Meow-Cats

Oriental Shorthair: Not Siamese, If You Please

Oriental Shorthair cat

The Oriental Shorthair is a specific breed of domestic feline that is related to the Siamese. It resembles the Siamese head and elongated body, with eyes shaped like almonds, and has a slightly shorter age span age span (10-15 years), but has a wide variety of colors and patterns, (around 300).

A Little History Repeating

Orientals represent a very diverse group of felines that find their origins within the Siamese breed. The first Siamese, was imported to the United Kingdom from Siam (present-day Thailand) in the late 19th century and spread abroad, becoming one of the world’s most popular breeds. In 1997, Oriental Shorthair was recognized as a breed for championship contention in the Cat Fancier’s Association or CFA. In 1985, the CFA recognized the two color (bicolor) variant, which was common in the breed. Approximately twenty years later, the breed was eventually recognized by the Governing Council(based in the United Kingdom), of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) in 1997, but with a few variations from the CFA. The GCCF issues a different series of breed registration rules for a number of certain Oriental Shorthair variations today. The World Cat Federation (WCF) recognizes the breed, but with color requirements that are not as restrictive. Although Oriental shorthairs come in both solids and variant colors, not all organizations accept all patterns. The World Cat Federation (WCF), for example will not accept white in this particular breed.

I See Your True Colors

Oriental Shorthair cats come in many different colors. They are by no means confined to the familiar cream and black coloring typical of their more familiar Siamese cousins. The Oriental Shorthair cat can be many different solid colors and patterns such as shaded, smoke, tortoiseshell, bicolor, and tabby. Any of the above colors can also be seen with white. Interesting fact about this breed that this breed of cats has more colors and patterns than any other cat breed.

You’ve Got Personality

Their personalities are similar to Siamese. Oriental Shorthair cat breeds tend to be social butterflies, friendly, intelligent, and rather vocal for felines. They have a dog-like personality and absolutely demand interaction. They are very active and playful even as adults. The Oriental Shorthair cat breeds are slender, very athletic, and possess superior leaping ability. They prefer to pair up or hang in groups and also love interacting with humans. As pets, they are extremely loyal and can even show jealousy if you are giving attention to another cat, or not giving them enough tender loving care. If they feel unappreciated, they can become unhappy. You should rain affection upon your Oriental, and you will have them eating out of your hand.

These cats are very intelligent and curious, they can easily open a drawer and even doors. There is an opinion that they are the smartest of all cat breeds.

Appearance and Characteristics of Oriental Shorthair Cat Breed

Oriental Shorthairs have a triangular wedge-shaped head with tall bat-like ears. Those ears are excellent at hearing, but may need to be cleaned more frequently than those of other cats, because they tend to attract dirt. Their bodies are sleek but toned. Oriental Shorthairs have a very exotic look because of very slender and long body with a unique head shape and ears. Most of them have striking green eyes.

Orientals are medium-size cats that typically weigh 5 to 11 pounds (2-5kg).

Types of breed

There is a long-haired breed of Oriental Shorthair. It is the Oriental Longhair, which has been acknowledged since 1995 by CFA. It is similar in nearly every way to the shorthair version, but carries a recessive gene for long hair.

Caring for your Oriental Shorthair Cat

Oriental Shorthair cats have a silky fur, which, because it is short, doesn’t require nearly as much maintenance as longer haired versions. Usually all you need is a comb to stroke it, and a soft cloth a few times during the month, to keep it in great condition. Remember, grooming your Oriental shorthair is as much about bonding with your cat as it is maintaining their hygiene. Grooming is an important way to give them your attention. You and your cat will come to mutually enjoy these special moments, and will look forward to each other’s company, as the Oriental shorthair seems to be bred for companionship.

Interesting facts

* The Oriental Shorthair is reported to trigger almost little to no allergies for those who are said to be allergic to cats.

* They have more colors and patterns than any other cat breed.

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Looking For A Unique Pet? Meet the Peterbald Cat, One of the Rarest Cat Breed in the World

A very unique type of cat, is the Peterbald Cat Breed. This cat looks like what the name infers, a bald hairless cat. However, upon close examination, you will see very fine and short hair. The Peterbald cat, is unlike many other breeds, truly loving people, and will very much be a part of your family.

History of the Peterbald Cat. Where did they come from?

