 to 18 pounds (6 to 8 kg) and females ranging from 9 to 13 pounds (4 to 6 kg). Their size and weight underscore their robust and healthy build.

Distinctive Features: The British Longhair’s semi-longhair coat and large, expressive eyes set it apart from other breeds. Their dignified appearance exudes an air of sophistication.

Recognition on the Global Stage

The British Longhair has rightfully earned its place among esteemed feline breeds with recognition from prominent cat associations. The International Cat Association (TICA) and other leading cat fancier organizations have embraced the British Longhair for its elegance and refined characteristics. This recognition has elevated the breed to international acclaim, celebrating its contribution to the diversity and beauty of the feline world.

Personality and Royal Habits

British Longhairs are celebrated for their gentle and affectionate personalities. They adapt well to routines and enjoy interactive play with their human companions. Their calm demeanor aligns them closely with the British Shorthair, but the longer coat of the British Longhair adds a touch of regality.

A Royal Reign: Lifespan

With attentive care, British Longhairs can enjoy a lifespan of 12 to 20 years. Regular veterinary check-ups, a nutritious diet, and a loving home environment contribute to their long and healthy lives.

Fascinating Facts and Quirky Tidbits

The breed’s dense coat evolved as an adaptation to the cold British climate, showcasing the practical origins of their regal appearance.
Despite their dignified demeanor, British Longhairs are known to engage in playful antics, adding a delightful touch of humor to their personality.
These cats often form strong bonds with their owners, following them around the house and participating in family activities.

Advice for Cherished Companions

Caring for a British Longhair involves regular grooming sessions to maintain their luxurious coat. Brushing a few times a week helps prevent matting and reduces shedding. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary check-ups ensure a healthy and happy life for these majestic companions.

In conclusion, the British Longhair, with its captivating history, striking appearance, gentle temperament, and international acclaim, is a breed that brings both elegance and warmth to the homes fortunate enough to host them. As stewards of these regal cats, providing love, care, and attention ensures a harmonious and enduring companionship.

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The Enigmatic Charm of Tonkinese Cats: Unveiling their Fascinating Story

From Distant Origins to Modern Recognition

The captivating tale of Tonkinese cats traces back to the early 20th century when their ancestors, the Siamese and Burmese cats, were first crossbred in Southeast Asia. However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that the deliberate breeding of Tonkinese cats began. The breed’s name pays homage to the Gulf of Tonkin, which borders Vietnam and symbolizes the journey of these enchanting felines from their historical roots to becoming a recognized breed worldwide.

A Harmonious Blend: Understanding the Types

Tonkinese cats come in two distinct types based on their coat colors: pointed and mink. Pointed Tonkinese cats display the characteristic color points seen in Siamese cats, with darker shades on their ears, face, paws, and tail. Mink Tonkinese cats, on the other hand, have a softer and more subtle coloration, with a beautiful mix of point and solid colors on their bodies. The combination of these colors creates a mesmerizing contrast that adds to their allure.

Elegance in Form and Feature: The Physical Traits

Tonkinese cats have a well-proportioned and medium-sized body with a sleek, muscular build. Their eyes are one of their most alluring features, displaying a stunning shade of aqua blue that hints at their affectionate and intelligent nature. Their ears are slightly tilted forward, giving them a curious and attentive expression. As for their coat, it is short, soft, and close-lying, requiring minimal grooming.

The Charismatic Personalities and Habits

Tonkinese cats are renowned for their engaging and affectionate personalities. They thrive on social interaction and actively seek out companionship from both humans and other pets. These extroverted felines are talkative, known for their soft and sweet voices, making them excellent communicators with their owners. Tonkinese cats are intelligent and curious, always eager to explore their surroundings and participate in household activities. Their friendly and playful nature makes them ideal pets for families and singles alike.

In comparison to other cat breeds, Tonkinese cats strike the perfect balance between the active and energetic Siamese and the calm and cuddly Burmese, combining the best of both worlds.

