Meow-Cats

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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The Affectionate and Loyal Exotic Shorthair

The Exotic Shorthair combines the round face, sturdy body, and gentle personality of the Persian with a short, exceptionally dense coat. Large expressive eyes, full cheeks, small rounded ears, and a plush teddy-bear appearance make this breed instantly recognizable. Beneath that soft exterior is a muscular cat that is usually calm and affectionate but still curious, playful, and interested in family life.

Exotic Shorthair at a Glance

International name: Exotic Shorthair; officially called Exotic by CFA
Coat length: short
Country of origin: United States
WCF code: EXO
WCF category: 3 – Shorthair
Size: medium
Weight: approximately 7–14 pounds, with males generally larger than females
Life expectancy: approximately 12–15 years or more
Activity level: moderate; calm but curious and playful
Social behavior: people-oriented and happiest when included in family life
Affection level: affectionate, gentle, and often fond of sitting beside or on their owners
Notable traits: Persian-type appearance, short plush coat, large round eyes, quiet voice, cobby body, and the need for careful attention to breathing and eye health

History of the Exotic Shorthair

The Exotic Shorthair was developed in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s. Some breeders of the American Shorthair crossed their cats with silver Persians in an attempt to introduce the Persian’s silver coat color, green eyes, and more substantial build. The kittens had short hair, but their rounded heads, full faces, dense coats, and compact bodies no longer matched the established American Shorthair type.

Cat breeder and judge Jane Martinke recognized both the problem these unrecorded crosses created for the American Shorthair and the potential of the resulting cats as a breed of their own. In 1966, she proposed the creation of a new breed to the Cat Fanciers’ Association. The original suggested name was Sterling because many of the early cats were silver, but all Persian colors were accepted from the beginning, so the broader name Exotic Shorthair was adopted.

American Shorthairs, Burmese cats, and a small number of Russian Blues were used in some early breeding programs to introduce short hair, sturdy bodies, and dense coats. Once the shorthaired gene had been established, breeders repeatedly crossed the descendants back to Persians. The goal was not to create a mixed-looking cat, but a cat with authentic Persian head and body type covered by a short plush coat.

CFA established the Exotic as a breed in 1966, and the first cats competed during the 1967–1968 show season. The word Shorthair was later dropped from CFA’s official breed name, which is now simply Exotic. TICA and WCF continue to use the name Exotic Shorthair.

Why Is It Called an Exotic?

The word exotic does not mean that the breed came from a tropical country or has wild ancestry. The Exotic was created entirely from domestic cat breeds in the United States. At the time, the combination of a Persian face and body with short hair was unusual enough to appear genuinely exotic to breeders and show visitors.

The breed is sometimes informally described as a shorthaired Persian. This nickname explains the appearance well, but the Exotic is a recognized breed with its own registration code and coat requirements.

Relationship to the Persian and Himalayan

The Exotic Shorthair belongs to the Persian breed group. TICA describes it as the shorthaired equivalent of the Persian and Himalayan, differentiated primarily by coat length. The three share the same basic head shape, compact body, heavy bone, short legs, and gentle expression.

The Exotic is nevertheless more than a Persian that happened to be born with short hair. Its coat must have a distinctive texture and density. It is longer and fuller than the coat of most shorthaired cats, yet not long enough to flow over the body in the manner of a Persian coat.

Can Exotic Shorthairs Have Longhaired Kittens?

Short hair is genetically dominant, while long hair is recessive. A shorthaired Exotic can therefore carry a hidden longhair gene. When two carriers are bred together, some kittens may inherit long hair from both parents and develop a Persian-like coat.

How these kittens are registered depends on the rules of the particular cat association. They may be registered as longhaired Exotics, Persians, or in another registry-specific division. A kitten’s official breed designation therefore depends on both its coat and its documented pedigree.

Exotic Shorthair Appearance

The Exotic is a medium-sized cat with heavy bone, strong muscles, and a compact, cobby body. The chest is broad and deep, the shoulders and hindquarters are substantial, and the back is short and level. The cat should look solid and powerful rather than overweight. Males are usually noticeably larger and may develop broader heads and fuller cheeks as they mature.

The legs are short, straight, and sturdy, ending in large round paws. The tail is short and thick but proportionate to the body, with a rounded tip. All parts of the cat should form a balanced whole, without one feature appearing exaggerated or out of proportion.