The Peterbald cat breed came from a unique experimental breeding in Russia (St. Petersburg). In 1994, Olga S. Mironova bred a male Don hairless, or Don Sphynx, with a female Oriental shorthair, and the first four Peterbald kittens were born. So, this is a relatively new breed of cat. Three years later, in 1997, this type of cat was classified as a breed of its own by The International Cat Association (TICA) and only in 2003 it was placed in the World Cat Federation (WCF) with the abbreviation of PBD. In 2009 it was accepted for entrance into Championship class competition and this breed became a very popular breed.

The appearance and the unique distinctions of the Peterbald Cat

A Peterbald Cat is a very unique cat. First, as the name implies, they have hair loss genes, and tend to have either short hair or no hair at all. Second, they have slenderness and gracefulness of the Oriental cat breed which Sphynx cat breed doesn’t have. Peterbalds have triangular shaped heads with long face and long nose, huge wide apart bat-like ears, almond-shaped eyes, long legs and tails, slender and muscular body. Its coat, or better to say, the skin has variety of colors. They can weigh from 7-14 pounds (3-6 kg). The uniqueness of the Peterbald is, moreover, in its lifespan, it is shorter than in most feline breeds: Peterbalds live from 10 to 15 years.

The Peterbald is also known for its oval, and webbed shaped paws. It enables them to maneuver toys, and, with much determination, they can jump up and open doors, making them escape artists. You may have to buy childproof door handles to keep your kitty safe.

Comparing to Sphynx

Major differences between these two breeds:

Despite the fact that both breeds are hairless, the genetic reasons of that are different. The Peterbald’s “hairless” gene is a dominant gene, whereas the Sphynx’s gene is a recessive gene. They have a completely different look too.
Sphynx feel like warm peaches or chamois, Peterbalds can have a variety of coats from sticky bald to a brush coat.
Peterbald’s body type is refined and elegant with elongated face and almond shaped eyes, the Sphynx is pear shaped medium sized cat with a much shorter, wider face and lemon-shaped eyes.
The Peterbald’s ear set is lower than on Sphynx.
Many Peterbalds have curly whiskers, Sphynx cats are usually have none or have broken whiskers.

Are there varieties? Five types of Peterbald Cats

Bald, as implied. No hair, whatsoever, not even whickers, or eyebrows, and can seem sticky to the touch. This type of cat never grows hair, but can have a small degree of hair on the points (tail, ears, feet). Some kittens can born with curly hair and then become very bald with the time.
Chamois, or Flock: so named for Chamois leather, as it feels like this. It is 90% hairless version.
Velour: is the 70% hairless breed, with just the slightest bit of hair, about 1mm, and feels just like velour, hence the name.
Brush coat: has short hair, about 5mm, and is a bit wiry and curly. The hair feels like felt. You can pet them in either direction, and it will feel the same. The brush coat breed is unique, and only seen in this one variety of any cat known.
Straight: This one closely resembles its ancestor the sphinx since it is the only one of the breed that has a short luxurious coat of hair. The straight coat, has short hair, and whiskers as well. There is no hair loss gene in this variety.

The behavior of the Peterbald Cat Breed. Peterbalds are great pets

The Peterbald is very gentle in nature. These cats love their humans and will stick by your side constantly. They crave attention and love to play all day. A Peterbald also loves to “talk” to you. They have very unique sounds. Sometimes they hiss like a snake, and other times they have a wild animal sound like a tiger growl. They are extremely fun to be around. The Peterbald also is great around other animals including other breeds of a cat as well. As for its nature, in general, it is quite loving and wants to be loved. It absolutely loves attention and enjoys the pampering.

Caring for the Peterbald Cat

They are virtually maintenance free, as you do not need to bathe them as often due to their very short hair. However, because of this, these cats get cold very easily and must kept indoors, where it is warm and cozy. This breed of cats is very vulnerable to temperature extremes, so you have to keep your little friend warm every time to avoid any health issues. Peterbalds also need sunscreen if you are going to expose them to the sun outdoors because they have no fur to protect them from the sun. As for feeding this breed tends to be quite active which means that its metabolism burns quite a bit of fuel so the Peterbald cat may need to be fed more than other feline breeds.

How much does a Peterbald Cat cost? Why do they cost that much?

The Peterbald cat breed is a highly sought out breed in the U.K. This greatly increased the cost of the particular breed. Everyone loves them because of their unique features and relatively ease of care. Prices start at about $1000 (American dollar) and can go quite a bit higher. It all depends on the breeder and the unique qualities of the particular type of Peterbald cat.