A Lifetime of Love and Companionship

Tonkinese cats are generally healthy and can live a long life, with an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years. With proper care, a balanced diet, regular vet checkups, and lots of love and attention, they can enjoy a fulfilling and cherished existence.

Intriguing Tidbits and Delightful Trivia

Tonkinese cats are often described as “champagne bubbles” because of their sparkling personalities and playful antics.
Their inquisitive nature and intelligence make them quick learners, and they can be taught tricks and commands.
Tonkinese cats are masters of acrobatics, and you might catch them gracefully leaping from one high place to another.
They are highly adaptable and thrive in various living situations, making them suitable for both city apartments and suburban homes.

Conclusion

In the realm of feline elegance and charm, the Tonkinese cats reign supreme. With their captivating history, striking appearances, engaging personalities, and playful habits, these delightful companions bring joy and love into the lives of their fortunate owners. Whether they are entertaining you with their amusing antics or showering you with affection, Tonkinese cats leave an indelible mark on the hearts of those who have the privilege of sharing their lives with these enchanting felines.

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Graceful Ears and Gentle Hearts: Unraveling the American Curl Cat Breed

The Enigmatic Origin and Fascinating History

The American Curl cat breed has a captivating tale that began in 1981 in Lakewood, California, when two stray cats with unique curled ears were discovered on the doorstep of Joe and Grace Ruga. They adopted one of the cats, which they named “Shulamith,” and she became the foundation cat of the American Curl breed. With careful breeding and dedication, the American Curl was recognized as a new breed by major cat registries in the late 1980s.

Types of the American Curl

The American Curl is known for its distinctive backward-curling ears, but there are two distinct types: long-haired and short-haired. The long-haired variety boasts a luxurious plume of fur, while the short-haired variety displays a sleek and velvety coat. Both types share the iconic curled ears that set them apart from other feline breeds.

Graceful Appearance and Unique Traits

The American Curl’s most striking feature is, undoubtedly, its elegantly curved ears that curl backward, sometimes up to 180 degrees. These ears are a result of a genetic mutation that occurred naturally. Beyond their captivating ears, American Curls have medium-sized, well-proportioned bodies with a gentle slope to their nose and a moderate wedge-shaped head. Their eyes can be any color and hold an intelligent, alert expression.

Gentle Personalities and Endearing Habits

The American Curl is a breed known for its loving and gentle nature. They form strong bonds with their human families and enjoy being part of household activities. These cats are not overly vocal but are excellent communicators through soft trills and chirps. American Curls are playful, intelligent, and adapt well to indoor living, making them delightful companions for families of all sizes.

In comparison to other cat breeds, American Curl Cats are often praised for their friendly and sociable demeanor, which allows them to get along well with other pets and children.

Lifespan and Loving Years

American Curls are generally healthy cats with an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years. With proper care, a well-balanced diet, regular vet checkups, and an environment filled with love and attention, they can live long, happy lives.

Intriguing Facts of American Curls and More

The genetic mutation responsible for their curled ears is not linked to any health problems and is a natural trait.
The American Curl has captivated the hearts of cat enthusiasts worldwide, leading to its recognition in numerous cat associations and competitions.
Despite their delicate appearance, American Curls are quite athletic and enjoy interactive play sessions.
The breed’s gentle and loving disposition makes them ideal therapy animals, providing comfort and companionship to people in need.

Conclusion

The American Curl cat breed, with its enchanting curled ears and warm temperament, continues to charm cat lovers globally. From their origin story to their elegant appearance and amiable personalities, these graceful felines have carved a special place in the hearts of many. Whether as affectionate companions or therapy animals, the American Curl will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to share their lives with these gentle and loving felines.