Head and Facial Structure

The head is round, broad, and massive, with a smoothly domed forehead, full cheeks, strong jaws, and a well-developed chin. The neck is short and thick. The overall expression should be open, gentle, and alert rather than distressed or angry.

The nose is short and broad, with a clearly defined break between the eyes. However, a shorter nose is not automatically a better nose. The nostrils should be visibly open, the face should be reasonably symmetrical, and the cat must be able to breathe comfortably and quietly with its mouth closed. A severely recessed nose, extremely deep break, pinched nostrils, or chronic breathing difficulty is not a desirable breed characteristic.

Ears and Eyes

The ears are very small, rounded at the tips, and set low and wide apart. They fit within the rounded contour of the head rather than standing high or appearing pointed. Dense ear furnishings can make them look even smaller.

The eyes are large, round, open, and widely spaced, creating the breed’s characteristic sweet and slightly surprised expression. Eye color depends on coat color. Many Exotics have brilliant copper or orange eyes. Silver and golden cats may have green eyes, while pointed Exotics have blue eyes. White cats and some cats with white may have blue eyes or eyes of two different colors.

The Plush Coat

The Exotic Shorthair has a short, dense, soft coat with a rich undercoat. It stands slightly away from the body instead of lying flat, which adds to the cat’s rounded teddy-bear appearance. The texture should be fine and silky rather than harsh, woolly, or limp.

The coat is somewhat longer than that of a typical shorthaired cat, but it should not form flowing locks, a neck ruff, or a long plume. Its density can make the cat appear larger and rounder than it really is.

Exotic Shorthair Colors and Patterns

Exotic Shorthairs occur in an extensive range of colors and patterns associated with the Persian breed group. Solid colors include white, black, blue, red, cream, chocolate, and lilac. Tortoiseshell and blue-cream cats are also recognized, along with smoke, shaded, silver, golden, and chinchilla varieties.

Tabby patterns may be classic, mackerel, spotted, or ticked. Exotics also appear as bicolors, vans, harlequins, and calicos. Pointed cats have pale bodies with darker color on the face, ears, legs, and tail. Exact terminology and accepted combinations vary slightly among registries, but the breed as a whole has one of the widest color ranges in the cat fancy.

Exotic Shorthair vs. British Shorthair

The Exotic is sometimes confused with the British Shorthair because both breeds have round heads, sturdy bodies, and dense plush coats. Their facial structures and overall proportions are nevertheless quite different.

The British Shorthair has a longer nose, a less pronounced break in profile, and a broad but more naturally proportioned face. Its ears are generally larger and set higher, and the body is powerful without being as short and cobby as that of the Exotic. The Exotic has a more domed skull, smaller lower-set ears, larger rounder eyes, and a distinctly shorter nose. Its coat is also slightly longer and softer than the typical British coat.

Exotic Shorthair Personality

Exotics are generally gentle, affectionate, and people-oriented. Many follow their owners from room to room, settle nearby while the family relaxes, and enjoy quiet physical contact. Some are enthusiastic lap cats, while others prefer to sit beside their people. Individual personality always depends on genetics, early socialization, and experience.

The breed is usually less demanding and vocal than many highly active breeds. Exotics often communicate through their eyes, body language, purring, and soft occasional meows. Their quiet nature should not be mistaken for indifference. Most form close attachments and enjoy being included in everyday life.

Although closely related to the Persian, the Exotic is often described as somewhat more playful and inquisitive. Many retain an interest in balls, teaser toys, running water, and household investigations well into adulthood.

Activity and Enrichment

The Exotic Shorthair has a moderate activity level. These cats are unlikely to spend the entire day racing through the house, but they still need regular play to maintain muscle tone, protect joint health, and prevent obesity. Several short play sessions are often more suitable than one long and exhausting session.

Fishing-rod toys, soft balls, tunnels, food puzzles, and sturdy low or medium-height cat trees work well. Because Exotics are compact and heavily built, climbing furniture should be stable and easy to access. Play should stop if the cat begins breathing loudly, panting, or showing unusual fatigue, especially in warm weather.

Living With Children and Other Pets

A well-socialized Exotic can usually live peacefully with respectful children, other cats, and calm dogs. The breed’s easygoing temperament often suits a family household, but no cat should be expected to tolerate rough handling. Children should be taught not to chase, squeeze, or carry the cat against its wishes.

