Overview of CAT BREEDS

Cats were one of the last animals to be domesticated. They were first found in households in Egypt about 5000 years ago. Today they are the most popular house pets, outnumbering dogs by more than two to one.

The earliest domestic cat was probably a Tabby, descended from the wild tabby cat.

The first cat show was held in London in 1871. There were 17 breeds listed at that show. Currently, there are 37 distinct breeds recognized in the United States.

 Though dogs were initially bred to do specific jobs, such as pulling, hunting or herding; cats have been bred for looks alone. Unfortunately, the desired physical trait that is bred for may carry with it undesirable defects.

Manx cats (which are tailless) for example often are born with malformed urinary tracts. Persians can have lethal defects of the eyes, nose and jaws. Both Persians and Siamese have a high incidence of cleft palate. Blue-eyed white cats are often born deaf and maybe sickly in general.

Coat type, longhair or shorthair, is the first level in classifying cat breeds. After that, each breed is divided into its accepted color classes.

The most common and most popular “breed” is not a breed at all, but the ordinary housecat, known as the domestic shorthair or the domestic longhair. They are also commonly called tabby cats, though this term actually refers to specific markings and coloration.

Of the purebred cats, the currently most popular are the Persian, Maine Coon and the Siamese.

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Cat Breeds: PERSIAN

Persian Cat - Photo by akk_rus 

Are you looking to get a new cat soon? Great! You may want to consider a purebred cat. There are many breeds that can be found in this country, each with its own characteristic appearance and temperament and history. Think carefully about what you would characteristics you would like to see in your new companion. Perhaps you would care to consider:

The Persian

A very ancient breed of cat, the Persian was first mentioned in hieroglyphs beginning at approximately 1684 B.C. The Persians' beginnings have long been lost to time. The Persian was so named for their ostensible country of origin, the great ancient empire of Persia which was located in around the modern country of Iran. The first known Persian cats to arrive in Europe were brought by an Italian traveler, Pietro della Valle, in the 1600s. Persians became very popular throughout Europe. At the first modern cat show, held in 1871 in London at the Crystal Palace, Persians were a featured breed. The show at the Crystal Palace, and the others that followed served only to increase the popularity of this already very popular breed. Queen Victoria herself adored blue Persians.

      Persians are a wildly popular breed. They are, in fact, the most popular breed of cat on the planet. Their long flowing coats and sweet faces immediately endear them to so many people. Their personalities are gentle and affectionate. They are strong creatures of habit and are most comfortable in secure environments with regular routines, but with gentle support, they can adapt to a more lively environment if need be. Persians are soft-spoken cats with pleasant and melodious voices that many people enjoy. Their expressive eyes charm people of all ages. Persians are built long and low with sturdy short legs. They are not big jumpers but do enjoy lounging in their favorite strategic locations. They can often be found beautifully draped on a sunny windowsill posing for the sheer pleasure of it. Friendly cats, Persians will seek attention, but not demand it. Persians have long been a fixture in an artwork. Their great beauty has earned them frequent roles in commercial advertising and in movies.

Persians need to be kept indoors, away from dirt and burrs that could knot up those beautiful coats. Daily combing is a must to prevent snarled fur and hairballs. Those huge beautiful eyes do tend to do a bit of tearing. Washing a Persians' face daily will take care of tearing. A well-bred Persian can be hearty and healthy. When properly cared for, Persians can live to be 15 years old.

      The Persian is an extraordinarily beautiful breed and comes in an amazing variety of colors and patterns. The registry divides their colors into seven categories: solid color division, silver, and gold division, shaded and smoke division, tabby division, particolor division, bicolor division, and Himalayan division. Each color and pattern exquisitely beautiful.

The Persian cat is an ancient breed whose winning ways continue to charm people to this day. They appear in a rainbow of colors and patterns, one of which is sure to catch your eye. Give the Persian cat a closer look. The Persian has long been a gentle, loving, loyal companion to many people over the years. This cat may be exactly what you are looking for in a new companion. 

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A Look At CAT BREEDS

Cat - Photo: Pixabay

Over the last thousands of years, cats have pretty much handled their breeding themselves.  In the beginning, they were used for one purpose - hunting and killing rodents.  As the years progressed, we began to breed cats more to our liking.  Nowadays, there are several different breeds of cats - which you can tell if you look closely.