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The Beautiful and Simple Street Cat of Brazil. Brazilian Shorthair Cat Breed

The Story Behind the Origin of the Brazilian Shorthair

The Brazilian Shorthair Cat was first seen in the Brazilian streets after being brought by Portuguese sailors in 1500 CE. This breed’s establishment is the work of Paulo Samuel Ruschi, a Brazilian engineer who was the first to take an interest in the Brazilian Shorthair’s genetics and appearance. Paulo bred various street cats to create several breeds of cats. The World Cat Federation first recognized the Brazilian Shorthair as a pure cat breed in 1998. Although the Brazilian Cat’s popularity is growing, the breed has not yet received recognition from TICA and CFA.

The Brazilian Shorthair is very popular street cat of Brazil.

The Appearance of the Brazilian Shorthair

What Does This Brazilian Cat Look Like?

The Brazilian Shorthair Cat has a vast body; their weigh range is about 11-20 pounds. They are longer than their height and are muscular but not too sticky. The Brazilian Shorthair has pointed, large ears set apart significantly and large eyes. Eye color: green, gold, yellow. As their name suggests, these Brazilian cats have short and sleek fur and little undercoat. It means they don’t shed coats as much as other breeds of cats.

The Brazilian Shorthair can be of any color. These felines can be grey, brown, white, black, cream, or red. They can be colored and patterned, including calico, tabby, solid, tuxedo, tortoiseshell or bi-colored. An unmixed Brazilian Shorthair cannot resemble the “points” coat pattern, which is a cat with a darker face, tail, and legs.

The breed is different from the American Shorthair by its sleek and elegant appearance. The Brazilian Shorthairs also not as thin as the Siamese cats.

The Personality of the Brazilian Shorthair Cat and Its Significant Habits Compared With Other Breeds

The Brazilian Cat is outgoing and friendly. It loves interacting with humans and other household pets like dogs. This feline requires attention; it needs affection and playtime, which means it is comfortable around playful children. The Brazilian Shorthair likes to cuddle with their favorite human when their playtime is over. It would be best if you stocked your house with several toys to keep your Cat busy. Just like other cats, the Brazilian Shorthair cat also likes tree climbing. It is curious so it will explore and exercise most of the time. They have high intelligence and a medium tendency to vocalize.

How Long Do The Brazilian Cats Live?

A typical Brazilian cat will live for 14-20 years. However, these cats require medical attention if issues like ear infections or obesity arise. The Brazilian Shorthair has no common health complications, but if they develop an illness during their existence, it will help if you seek help from a veterinarian.

The Brazilian Cat Diet and Nutrition

Most cats have preferences for their dietary requirements; they need high protein, low fats, and carbohydrates. The Brazilian Shorthair feeds like other cats. Adult cats may need two meals daily, while kittens will be provided 3 to 4 times daily. It is best to avoid overfeeding your Cat so that it cannot develop obesity.

How You Should Care For the Brazilian Cat

Because these cats are playful, it would help if you established a playground for them. Create cat trees and scratch posts to ensure your Cat is entertained and happy. Its grooming is simple; it cannot be hypoallergenic because of its short hair. You can brush their coat once weekly, regularly brush their teeth, and take good care of their nails and ears.

Interesting Facts Concerning Brazilian Shorthair Cats

Many people believe that the Brazilian street cats that make up this breed’s foundation originated in Portugal.

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Chartreux Cat Breed. From France With Love

History and origin of Chartreux Cat Breed

The Chartreux Cat is believed to have originated from Syria in the 15th or 16th century because of its unique cloak of gray fur. And that the Crusaders who were going to France from Syria came with the ancestors of Chartreux. It became the best way of controlling the rodent (rats and mice) population while in France. The Chartreux history is traced to French Carthusian monasteries, which explains the quiet nature of the Chartreux Cat Breed. The Carthusian monasteries were from the Chartreuse Mountains north of Grenoble.

In the Jacques Savary des Brulons’ book, Dictionnaire Universel de Commerce is where the name Chartreux was first mentioned. But the origin of the name is not exactly known.