Introductions to other animals should be gradual. Each pet needs separate food and water bowls, resting places, litter boxes, and opportunities to withdraw. A gentle breed description does not guarantee immediate friendship between individual animals.

Is an Exotic Shorthair Right for You?

The Exotic may suit someone who loves the Persian appearance but does not want to maintain a long flowing coat every day. It can be a good companion for a quiet household, a family with considerate children, or an owner looking for an affectionate cat with moderate exercise needs.

However, the Exotic should not be viewed as a maintenance-free Persian. The dense coat sheds, the eyes may require regular cleaning, and the facial structure can create medical concerns when breeding favors excessively flat faces. Prospective owners need to value comfortable breathing, healthy eyes, and functional anatomy more than the flattest possible profile.

Grooming an Exotic Shorthair

The coat should normally be combed once or twice a week with a metal comb or suitable grooming brush. During seasonal shedding, more frequent grooming may be needed because the thick undercoat can hold a surprising amount of loose hair. Contrary to an old claim sometimes made about the breed, the Exotic Shorthair is not close to shed-free.

Mats are less common than in a Persian coat, but they can still form if the dense undercoat is neglected, particularly around the legs and belly. An occasional bath may help remove accumulated undercoat and skin oils, although routine frequent bathing is not necessary for every household pet. Nails should be trimmed regularly, ears checked, and teeth cleaned with products intended for cats.

Eye and Facial Care

The combination of large exposed eyes and a shortened nose can cause tears to overflow onto the face. The area beneath the eyes may be gently cleaned with sterile saline or a product recommended by a veterinarian. A separate clean pad should be used for each eye.

Persistent heavy tearing, redness, squinting, cloudiness, thick discharge, or rubbing at the eye should not be dismissed as normal for the breed. These signs may indicate irritation, infection, an eyelid abnormality, or damage to the cornea and require veterinary examination.

If the cat has facial folds near the nose, they should be inspected and kept clean and dry. Constant moisture can irritate the skin and encourage inflammation. Powders, creams, and antiseptics should not be applied routinely without veterinary advice.

Feeding and Weight Management

An Exotic Shorthair needs a complete and balanced diet appropriate for its age, activity level, and health. The breed is naturally broad and solid, but a cobby body should not be confused with excess fat. The ribs should be easy to feel beneath a moderate layer of tissue, and some waist should remain visible from above.

Because many Exotics are calm and food-motivated, measured portions and daily play are important. Treats should be included in the total daily calorie intake. A broad, shallow food bowl may be more comfortable for a short-faced cat, and fresh drinking water should always be available.

Exotic Shorthair Health

The most visible health consideration is brachycephaly, the shortened skull and face shared with the modern Persian. When taken to an extreme, this anatomy can be associated with narrow nostrils, obstructed airflow, noisy breathing, poor tolerance of heat or exercise, crowded teeth, excessive tearing, skin-fold irritation, and eye injuries. A healthy Exotic should breathe freely with its mouth closed and should not struggle after ordinary activity.

Polycystic kidney disease, or PKD1, has historically affected Persians and Persian-derived breeds, including the Exotic Shorthair. The disorder causes cysts to develop in the kidneys and may eventually lead to kidney failure. PKD1 is inherited as a dominant trait, and a reliable DNA test is available. Breeding cats should be confirmed clear, and kitten buyers should ask to see documented test results for both parents.

Persian-derived progressive retinal atrophy, known as PRA-pd, is another testable inherited condition. It causes early degeneration of the retina and eventual blindness in affected cats. PRA-pd is recessive, so a carrier remains sighted but can pass the mutation to its kittens. Responsible breeding prevents two carriers from being paired.

Shortened jaws may also result in crowded or misaligned teeth. Regular dental examinations and home tooth brushing help control plaque and gum disease, although they cannot correct a severe structural malocclusion. Routine veterinary care should include vaccination, parasite prevention, weight monitoring, dental assessment, and close attention to breathing and eye comfort.

Choosing an Exotic Shorthair Kitten

Choose a breeder who registers litters, supplies a pedigree and veterinary records, and is willing to discuss health openly. Ask for documented PKD1 and PRA-pd results for the parents and inquire about eye examinations, breathing, dental alignment, and the health of close relatives.

Observe the kitten while it is awake and moving. The nostrils should be open, breathing should be quiet, and the mouth should remain closed at rest. Avoid kittens with persistent wheezing, loud respiratory noise, open-mouth breathing, severely narrowed nostrils, heavy eye discharge, inflamed facial folds, obvious facial asymmetry, or a marked jaw deformity.