In Conclusion

If you are looking for a one of a kind cat, or even just one that will unconditionally love you, this is the breed. Please note that if you suffer from allergies, these cats are not hypoallergenic, so you may not be able to get one, even though they don’t have much hair. Try to find one to check yourself before acquiring your own new feline friend, or consult with your doctor. Good luck, and enjoy!

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Selkirk Rex: A Cuddly and Playful Breed

The Selkirk Rex is a naturally occurring curly cat breed that looks like a stuffed animal you’d love to pick up and snuggle. The breed is medium-sized with solid, sturdy bodies and plush coats. These cats come in both long-haired and short-haired versions. Selkirk Rex cats may make good family pets, as they are generally playful, loving, and patient.

Breed History

The Selkirk Rex cat breed originated in Montana in 1987 when an unusual-looking kitten was discovered in a litter born to a rescued cat. The kitten was given to Persian breeder, Jeri Newman, who named her Miss DePesto. She was bred with Jeri’s black award-winning Persian, which produced a litter of six kittens – three with curly hair and three with straight hair. This litter showed that the Selkirk Rex coat gene is dominant, unlike the genes for Cornish Rex and Devon Rex cats.

Jeri named the breed after her stepfather, “Selkirk.” To date, these cats are the first and only breed to be named after a person. The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) accepted the Selkirk Rex for recognition in 1992, and the breed achieved Championship Status in 2000. The International Cat Association (TICA) recognized the breed in 1992.

The Types of Selkirk Rex Cats

Selkirk Rex cats come in both shorthair and longhair. The shorthair cats have a plush, dense curl to their coats, similar to that of a teddy bear while the longhair cats have a more tousled look, resembling that of a woolly sheep.

Breed Appearance

Selkirks are medium to large in size with strong, heavy boning. The breed’s head is round, containing no flat planes.

When they’re born, Selkirks have curly whiskers. The whiskers are brittle and may break as they get longer. A Selkirk’s hair and whiskers do not change as they mature; if they are curly when they are kittens, they will also be curly as adults. The breed has the most curl on its flanks, stomach, and around its neck. A Selkirk’s back contains the least amount of curl. These cats come in any and all possible solid and combination of colors.

Selkirk Rex Personality

In general, Selkirk Rex cats are relaxed. These cats get their cuddly nature from their Persian and British Shorthair ancestors. However, Selkirks are more active than either of these breeds.

Selkirks like people and other animals. Given its social nature, this breed doesn’t enjoy being left alone for long periods of time. They are affectionate and tolerant, but they may not necessarily be lap cats. They love to play and they will demand your attention if they feel they’re being ignored.

Lifespan of the Breed

A Selkirk Rex generally lives between 10 and 15 years. As with any cat, a feline’s diet, genetics, activity level, overall health, and environment can affect how long it lives.

Interesting Facts About the Selkirk Rex Cat Breed

Because the gene for curly hair in the Selkirk Rex cat breed is dominant, curly and straight-haired kittens can be born in the same litter. Selkirk Rex kittens actually temporarily lose their curly hair around six months of age. They grow sparse, straight hair from around six months of age until they fully mature at the age of two years. Selkirk Rex cats are one of four breeds that have curly hair. This breed has three layers of hair, whether it is long-haired or short-haired, and each layer of hair is curly.

Selkirk Rex Grooming Needs

You don’t want to brush these cats too frequently because doing so may make its coat appear less curly. Combing these cats a couple of times each week is sufficient for preventing and untangling mats. Regular combing also helps remove dead hair and skin cells from the cat’s coat.

Some Selkirk Rex cats have a tendency to get a greasy coat. If this is the case, the cat may need regular baths with moisturizing shampoo. Allow the cat to air dry as using a hair dryer ends up making the feline look like a poodle.

Selkirks are unique cats with plush, curly coats and loving and affectionate personalities. The breed’s gentle personality makes it a good family pet. With proper nutrition, care, and a loving home, a Selkirk may live into its teens, providing many years of companionship to its humans.

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The Arabian Mau Cat – The Alley Cat

A History of the Arabian Mau Cat Breed

The Arabian Mau is a short-haired breed of domestic cat, originated from the desert cat that is native to the desert regions of the Arabian Peninsula (particularly Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates). This cat breed lives on the streets and adapted to the extreme temperatures.

The Arabian Mau descended from the African wild cat living in the desert of the Middle East, such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates. The descendants have been around for over 1000 years, making the Arabian Mau one of the oldest natural breeds of cats. Also this breed related to Egyptian Mau, one of the oldest breeds of cats as well.