In 1925, it was recorded that two sisters, Christine and Suzanne Leger, who were in breeding animals, came across a group of blue-gray cats on the island of Belle-Île-en-Mer in France. They started taking care of the cats and, after that, started selective breeding. The unique woolly coat and appearance of the cats made the outstanding. After the encounter, the two sisters began domesticating them. In 1933, the cats were displayed at a cat show in Paris, and the Chartreux cats were notable.

Cat Club de Paris started breeding with blue cats from a colony in the Massif Central after Christine and Suzanne began breeding. In 1936, Cat Club de Paris acquired Japouk du Fouillox, a male blue Persian, to mate with the feral cat and improve the eye’s color.

Like many other breeds, the existence of the Chartreux’s species was threatened by World War II. But Keeley de Champion, one of the sons, was not affected and was mate a feral cat. In 1948, Keeley de Champol fathered Weekly de Trevise, a male cat that played a major role in the Cat Club’s breeding program.

Nevertheless, the earlier cats did not vanish due to their selective crossbreeding with the Persian, British Shorthair, and Russian Blue cats. The breed became renowned in France. The Chartreux Cat was recognized for its hunting prowess and intelligence, calmness, friendliness, and beautiful woolly coat. The cat breeders globally became aware of them. In 1970, the first Chartreux cat was brought to the United States by John and Helen Gamon. Its entrance to the United States made way for its acceptance into the Cat Fancier’s Association.

The Chartreux has now become the national treasure of France. The Chartreux Cat Breed cannot be easily found outside of Europe since they were returned to France by the breeding programs in the United States.

Physical Appearance and Other Characteristics of the Chartreux Cat Breed

The Chartreux cat breed has:

A blue-gray coat with a woolly texture
Orange eyes
Small, fine-boned legs
A round face, high forehead, full cheeks, and broadhead
Narrow muzzle and moderately long, broad, and straight nose
A weight of 12 to 16 pounds
A height of 9 to 11 inches

Chartreux cats are shorthair breeds with a muscular body. Their incredible strength, intelligence, and adaptability enable them to survive in the wild for a long time.

Personality of Chartreux

The Chartreux is silent but very communicative. Their playtime is short, and they take the rest of the day sleeping and relaxing. There get used to one habit, making them enjoy and expect the same game daily. They are good learners as they learn from themselves and the owners. They are also very friendly and calm; therefore, they can associate well with children and other animals. The Chartreux is known to bond closely with a person in the family, but they are also affectionate with others. They are very gentle and quiet, only meow when the need arises.

They mostly enjoy playing pouncing and catching games. Their high intelligence makes them taught able and do not require much attention. They are good companions to the elderly and those living alone because of their supportive and cheerful personalities. Their adaptability makes them very accommodating.

Lifespan of Chartreux

The life expectancy of the Chartreux cat breed is between 11 to 15 years.

Common Health Problems found in The Chartreux Cat

Chartreux cats are generally healthy but can also experience some health problems. The common health problems associated with the Chartreux cat include:

Luxating patella
Struvite crystals
Polycystic Kidney disease

The Care for The Chartreux

The Chartreux is easy to care for every week by brushing because of its short and thick coat. It doesn’t always require a bath. Brush the teeth of the cat daily to prevent periodontal disease. The nails should also be trimmed. With a soft and damp cloth, wipe the corners of the eyes to remove any discharge. Always check the ears every week to look for any dirty. The dirty should be wiped out with a cotton ball moistened with a mixture of cider vinegar and warm water.

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Lykoi: The Moon-Mad Meower

Origin and History of the Lykoi Cat Breed

The Lykoi’s origins are as a mutation within domestic cats that was initially discovered amongst two unrelated pairs of domestic shorthairs:

One pair, adopted by one Patti Thomas from a rescue after being found within the state of Virginia in 2010.
The second pair, was found within neighboring Tennessee a year later by veterinarian Johnny Gobble.