These days there are over 70 distinct cat breeds, which are recognized through cat registries.  There are several registries that will recognize around 40 breeds or so, as they exclude the more domestic breeds such as tigers.  There are also many variations as well, including wild cats that have longer hair.

There are some cat breeds who have roots going back quite a bit in history.  Some Japanese breeds, such as the Japanese Bobtail, can be traced back more than 1,000 years in history.  These cats were very common and well known throughout Medieval Japan.  Now days though, they are all but a myth throughout Japan and the entire world.

The more common cat breeds that are found in North America include the alley cat, long-haired cat, and Persian cat.  Siamese cats are also common, although they are well known to be destructive and to have a foul temper.  Persian cats are very popular, proving to be loving companions.  Persian cats can be very expensive, depending on where you get it and what type of Persian cat it is.

Alleycats are the most common in North America.  There are actually several different breeds, although most of us just refer to them as alley cats.  They make good pets, although there are literally thousands of them in existence.  Cats are known to breed more than any other pet, and they will continue to breed until they are stopped.  Alleycats are among the most bred, as there are hundreds of thousands of cats that are homeless - and have nothing to do but breed.

The look of the cat is the easiest way to tell what breed he or she may be.  Some people choose to go by color, although the color isn’t as easy to identify.  Different breeds of cats have different looks, such as the Siamese and Persian cats.  Siamese cats are almost always black, and easy to identify by their color and their eyes.  Persian cats, on the other hand, are easily identified by their body type and their hair.

Over the years, there have been quite a few breeds come along.  Cats were one of the first pets, and easily one of the most popular.  Millions of people around the world own cats, with many people preferring a cat over any other pet - including dogs.  No matter breed of cat you get - you’re sure to get a pet who makes for a great companion for years and years to come

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ASIAN CAT Breeds

Adult female Balinese cat (siamese longhair)
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I would like to share with you today the cat breeds of Asia. The cats of Asia are unique breeds both natural and developed types. They have their own markings and personalities. Some of the breeds date back to ancient times when a cat was worshiped like a god.

The Balinese is a longhair mutation of the Siamese. The Balinese has a long silky coat, plumed tail, and Siamese markings. The Balinese's coat is white or cream colored with grey, blue, lilac or chocolate points. The Balinese is intelligent, alert, curious and fun loving.

The Birman, originally from Burma, was a sacred companion of the priests. The Birman is a large, long stocky cat with silky hair. Its' coat is light with darker points and white feet. The Birman is gentle, active and playful.

The Colorpoint Shorthair is a hybrid of the Siamese. The Colorpoint is very similar to the Siamese with a white or cream coat but has 4 times the point colors. The Colorpoint produces low levels of dander making it a good choice for someone with cat allergies.

A show-quality female Japanese bobtail
 looks attentively at the camera,
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Japanese Bobtail is a symbol of good luck in Japan. Originally from China, the Japanese Bobtail has been around for centuries as shown in ancient paintings. The tail is the unique feature of the cat. The Japanese Bobtail is friendly, active and intelligent.

Named for the island next to Bali, the Javanese is identical to the size of the Balinese but differs in coat color. The Javanese is highly intelligent and easily adaptable to its' surroundings.

Considered a symbol of good luck in Thailand, the Korat (or Si-Sawat) is a rare breed of cat. The Korat is known for its' green eyes and a keen sense of hearing, sight and scent. Its' coat is silver blue and multi-layered. Pricing of a Korat depends on its' bloodline and show history.

The Oriental is a very curious and intelligent cat. The Oriental's coat is fine and silky and can be over 300 different colors. The Oriental's body is sleek with a whippy tail. The Oriental is very loyal.

Originally from Singapore, the Singapura is a small shorthaired cat with large eyes and ears. Its' light beige coat is unique. The Singapura can have hazel, green or yellow eyes. The Singapura is intelligent, curious and playful.

Native to the mountains of Lake Van in Turkey, the Turkish Van is a desired breed due to its' rarity. Its' coat is white with semi-long hair. Its' eyes can be amber, blue or one amber, one blue. Unlike most other cats, they love the water.

Probably the best known of the Asian cats is the Siamese. Originally from Thailand (formerly known as Siam), the Siamese can be found in most parts of the world. The Siamese have short silky coats with almond-shaped eyes. The light coat with dark points makes them easily recognizable. The Siamese is intelligent, curious and loving.