As the human population grew and the wild cat found it harder to find food in the desert, it began searching for food in towns and cities.

During the twenty-first century, the director of the Middle East Cat Society, Petra Muller, organized a selective breeding program after taking an interest in these “alley cats”. It was Muller who gave the wild cats their name of Arabian Mau. In 2008, the cat gained recognition as being a pedigreed breed at the Annual General Meeting. In 2009, the Arabian Mau cat breed was permitted to participate in cat shows and it has been acknowledged by the Middle East Cats Society as a formal breed.

Types and Characteristics of Arabian Mau Cat Breed

It is a medium-sized short-haired cat with a medium-length tail, muscular body and long legs. The head appears to be round, but it is slightly longer than broad with well-defined whisker pads and oval eyes. The Arabian Mau naturally occurs in a wide array of patterns and colors, but the most recognized as a solid red, black or white, or a combination of these colors. This breed typically has the stripes of a tabby. Depending of color of coat, the Arabian Mau normally has green or yellow eyes (color of eyes matches the coat color). The Arabian Mau has large ears which are pointed so as to release heat from its strong body. This comes from its descendants living in the hot desert for so long and needing a way to cool down. Fur without undercoat, short, tight fitting to the body, the fur of adult cats to the touch is not very silky, more rigid. Weight ranges from 8-16 pounds (4-7 kg), depending on if the cat is male or female. The lifespan of an Arabian Mau is typically 12-14 years, unless it lives in extremely comfortable conditions. A domesticated cat living in the house could live up to 20 years. This breed generally has good health and a good immune system.

Loving and Devoted

This cat’s number one characteristic is its devotion to its owner. It is a loving, and territorial cat that will follow its owner anywhere. It will circle and guard its territory from other cats and animals. The Arabian Mau gets along with older children and other animals. It is a quiet cat unless insisting something. Then it is a very vocal cat with a high demanding meow. The Arabian Mau loves to play. It is a very social and energetic cat. It requires a lot of attention to keep it entertained. This cat is very intelligent and can become mischievous and curious. It also loves to eat. The desert wild cat had to search all over for its food. As a result, the domesticated Arabian Mau will still eat almost anything and has not given up its love of the hunt. It is a terrific hunter and jumper.

Low Maintenance

This is a very neat cat. It takes good care of itself and does not require much maintenance. Brushing is only required once in a while to make the coat shine and get rid of excess hair. The Arabian Mau cat breed has little to no shedding which makes it considered a hypoallergenic breed.

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Sokoke (Khadzonzos), One of the Rarest Cat Breeds with African Roots

Origins

The Sokoke Cat Breed (or Sokoke Forest Cat in long form, and formerly the African Shorthair) is a natural breed of a domestic cat. The Sokoke Cat was standardized in the late 1970s from the feral cats of Kenya known as khadzonzo or kadzonzo. The Sokoke breed is characterized and named after the Arabuko Sokoke National Forest, where the breed was first started. The original Sokoke was breed for further breed development in Denmark and the United States. The Sokoke is a pure cat breed recognized by the four major cat registry organizations.

History of The First Ever Sokoke Cats

Jeni Slator

The first Sokoke ever seen was found by a Kenyan farmer in 1978. This farmer, Jeni Slator, found a litter of these kittens in her coconut plantation. Jeni took these kittens home and adapted them as pets. She paired off two of the kittens and with her household staff and they hand reared the two kittens.

Gloria Moeldrup

Gloria Moeldrup was a fishing client of Jeni Slator. Gloria saw the cats and decided to move the breeding pair to Denmark. The two breeders, named “Jenny” and “Mzur”, had their first litter.

In 1990, Gloria imported three more cats to strengthen the breeding stock. By this action, Gloria ensured the breed continuing. Today it is one of the rarest cat breeds on the planet.

Characteristics of The Sokoke Breed

Sokoke Overall Body Structure

The Sokoke breed has the body size of a medium size domestic cat. The Sokoke breed is long and thin, having long legs. The breed walks with a stiff stride, primarily their back legs are longer than their front legs. Their eye color is amber to light green. Their head is a small size, with long ears. The Sokoke has a tapered tail. The Sokoke’s head resembles the structure of a wildcat.

Coloring of The Sokoke Breed

Sokoke Basic Pattern

The Sokoke breed has a blotted spotted swirled (tabby) coat. Their coats are the shades of brown, giving the Sokoke a “salt and pepper look” in appear and coloring. This coloring and pattern extends all the way down to their tail. Even though their coat is similar to blocked patterns found in other tabby breeds, the Sokoke has distinct and unique features in coloring and pattern.