After initial and rigorous testing proved that these cats were truly unique, they were named Lykoi after Thomas’s remarks upon it being the Greek word for wolf-an apt description of their appearance.

In 2012, the Lykoi was submitted to The International Cat Association (TICA) and was unanimously passed on to “Registration Only” status. The breed was recognized as a “Championship breed” several years later and started competition against other similar breeds within TICA as early as May of 2017. The Cat Fancier’s Association (CFA) has regarded Lykoi, regardless of coloration, as a Provisional breed since 2022.

Types and Varieties of Lykoi Cats

The Lykoi is too young a breed to have many varieties like the Rex enjoys. Currently, any variation in Lykoi appearances are strictly limited to individual Lykoi.

Physical Appearance of the Lykoi

This werewolf-like cat is a medium-sized breed with a slender but fit body and wedged head that displays a trademark “mask” of bare skin around the face and rear of its ears. Standards are measured against a roan coat, meaning any color, though black is the most prominent. Furthermore, the coat should be fine, short and soft, with no undercoat.

Although named for a wolfish appearance, some Lykoi are overall hairless, rather than just devoid of hair around the face they bring the Canadian Sphinx to mind. Their coat has been compared to an opossum.

Personality and Major Habits of the Lykoi

This is a relatively friendly breed that is easy to get along with; Dr. Gobble likened them to well-behaved dogs. While they can initially be quite aloof around strangers, they soon turn affectionate and sweet.

Longevity of the Lykoi

The Lykoi is such a relatively young breed that their true longevity remains to be seen, leaving owners to regard them as just as healthy and long-lived as most other cat breeds. While kidney disease is a notable concern, that particular malady is common among all cat breeds.

Interesting Facts About Lykoi

This breed sheds often with age but can regrow hair based on the seasons.
Dermatologists at the University of Tennessee analyzed the initial Lykoi and they discovered that the Lykoi’s natural mutation means that not all of its hair follicles are equipped to create hair. Furthermore, follicles that could produce hair lacked a balance in the necessary components for maintaining hair; hence why they molt and can become temporarily hairless.
The CFA considers Lykoi to be exclusively indoor cats due to their coat’s impaired resistance to heat and cold.

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Korats, The Good Luck Cats From Thailand

A Rare and Friendly Breed of Cat

The Korat Cat breed, which is also referred to in their native Thailand as the Si-Sawat (or Si Sawat), are frequently called the “good luck cats” owning to their historic name and limited gene pool. They are rare even in Thailand. Alternative names of the breed are Khorat, Malet, Maleht.

A very stable oriental cat, they are primarily identified immediately by their beautiful, blue-grey with silver-tipped fur that appears to shimmer which, according to the Cat Fanciers’ Association, gives them the appearance of having a halo-looking appearance which is quite distinctive. The color of Si-Sawats’ hair is compared to grey nickernuts, or sawat seeds, i.e. beans of Gray Nicker, hence the name is Si-Sawat (meaning “the color of sawat seed”). Thai people also describe it as the color of a rain cloud, dark blue/grey. Korats shine like silver and have heart-shaped head and nose and even their chest forms as a shape of a heart.

Origin and History of the Si-Sawat Cat Breed

Also known as Siam cats, Korats are referred to in an ancient Thai book called “Cat-Book Poems” (Tamra Maew), which dates back to the Ayutthaya period of 1350 to 1767 in Thailand, so the breed has been in existence for some time.

Korat cat breeds were often given as gifts to brides upon their wedding as a symbol of good luck and good fortune for their future household with their husband and presumably children, so Korats spread rapidly in Thailand.

However, it wasn’t until 1959, that a pair of Korats were first imported to the USA. In the early 1970s, Korats began to come to the UK, and now the breed, although fairly rare, is found in many different countries.