When considering a cat for a pet, you may want to explore the attributes of the Asian cats. You can view pictures of the Asian cats at petside.com.

By Frank Loethen Frank Loethen, live in Georgia with my wife and three cats. Have 5 children a 4 grandchildren. Article Source: EzineArticles

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Information Regarding the CORNISH REX CAT

Cornish Rex - Photo by PJLewis 

Cornish Rex is a feline breed that was first reported in the mid of twentieth century in 'Cornwall' United Kingdom when a very unique looking kitten was seen in a domestic cat litter. This baby was a result of genetic mutation and displayed a singular appearance. It had no outer hair and a different body type than other cats.

The striking appearance aroused interest and breeding of this felid was started in earnest. Earlier efforts were not quite successful and it took some time before healthy cats with consistent attributes were seen regularly in litters. During their development, Cornish Rex cats were outcrossed with Siamese to give them the elegant body form they currently possess. Today they enjoy widespread recognition in most parts of the world.

Cornish Rex cats have a very lithe yet muscular appearance. They may appear somewhat fragile owing to their slender, almost hairless, bodies but are in fact quite hard and strong in their physical make-up. Legs are long and finely built and enable the cat to produce great bursts of speed in no time. Head is small with prominent cheek bones and big ears. Coat is incredibly soft and made up entirely of down hair, or the undercoat. They are curly and smooth and shed very little, leading to fewer allergies for their owners. A number of coat colors and patterns are seen.

Even as they are quite similar to the Devon Rex in appearance, there are certain differences between the two. First is the mutant gene that leads to the characteristic appearance of the Cornish Rex - this differs from the mutated gene of the Devon Rex. Second the Devon Rex has the outer coat of guard hair that Cornish Rex cats lack. Still the Cornish Rex coat is denser. Also the facial appearance is a little different, with the Cornish sporting a distinct Roman nose in contrast to the Devon.

Cornish Rex have one of the best personalities of all feline breeds. They are very active and energetic and continue their playful behavior throughout their lives.

By Omer Ashraf The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Cornish Rex cats. Article Source: EzineArticles

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The AMERICAN CURL CAT

Pointocurl - Photo   by     Nickolas Titkov (cc)

The American curl cat is easy to identify: They have ears that curve back and toward the center of their head. This cute little kitty is known for being very friendly and loving toward its owner, while also being trouble free health wise. They don't have many genetic diseases associated with their breed, require very little grooming and come in long or short haired versions.

The American curl cat has a personality just as unique as their ears. They're known for their cute, cuddly -- approachable facial expressions. Most people either love most cat's independent nature or hate it; the American curl cat is anything but independent thought and isn't an animal you want to have around for just a showpiece. They love attention and will go out of their way to get it.

Many owners believe the cat's mischievous personality comes from the fact that it actually takes them 3 years to reach adult maturity. Many breeds will reach maturity not long after they're a year old, but the fact the curl takes so long to mature means they have youthful exuberance well into their life and are known to live for a long time.

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The curling of their ears usually happens a day or two after birth and the ears will be permanently set or curled by the time they're four months old. The quality and value of the cat are determined after the ears have set. The more of an inward curl the ears have to make the cat's show capability better, as the curvature of the American curl cat is what they're judged on at cat shows.

Their personality remains intact regardless of their curl though and is well worth the investment to compliment your family. They are great with children and respectful of other pets in the home also.

By James V Lunden Find out more on American curl cat and read many interesting articles on pet health care. Article Source: EzineArticles

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The Legendary CHARTREUX (Chartreuse) CATS

The Chartreux cat's history is filled with legend although it only gained CFA status in 1987. One legend of the Chartreux says they lived with and were named for the Carthusian monks of France sharing in their famous Chartreuse liqueur.

Chartreux - Robe Bleue - Yeux Ors (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Recent research indicates their woolly fur gave them the name of well known Spanish wool in the early 18th century. Since naming for the appearance is common, this is probably the true origin. The presence of this natural breed of cat was documented as early as the 16th century, noted for its unique coat color and texture. The Chartreux adopted France, and France, in turn, adopted this intelligent, active breed.