A healthy kitten should be curious, responsive, and comfortable around people. Clean eyes, clean ears, smooth movement, an appropriate body condition, and free breathing matter far more than an extremely flat face. A responsible breeder should be proud of functional, healthy anatomy rather than presenting respiratory difficulty as a normal part of the breed.

Interesting Facts About the Exotic Shorthair

The breed was not originally planned as a shorthaired Persian. Its beginnings came from American Shorthair breeders trying to introduce Persian silver coloring and green eyes.
Sterling was the first proposed name. The name was abandoned because the new breed was accepted in many colors, not only silver.
CFA officially calls the breed Exotic. The longer name Exotic Shorthair remains widely used by other registries and by the public.
Early breeding involved several shorthaired breeds. American Shorthairs, Burmese cats, and a small number of Russian Blues were used before breeders concentrated on breeding back to Persians.
Longhaired kittens can appear in Exotic litters. Two shorthaired parents may both carry the recessive longhair gene.
The coat sheds more than many people expect. Its thick undercoat can produce substantial seasonal shedding.
Exotics come in a remarkable range of colors. Solid, tabby, smoke, silver, golden, tortoiseshell, calico, bicolor, and pointed cats are all found within the breed.
The flattest face is not the healthiest or most correct face. Major standards penalize overtyping, breathing difficulty, and other signs that facial structure has been taken too far.
Exotics are often more playful than Persians. They retain the calm Persian temperament but frequently show more curiosity and interest in interactive games.

The Exotic Shorthair is a gentle, affectionate companion with a distinctive round face and a wonderfully dense plush coat. Its grooming is more manageable than that of a Persian, but responsible ownership still involves regular coat and eye care, weight control, genetic screening, and close attention to breathing. A well-bred Exotic should not merely look charming. It should be able to see clearly, move comfortably, and breathe freely.

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The History and Biology of the Japanese Bobtail Cat

The Japanese Bobtail is most well known for its unusual tail. The cat’s tail has a distinctive bobbed appearance which almost looks like that of a rabbit. This unusual bobbed look is where the breed gets its name.

A history of the Japanese Bobtail

Like many breeds of cat, the Japanese Bobtail has had a close relationship with farmers. In European countries this typically took the form of barn cats. They were used by farmers of all sorts in Japan as well. But the biggest difference came about in 1602. The surrounding years had seen damage to the valuable silk worms of the area. Various rodents had been causing serious problem to people involved with the silk trade. A new law was passed in an attempt to put a stop to the rodents.

In 1602 it became illegal for people to own house cats in Japan. The law had the intended effect, and a small army of cats was suddenly free to roam the streets. They made quick work of the invading rodent population. Eventually the law was revoked and people were free to keep cats within the home again. It’s theorized that this allowed people to select for some of the tamest and laid back cats. While nobody can be certain, it’s probable that people decided that cats with bobbed tails were particularly docile. This led to those cats with this unique mutation getting an early advantage over their peers.

This selection, and later selective breeding, might have been the origin of the Japanese Bobtail Cat. Because a hundred years later Kaempfer’s Japan gave Westerner’s their first description of the species in Japan. It reported the Japanese Bobtail as the norm in Japanese households. It also mentioned the fact that they were notable for their affectionate and laid back nature.

It would take a surprisingly long time to make its way out of Japan. No records exist of someone from the West owning a Japanese Bobtail cat until 1968. The first example of this import to the West came about from Elizabeth Freret. It didn’t gain full recognition as a competitive breed until the mid 70s. In 1976 the short hair Japanese Bobtail was accepted by the Cat Fanciers Association as a Championship breed.

Appearance of the Japanese Bobtail Cat

The Japanese Bobtail is, of course, most notable for its tail. It received its name because it has a distinctive bobbed tail. To qualify as a Japanese Bobtail the cat must have a tail which is both plainly visible and made up of curved articulations. The rabbit-like appearance is further accentuated by large and highly upright ears.

Biology of the Japanese Bobtail cat

On a genetic level, the breed is defined by a particular mutation in a recessive gene. This means that two Japanese Bobtails will always produce a kitten with the same body type. However, it’s very unlikely for a Japanese Bobtail to produce another of that type when mating with another breed of cat. It would be especially rare outside of Japan. Within that country the gene has propagated into more of the cat population as a whole. In Western countries it’s largely only present within the Japanese Bobtail population.