Types of Breeds

Korats are a pure feline breed, but the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy does list experimental Korats, delineated by their color. In place of the traditional solid blue, recognizing Korat sub-breeds that are Thai Lilac and Thai Blue Point, having slightly different coloring shades than the traditional pure-bred Korat.

The Appearance of a Korat

These Thai cats are medium-sized cats weighing 6 to 10 pounds and around 15 to 18 inches in length. They have green or amber eyes and large forward-facing ears.

Their heads often look heart-shaped when viewed from the front, and combined with their striking hair, they are quite beautiful.

A Korat’s Personality

Korats simply love people and bond with them quite easily. They love to be held and cuddled and are content living in large families which is ideal for the typical Thai family.

They easily accommodate living with other cats and are just as comfortable cuddling as they are exploring and participating in cat games.

Providing the children in the family are socialized to treat your cat lovingly, they love children and adults equally.

The Lifespan of Korats

Korats tend to live a long life, with 18 or 19 years an expected lifespan. They also tend to be quite healthy, acquiring few of the diseases that affect other cat breeds.

Korats, with their warm temperament, are a fantastic cat breed to consider owning, and owners may or may not be brought good luck by owning the species, but they certainly will be rewarded with a loving cat that brings plenty of love to your household.

Differences Between Korat Cat Breed and Russian Blue

These cat breeds are visually similar but have differences. Many often find it difficult to distinguish them. Here are some differences and similarities that you can notice:

– They both have similar color of fur and eyes;

– The heart-shaped head of Korat and wedge-shaped head of Russian Blue;

– Korat doesn’t have a downy undercoat, but the Russian Blue has it and looks more fluffy than Korat because of it;

– Korat is a cat from a tropical country (Thailand), Russian Blue is from a cold Siberian city (Russia).

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The Origin, History and Physical Traits of the LaPerm – American Rex Breed

LaPerm is a hybrid cat breed with a “rex” gene. They stand out from other cat breeds by virtue of their curly, or wavy, fur. They were developed from a spontaneous mutation of domestic barn cats in Oregon and were officially named and recognized in 1995 by The International Cat Association (TICA).

How the LaPerm Cat Breed Was Born

The story of Curly, the first LaPerm cat, began over decades ago. Oregon became the center of the cat world when a barn cat named Speedy gave birth to an oddball kitten in 1982. The breeder, Linda Koehl, discovered the rare cat breed when this kitten was born with distinct physical features unlike any other cat in his litter.

The newborn kitten was almost bald and later developed small hairs. After the kitten started to develop a full coat that curled at the tips when they grow long, Linda’s husband (Richard Koehl) named this first wavy-haired kitten “Curly.”

Linda named the cat breed “LaPerm.” The breed’s name came from a single curl in a LaPerm mother’s coat due to the spontaneous genetic mutation. The gene was dominant, so they could quickly breed more generations with a little help from a breeding program. Breeders and enthusiasts refer to the aesthetic trait of its distinctive fur as “LaPerm” to this day.

Physical Appearance

LaPerm cats can be both long-haired and short-haired, with a curly, springy coat. With a height of 6 to 10 inches and weight between 8 to 10 pounds, the LaPerm is certainly a medium-sized cat. The LaPerm cat breed is a friendly and affectionate cat of high intelligence that gets along well with children, seniors, all family members and other pets in the home.

They have well-defined body shapes and come in many colors, including cream, red, gray, chocolate, lavender, silver, fawn, etc. Despite their long hair, their fur-lock extensions and distinctive wave coat do not require much grooming. The LaPerm cat breed possesses unique coat patterns, such as bi-color, solid, tabby, calico, or color point.

The body structure of the LaPerm is similar to Persian cats, but with thicker skin and a shorter muzzle. LaPerms have long legs, large ears, and a quite long tail.

Personality, Major Habits and Comparison With Other Cats

LaPerm is an affectionate, intelligent, and playful cat breed. It loves to be close to its owners and follows them around the house. The breed will bond with one or more of its family members, staying by their sides throughout the day. Although it’s affectionate, don’t mistake its friendliness for demandingness – LaPerms are content with receiving attention rather than giving it.