Sokoke Coats and Coloring

The Sokoke coats are short in length, but the coat feels and looks lustrous. Some coat colors are black or near black, and blue colors. At this point, these colored coat Sokoke breeds are not accepted for showing by most registries. With the advent of these new color coatings, the Sokoke has shown marble type patterns, deviating from the traditional tabby patterns.

Personality, Activity, and Favorable Environment

Personality

The Sokoke breed is very active. They love to climb. Having a dominant personality, the Sokoke takes the lead when in their environment with other cats. They bond deeply to their owners and to other cats living with them.

Change in Environment

Since the attachment of the Sokoke breed for its owners is so strong, they have a difficult time adjusting to a new environment. Traditionally because of this, the Sokoke needs a longer time to bond to its new owners and get acclimated to its new environment.

Best Suited Climates for The Sokoke Breed

The Sokoke is best suited to a controlled environment. This breed does not fair well in extremely cold climates.

Independent Personality

The Sokoke can keep itself occupied for hours. The Sokoke prefers simple items to play with. The Sokoke is alert at all times, and if necessary will use its teeth and claws for defense if it feels threatened.

Not A Lap Cat

This breed of cat does not like to sit in your lap. To show its affection, the Sokoke breed will follow its owners around the house.

Lifespan and Care of The Sokoke Cat Breed

Care of This Breed

This breed does not shed a lot of hair. The coat of this breed needs to brush about once a week. Since the Sokoke breed can naturally swim and is not afraid of water, keeping the cat clean is not hard as other cat breeds.

Lifespan

Common to the average lifespan of domestic cat, this breed usually lives about 15 years.

Summary -Fun Facts about the Sokoke Breed

– This breed loves to clatter and talk, they will purr to their owners for hours.
– This breed responds effectively to training.
– This breed of cat can be trained to walk on a leash.
– This breed is highly active.
– This breed is highly intelligent.
– This breed can adjust to dwelling and living with other cats.
– This breed can adjust to living around dogs.
– This breed is noted overall as being a healthy breed.

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The Nebelung Cat Breed Is Intelligent, Gentle, And Has A Luxurious Appearance

The History

A Nebelung cat belongs to the Russian Blue variety of cats with much longer hair. The name is German and translates to creature of the mist referring to the silvery-blue shimmery coat. Cora Cobb developed the Nebelung cat breed through the Nebelheim Cattery. The inspiration came from a kitten named Siegfried who was the litters only longhaired blue kitten. The mother was named Elsa and was a black domestic shorthair. The father was a black longhaired cat. The second litter produced Brunhilde, a female blue kitten with long hair. This pair were the start of the Nebelung cat breed and produced the first litter in 1986. By the end of the 1980’s longhaired Russian Blues were being imported from Eastern Europe to develop the breed. In 1987, the Nebelung cat received new breed status from the International Cat Association and were fully recognized in 1997.

The Personality

The Nebelung cat breed lives to 15 to 18 years of age and is considered a somewhat shy, quiet and gentle cat. The Nebelung cat loves to jump and climb to high places and study people at their leisure. Most of this cat’s attention is directed towards the family and they enjoy riding on a shoulder. The Nebelung cat is very loyal, sensitive, and can be hurt when the attention given is more than received. This can cause fearfulness and anxiety. The Nebelung cat breed enjoys attention but entertains themselves well if left alone for the workday. This breed is intelligent, active, graceful, and not destructive. The Nebelung cat will take offense if laughed at and knows their self-worth. This cat does not like change and thrives in a stable, quiet environment. Meals must be on time and faithfully served.

The Health

The Nebelung cat breed is healthy despite the genetic health problems common with cats of mixed breeds. The main concern with a Nebelung cat is a large appetite that can result in excess weight.

The Communication Aspect

The Nebelung cat breed form a strong bond with their families that’s last for their entire life provided they are treated with respect and kindness. They are tolerant with children but care must be taken with small children who pet them too roughly. The Nebelung cat will accept all additional pets provided they are not menaced or chased. New pets such as dogs or puppies should be introduced gently and in a controlled atmosphere.