The propagation of the gene in Japan for such an extensive period has also led to an above average level of biodiversity. Many newer breeds come with associated illnesses. The Japanese Bobtail, however, is considered one of the healthiest and genetically diverse pedigree breeds. The only medical oddity that comes with the breed is a slightly higher level of heterochromia than other breeds. This means that the cats might have eyes of two different colors. However, this is a purely cosmetic trait and has no bearing on the actual health or eyesight of the cat.

Types of Japanese Bobtail cat

There’s little variation within the commonly accepted standards for a Japanese Bobtail cat. The biggest differences will be found with color. White calicoes are considered the ideal for the breed. But any combination of coat and pattern is acceptable within the breed.

Personality of the Japanese Bobtail cat

The Japanese Bobtail was originally selected for by Japanese homeowners looking for human friendly breeds. This might be why they have a strong tendency to take to various human centric activities. Most cats, for example, have a difficult time adapting to a leash. A Japanese Bobtail cat will typically take to walking on a leash far more easily. They also have other, similar, traits which are often associated with a more lengthy domestication. One of the more easily noted is a propensity for human audible vocalization. The breed usually enjoys making a variety of different meowing noises at people. The wide range of tone has actually led to popular folktales in Japan of the cat being able to sing.

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Thai Cat – Old-Style Siamese (Wichien-Maat)

The History of the Thai Cat (Old Siamese Cat or Classic Siamese)

In the early centuries, they wrote cat poems about the Thai cat and put into the book “Tamra Maew”. The history of the Thai cat dates back some 700 years to Southeast Asia. Commonly referred to as the Old Siamese cats they were known as Wichien-Maat in Thailand which means “moon diamond” or “diamonds and gold”. There is some controversy over the true nature of the Thai cat.

The controversy surrounding the Thai cat is that they are not a pure breed. Many consider them to be the old Siamese. The changes between the Modern Western Siamese and the new Thai cat took place, when the British brought the Thai cat to the UK with the expressed purpose of breeding a more appealing cat strictly for the purpose of showing.

These cats were bred in the temples, and they were worshipped as saints. The true breeding of the Thai cat includes more than one breed. The problem is the breeding history of the Old Siamese cannot be traced back more than three generation before the paperwork is listed as, “parents unknown.”

This creates more of dilemma to an already difficult situation. In 2007, the Thai cat breed was created and appeared under the, “New Breed,” category. One great thing to emerge from this debate is as of May 1, 2010, The Thai cat has champion ship status. Now the breed can register and take part in competitions with other breeds.

All available information suggests the Thai cat is the oldest breed of cat. They are also, sometimes mistaken for the Korat cat and the Modern Western Siamese. Each of the breeds has similar appearance. However, there are some distinct characteristics upon close examination show them to be three distinct types of cats.

Appearance of Thai Cat

The Thai cat and the Siamese cat are similar, and they have a common ancestry. They share the pointed gene. The Thai cat is often referred to as the old Siamese cat. Even, though they may have that common ancestry, the Thai cat is broader in features than the modern Western Siamese cat with longer legs.

Thai cats have incredibly beautiful blue eyes. Some of the colors available include seals point, lilac point, blue point, and chocolate point. They are elegant, yet robust. Thai cats have close fur that is fine and strong. Thai cats have heavier, more rounded body, and rounded head that makes it a heavier cat than the other cats.

Personality vs. Temperament of Thai Cat

The Thai cat likes to be around people. They love being affectionate and close to their owner, and they are openly friendly with other people. However, they require lots and lots of attention. One of the interesting things about Thai cats are intelligence. They are extremely playful and full of curiosity.

Because they have such a calm temperament, they are quite suitable for any environment. The Thai cat displays patient with children, and they are suitable for older adults. This makes it a Thai cat a good choice for a family pet.

Like all cats, they have that air of independence that can make them appear a little willful. Thai cats are very vocal. They have a high voice that can sometimes be mistaken for a child crying. They are ingenious and clever, and they are guaranteed never to be boring.

Thai cats are quite sociable. They are affectionate and love to interact with their owner. They will follow their owners everywhere they go. There is no getting around it. They are friendly other animals, especially if they are raised with them.