Because LaPerm has minimal shedding, owners only need to brush their cat’s coat twice or thrice a week to remove dead hairs. As for bathing, LaPerms are fairly clean cats that do not like water, so they only require bathing one time per month or less.

Playfulness and Vocalness

While not an energetic running buddy, it has loads of playfulness and loves to interact with you throughout your day. With a quiet demeanor, LaPerm isn’t prone to vocal theatrics and makes for a great companion when you’re in the mood to just hang out.

LaPerms are cats with an aura of mystery about them. This breed is an excellent hunter with a high prey drive, able to catch prey in the dark. Many owners find that LaPerm cats don’t mind it when people pick them up, and they will sit in their owner’s laps for hours at a time.

How Long Do They Live?

LaPerm is a healthy cat breed that lives from 10 to 15 years on average, a bit longer than other breeds. Thanks to their low-maintenance coats and genetic diversity, which means that they’re also less prone to diseases common in other cat breeds, such as arthritis or kidney disease.

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Calico Cat – Tricolor Happiness and Good Luck ^_^

Overview

Calico Cats generally refers to cats that come with a particular combination of colors, which are basically black, orange and white. Most people tend to make assumptions about the Calico being a breed, but that is not really the case. The term calico only refers to the tri-color coats. Apart from the aforementioned range of colors for this type of cats, there are others that may manifest themselves in different shades of beige, gray and white instead. These are still calico nonetheless. Herein, we shall delve deeper to get to understand different things about the Calico Cat Breed.

Origins and History of the Calico Cat

The Calico Cat is a mutation of genetics that has been traced back to Egypt. This particular mutation was found in some port cities along some parts of the Mediterranean Sea, in the cities of Spain, France and Italy. There are trade routes in Europe and Northern Africa then helped in the spreading of the goods that were getting transported. This way, the calico was spread out to other new places, including the US. The discovery and study of the calico cats however started way back in the year 1948.

Types of Breeds

The coat color that comes from calico cats is often a combination of two chromosomes of X. The fur that has three colors therefore needs to have a pair of X chromosomes in order for them to appear. Since the female cats are the ones that bear these X chromosomes, most of the calicos often end up being female, for this reason. On the other hand, the ones that get to have chromosomes that are X-XXY often end up being male. The male calico cats are however often male, and therefore end up not being able to produce any offspring.

Physical Appearance of Calico Cat Breed

The calico cats have coats that have a range of three or more colors, with the main ones typically being white, black, and orange. There may however be different shades of the aforementioned colors. The majority of the body is covered in white, with the other two colors of their shades, being found in some patches in different parts of the body. Because of the fact that they belong to different varying breeds, the other physical characteristics such as the shape of the nose and face, may vary from one cat to the other.

Personality and Major Habits

Bearing in mind that the term Calico refers mostly to the coloration of these cats and not the color exactly, the personality of these cats are mostly influenced by their breed and other factors. For example, the environment and experience that a particular Calico Cat Breed encounters will go a long way in playing a major role in the personality it ends up acquiring.
However, there are quite a number of studies and proves that have worked to show that these cats are very warm-hearted, loyal and sweet as well. On the flip side also, they can get to be very spunky, notorious at times, depending, and also quite smart.

Calico Cats’ Longevity of Lifespan

It should be noted that being calico does not exactly work to prolong the lifespan of the Calico Cats. Because of this, they tend to live to the general span of most cats, that is about 15 years or slightly more. However, this is different, based on each and every individual cat.

Interesting Facts

In Japan, Calico Cats are believed to bring good luck with them. In the years gone by, there are quite a number of Japanese sailors who would travel with calicos in their ships for what they believed was protection measures. Also in the U.K and U.S, they are thought to carry good luck, mostly because they are quite rare to come across.

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