The Care

A Nebelung cat has a long, thick coat of hair that requires combining twice each week. This will distribute the oils in the skin and remove any dead hair. The teeth should be brushed daily whenever possible to prevent periodontal disease. Nails should be trimmed approximately twice every month. It is important to wipe the corners of a Nebelung cat’s eyes with a damp, soft cloth so any discharge is removed. The ears should be checked weekly and cleaned with a damp, soft cloth moistened with a combination of warm water and cider vinegar when dirty. These cats are incredibly particular about their hygiene and the litter box should be spotlessly clean. A Nebelung cat is best kept as an indoor cat.

The Appearance

A Nebelung resembles a Russian Blue with an incredibly thick shimmery coat. They are muscular with a wedge-shaped head. The ears are large with a wide base and pointed at the tips. The eyes are spaced wide with an oval shape and a deep green hue. The eye color is not fully developed until they are approximately two years of age. The neck is long and slender with a moderately shaped body. The Nebelung cat breed is athletic without any bulk, and the body is well proportioned with medium bones. The legs are medium-boned and long with rounded oval paws. The tail is thick, can be longer than the body, and has longer fur. The coat is luxurious and the color of the coat is a solid blue once the cat has reached maturity. The males have a neck ruff not prominent in the female. The hair increases in length as it travels from the shoulder to the tail. The fur behind the ears is a much lighter shade of blue and full maturity is not reached until the age of two.

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Why Everyone Should Own a Chinese Li Hua

Origins of the Dragon Li (Chinese Li Hua) Cat Breed

The Dragon Li, also known as the Chinese Li Hua, China Li Hua, Li Hua, Li Hua Mau, Li Hua Mao and 貍花貓 (in Chinese character), or simply Li Mao is of Chinese decent. This Chinese breed of domestic feline originates from the dynastic culture and ancient Chinese folklore. Dragon Lis are believed to be a natural breed, meaning they are a single breed, and not a combination of multiple different breeds. In 2003 the Li Hua debuted as an experimental breed class in Beijing, China December 30, 2003 – January 6, 2004. In February of 2010, the Dragon Li was officially accepted into the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA), as a miscellaneous breed. The Chinese Li Hua is believed to be one of the oldest domestic breeds, based on it being mentioned throughout ancient Chinese literature. The closest link to the Dragon Li is the Chinese mountain cat. When the Li Hua first appeared in China, people would mistake it as a fox. This was so common, they included the Chinese symbol for fox when naming the Li Hua.

Myths of the Li Hua

It was once thought, that these cats were supreme rulers of the land, and were even able to speak. It’s believed that the cats gave up their power and speech to live easier lives, where humans would serve their every need.

Physical Attributes of a Chinese Li Hua

A Dragon Li usually weighs between 8 and 12 pounds (3,5 – 6 kg). The Chinese Li Hua is predominantly a brown and black tabby, with big rounded eyes that are either green, brown or yellow. This breed has very distinctive markings. The Dragon Li has black rings around its tail and legs and black necklace on the neck. The end of its tail is solid black, and its belly is a combination of brown and yellow. The ticked hairs are black at the root, light yellow in the middle and brown at the tip. The Dragon Li also has distinct markings on its face and belly. There are black lines going from its eyes that curve down to below its mouth. The Chinese Li Hua has two black markings on the upper corners of its mouth that almost makes it appear to be smiling. On the belly there is a combination of leopard like spots, two vertical and four horizontal. The Dragon Li’s ears resemble those of a Bobcat, medium in size with a pointed tip.
The Dragon Li has a wide muscular body with a slightly shorter tail. A Chinese Li Hua grows at a slow rate, it may take anywhere up to three years until it reaches its full size.

The Infinite Wisdom of a Dragon Li

The Chinese Li Hua is known for its superior intelligence. The Dragon Li is very gentle with humans, and typically good with children as well as other animals. In contrast to its relation with people, the Li Hua is an impressive hunter of smaller rodents and household pests. They are highly in tune with their environment and act accordingly. It is exceptionally easier to teach the Dragon Li tricks, than it is for most breeds. It has been said, that a Dragon Li has even been trained to retrieve a daily news paper. The Li Hua possesses a perspicuous, clear and effective, relationship with humans. However the Dragon Li is not an overly affectionate or vocal breed. Although the Li Hua likes to play and be around people, it is also known to be a bit of a loner. It will spend hours at a time by itself.

Caring for Your Li Hua

The Li Hua is pretty well self sufficient. Their short coat is easily groomed, brushing once a week is enough. The Li Hua’s ears should be checked weekly, any buildup should be removed with cotton ball or soft cloth. An even mixture of water and apple cider vinegar works wonders in a cats ears, don’t worry it is completely safe. This breed should be kept inside at all times, due to the natural dangers that come along with being outside, and the rarity of the breed. Dragon Li needs enough space for living and feels bad in the smaller space.