The Final Analysis of Old Siamese Cat

The Thai cat is truly a beautiful breed, and it is wonderful that the breed has received championship status and a true breed name. There are still some, who feel the Thai cat has been robbed of the original breed. However, the result shows that a cat with presence will always have presence, and it can never be taken away. This cat breed demonstrates the true heart of a champion.

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The Balinese Cat – An Epitome of Grace and Intelligence

History, Origin, and Traits of Balinese Cats

Originated from the Siamese cat, the Balinese cat is an American breed. During the 1920’s, longhair kittens were showing up in Siamese litters. They could not be used as a show cats and were sold as pets.

During the 1950’s, Helen Smith of New York and Marion Dorsey of California began a breeding program to produce longhaired Siamese. This began the evolution of the Balinese cat. Originally known as the longhair Siamese cat, Helen Smith felt the name didn’t flow well. Instead they were named for the graceful Balinese dancers.

As time progressed, breeders worked on breed variations. Today there are two types recognized. The Balinese and the Javanese. The Balinese male should weigh 12 to 16 pounds and the female should weigh 8 to 12 pounds. Its head is round (medium in size) with long pointed ears. Its eyes are almond shaped and deep blue. The Balinese’s body is long with a tall neck and long legs. The back legs are longer than the front legs. It’s coat is silky and about two inches in length. The Balinese has a long plumed tail. There are only four point colors recognized for the traditional breed. They are seal, blue, chocolate, and lilac.

The contemporary Javanese, carry many of the same characteristics as the Balinese. They differ in coat length and color. Other than the tale, the Javanese has a short coat and point colors of lynx, tortie, and cream/red. The average life span of both breeds is 10 to 14 years.

Beautiful, Intelligent, and Vocal

One cannot help but notice the Balinese cat’s immense grace and beauty. The Balinese cat’s gracefulness is topped only by their intelligence. On an intelligence scale of one to ten with ten being the highest, the Balinese cat is rated a nine. They have the highest intelligence of the longhair breeds.

The Balinese cat is a friendly breed. They are good with children and other pets. They will not allow being mistreated and may moan, growl, or hiss to show dismay. They typically don’t scratch when they are irritated. They like to ride around on their owner’s shoulders, help to read the newspaper, and have been known to carry on conversations. An owner should listen to their Balinese cat. If they are vocalizing for no apparent reason, the owner should listen. The Balinese cat may be alerting the owner to an emergency situation.

Training and Playtime

Balinese cats are easy to train. The owner needs to show them what is good and what is bad. They can be taught to stay off of counters and tables. They can be taught to use a scratching post instead of the furniture. To teach them to stay off of counters and tables, aluminum foil can be used in these areas. They will not like the sound or feel of the foil and they will quickly learn to avoid the counters and tables. Another option is to use a small squirt gun or spray bottle. Hitting or yelling at the Balinese cat is not an option. Be kind and gentle when teaching them.

Teaching them to use a scratching post instead of the furniture may already be done. Respectable Balinese cat breeders will have already shown them to use the scratching post. If not, sprinkle some cat-nip on the post. This will attract the Balinese cat to the post and they will leave the furniture alone.
Exercise and play are just as important as training. You don’t have to break the bank buying expensive toys for your Balinese cat. In fact, they will be just as happy batting around a twist ring from a milk carton or a ping pong ball. They will also be happy with an empty box they can explore. A paper bag will entice their curiosity.

Grooming, Food, and Litter

Grooming for your Balinese cat is less stringent than other long-haired breeds. Since their coat is not prone to matting, daily grooming is not necessary. To promote good skin health, you should groom at least every other day. Grooming can be done as part of play time.

The Balinese cat can be fed either dry or canned food. The proper ingredients for nutritional health are present in both foods: dry and canned. For the majority of their life, dry food is acceptable. When the Balinese cat reaches its senior years, consider using canned food. Older cats are prone to dehydration and using canned food keeps them hydrated. Although food choice is a matter of owner preference, litter choice is a matter of cat preference.

You may need to experiment with litter types. Start with inexpensive clay litter. Clumping and odor reducing litters may not work for the Balinese cat. They may not like the smell or may have a hard time scratching the litter to cover their waste. The litter box should be cleaned daily. A clean litter box does not smell.

Vocal, intelligent, and graceful are just a few of the traits of a Balinese cat. With the proper care, exercise, and training, the Balinese cat will give any pet owner years of enjoyment.

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