Who Should Own a Chinese Li Hua?

This breed is truly for any cat lover. It will adapt well, regardless if there are other animals or children present. They don’t require a high level of maintenance and aren’t overbearing. Anyone looking for a cat that will fit into any lifestyle and surroundings the Chinese Li Hua is hands down the breed to go with. Depending on the type of Li Hua the average price range is between 400 and 900 dollars.

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The Donskoy Cat (Don Sphynx) One Of The Most Unique

History of the Donskoy Cat

don-sphynx The first Donskoy cat or more popularly known as the Don Sphynx was found in Russia in the late 1980’s for the first time. It was discovered being abused by children using it as a soccer ball by Elena Kovaleva. She was a professor at the time and ended up adopting the kitten out of the precarious situation. The cat lost all of her hair and later gave birth to kittens. The kittens born were both haired and hairless. After more people abandoned the hairless kittens a cat breeder named Irina Nemikina got involved.

This courageous woman decided to work to start a new breed of Russian Donskoy cat which was completely hairless. She gave this breed the name Don Sphynx. It was named after a waterway where the original kitten was found in Russia. The hairless trait is caused by a dominant gene which occurs regularly in a litter. They also all become hairless by around three years old.

Appearance and characteristics of the Donskoy cat

The Donskoy cats look like you would imagine a naked cat to look. Their skin is wrinkled and their eyes pierce through to your soul with love. They have an old world appearance and might even remind you of little elderly creatures, but don’t let that fool you because they are not. Many people equate their tails to the look of rats and their plump little bellies to that of baby pigs. They also have uniquely duck like webbed paws that they can use to manipulate things. These adorable fellows really do have a look that is all their own, except the Sphynx who they are not actually related to at all. The Don Sphynx is one beloved breed.

Different types of the Don Sphynx

Many assume that there is only one kind of this breed, but there are actually three types of different hair patterns. They all will become bald at one time or another, but the suede is considered completely nude from birth on. Next, is the brush texture which is similar to a wire hair brush. Lastly, there are kittens that are born with what many consider to be Velour texture a very soft texture. Their, skin in general, is very soft to touch. They come in every color pattern imaginable.

Personalities aplenty for the Donskoy cat

While the nakedness of this cat may make them seem cold and boring they are anything but that. They are warm and friendly; energetic and people loving; intelligent and content with their lives. Don Sphynx cats are actually considered to be the dog of all cats because they are very helpful to humans. They love to stand out. These cats get along with everyone that they know as long as they come first. Don Sphynx Cats can’t be manhandled too much by those that do not know how to do it appropriately because they have no fur to protect them. This means children must be observed at all times around the Don Sphynx.

Special tips for future Don Sphynx owners

The Don Sphynx Cat is a rare breed and can often be difficult to find, but a good search will locate one. Because they have skin and not fur it is very important to make sure that they are bathed on a regular basis. If they are not their skin can become susceptible from too much oil. Don Sphynx Cats are considered to require regular maintenance. They often start out with a curl of hair on top of their head and they will eventually lose it. These cats are known to be extremely devilish and you need to get on them right away for bad habits. Overall Don Sphynx cats are fantastic, fun and friendly companion cats well worth checking out. Just make sure you are ready to put effort into your new Don Sphynx Cat as with any new pet. They are becoming unique members of your family to be cherished.

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Chausie Cats – From the Jungle to our Living Rooms

History of the Chausie

It was in the 1990’s that the Chausie Cat Breed was first created. Chausie cats are a hybrid, man-made species, created from the mix of wild felix chaus and domesticated felix catus. In everyday terms, wild jungle cats from south-central Asia were bred with domesticated house cats. This created large, active, social and generally friendly house pets. Similar breeds include the Bengal and Savannah cats.
Appearance

As one of the largest domesticated breeds, Chausie Cats can weigh in around thirty pounds and are generally fourteen to eighteen inches tall. That is a similar size to many medium dogs, for example a Schnauzer, so this isn’t an everyday sized kitty. Chausies have large ears and cougar-like facial features including an elongated snout. Apt jumpers, they can also use their slightly longer hind legs to spring up to six feet in the air. A shorter tail and a longer body are characteristic of Chausies, and they have a very distinctive tabby pattern that makes their short hair uniquely beautiful.

Temperament of Chausies

The Chausie Cat Breed has roots in both the jungle and the home, and this has created a species that is both highly energetic and also highly social. Having room and time to play, as well as having caretakers that are around more often than they are away makes for a perfect Chausie Cat home. Chausies that are too often left alone will become unhappy, and this can even lead to destructive behaviors if not addressed.
Diet

The Chausie Cat Breed, while otherwise relatively low maintenance, requires a specific diet. Their digestive systems cannot properly process plant matter, and if their food contains gluten or veggies it can lead to malnutrition. That being said, it is important to feed Chausies only meat-based diets as often as possible. This extra attention will ensure a healthy, happy Chausie cat.

Lifespan of Chausies

Similar to other house cats, Chausies usually live to be between twelve and fourteen years of age. This is an important piece of information for perspective owners, as they will need to commit to a decade plus of care and play if they select this sweet but high energy feline.

General Care of Chausie Cat

The Chausie Cat Breed is short haired, but in order to keep their coats smooth and healthy they should be brushed once per week. They should be fed a completely carnivorous diet and should always have access to their own fresh water. As they are social, they also require daily play and social interaction in order to maintain their energetic and loving personalities.

Tips to Consider

Chausies are caring and social creatures, but were initially derived from wild beasts. Their possible violence, even if it is meant playfully, combined with their large size, means that families with small children should carefully consider the purchase of a Chausie. It isn’t fair to the children or the animals if the living situation is compromised. Only experienced pet owners with the right amenities and resources should look in to the purchase of this breed of cat.

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What Is Unique About the Snowshoe Cat

Snowshoe Overview

The Snowshoe cat is so named because of their white feet and upside down white v-shaped muzzles. They are a breed of Siamese and usually have blue eyes. Their markings depend on a combination of recessive genes, which makes them a rather rare breed.

How the Unique Breed was Discovered

The Snowshoe was first discovered by a Siamese breeder named Dorothy Hinds-Daugherty in the Philadelphia area in the 1960’s. Daugherty noticed that three of her kittens in one litter had what appeared to be a “white boot” look on their feet. Since it’s darker feet that are typical of the Siamese, she didn’t want to register them as Siamese. Daugherty then proceeded to breed her Snowboots with an American Shorthair and was able to successfully result with a Snowshoe line.

Snowshoe Cats Have Few Health Issues

The Snowshoe cat breed tends to be an overall very healthy one. However, like the purebred Siamese, they do tend to be vulnerable to dental issues, such as gingivitis so it’s a good idea to regularly monitor and brush their teeth. Since their hair is so short, they rarely shed and usually, their self-cleanses are enough for them to get by. Though brushing them on a regular basis to remove the dead skin cells that they can’t get to is never a bad idea. The Snowshoe cat breed is known for having a long life span and are known for living for up to almost 20 years. They are medium-sized cats and a maximum of 12 pounds is considered to be a healthy weight. However, Snowshoe females tend to be a little smaller, weighing up to 10 pounds.

Personality of this Unique Breed

The Snowshoe cat breed generally tends to be cheerful and even-tempered. The Snowshoe is very social and tends to get anxious if left alone for hours on end during the day. As a result, the Snowshoe cat is a good one to bring home to a family with young and playful children. The Snowshoe may pick a favorite but most are always at least friendly to everyone. However, if your schedule requires that you and/or everyone in your household be away from home for hours on end, it’s best to get a second cat or a dog that it can socialize with during that time period.

Comparison to the Purebred Siamese

Like the Siamese, the Snowshoe cat can be quite chatty but they are usually not as loud as a purebred Siamese. Snowshoe cats can be taught tricks similar to dogs in that they can be trained to fetch, to open doors. The Snowshoe cat breed is also perhaps one of the few who typically cooperate with walking on a leash. Unlike most other cat breeds, Snowshoes tend to enjoy water and have been known to swim on their own initiative.

Snowshoes Know How to be Quietly Energetic

Snowshoes are not known for restlessness and they typically don’t get upset very easily. However, they are physically active and don’t fear heights. In fact, they’re often seen perching in places that have a lot of vertical height. Snowshoes are recessive cats, which means that they lack the domination and aggressiveness that many other cats-especially purebreds-have.

Other Things You Need to Know about Caring for a Snowshoe

The Snowshoe cat breed tends to do best as an exclusively indoor cat. Because of their gentle nature, they tend to be more vulnerable to predators and other types of attacks, which can infect them or worse. They also run the risk of being kidnapped by experimental scientists and/or by a thief who is looking for a unique cat but doesn’t want to pay to adopt one.

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