Reputed to be a fine mouser, the well muscled Chartreux fits this description given it in French literature. The Chartreux's blue fur has a woolly appearance medium in length. A dense undercoat gives it the feel of sheep's wool.

This breed is known for its smile, created by a contoured forehead tapering into a narrowed muzzle. The Chartreux's eyes are among its most endearing features, with their outer corners curving upward. Colors within the breed range from gold to copper.

Chartreux kittens are precocious and kittenhood lasts until maturity at about three years old. Almost overnight, they develop into stunning adult cats. Brushing their double coat is not recommended, instead run your fingers through their fur daily and they will look beautiful and it will help socialize your cat at the same time.

Chartreux attach themselves to the family and will follow members from one room to another. They will respond to their name when called and even learn to fetch a ball. These cats are quiet, chirping rather than meowing. They are often fascinated with television and will try to take part in phone conversations inserting themselves into the conversation by distractions, such as cord pawing or chewing.

By Judith O'Connor JOC Freelance provides quality writing, blogging, editing and proofreading at reasonable prices with guaranteed on-time results. With more than 37 years of experience, we have proven skills of use to any organization wanting to improve its image with accurate copy quality in any of its printed or online materials. Article Source: EzineArticles

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Fact Sheet: MUNCHKIN CAT

Original title: Munchkin Cats - What You Should Know

Photo: PublicDomainPictures

The unusual look of the Munchkin cat does not in any way affect its confidence and outgoing nature. This cat breed loves wrestling with friends and playing just like any other ordinary cat save for the short legs that are unique to it. It has been dubbed as the magpie of cat species thanks to its habit of borrowing shiny small objects that it keeps away for later play.

Besides the cat's playful nature, it does have hunter instinct and it will definitely chase up mice and any moving objects. It however, generally prefers snuggling more than it does hunting. The cats are suited for home environments and have become popular pets for cat lovers.

General appearance - These cats come in different colors and they can have short or long hairs. All of the munchkins however, have miniature look and short legs. Their eyes are walnut shaped, round and big. They tend to maintain that kitten like appearance all through their lives, making them simply adorable especially by children.

The coats - Munchkins which are shorthaired usually spot medium-plush coats whereas the long haired ones will usually come with semi-long silky coats. With this in mind, the cats do not require too much grooming Brushing your long haired cat twice a week and short haired cat once every week is enough to keep them looking good.

The legs - Their short legs are the main identifying character. The short nature allows the cats to be extremely fast. The munchkins are amazing pouncers and sprinters but they do not jump as high as other breeds would. The hind legs seem to be longer than forelegs but even with the shortness they will jump on furniture and climb just like other cats.

The body - This breed of cats is small to medium in terms of body size. Most fully grown cars will weigh between 5 pounds and 9 pounds. But even when they small bodies, they are muscular and stocky. They may have short legs but they have a very normal physique.

The backs - Unlike short legged dogs which tend to suffer spinal issues, the munchkin cats do not develop any spinal problems even with their short stature. This is probably because a cat's spine is quite different from that of a dog.

Cat temperaments - Munchkins are pretty active and will constantly be exploring the environment around them. They love socializing with both children and adults, and will not use their claws as often. They are patient, sweet and gentle and love to be cuddled and pet. Their loving gentle nature however puts them at risk with stray dogs and cats. It is best that they are kept indoors for safety purposes.

Cat health - These cats generally live healthy, normal lives, especially considering that they do not develop any spine and hip issues. It is however still of importance to ensure that you get your cat from breeders with written health assurance. To maintain the overall good health, you should take measures to protect your cat from obesity issues; watch cat diet to help it maintain the appropriate weight.

By Shalini Madhav Munchkin cats are simply adorable and make amazing pets. Choose munchkin cat breeders you can trust when getting your cat so you get a top quality breed. Article Source: EzineArticles

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Welcome to the World of Affection Via TONKINESE CAT

'The words cat and cute are not only similar to hear but are quite similar literally as well,' said a former TV presenter. Like dogs, cats also have a special place in the drama called life. Cats, like happiness, come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. One such colorful breed is the Tonkinese cat.

Tonkinese Where the little fur rainbow across the forehead came from is unknown (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Like the Canadian hairless cat, the Tonkinese cats have originated from the lands of Canada. This is a medium sized cat breed, a cross between 2 beautiful cat breeds - the Siamese cat breed and the Burmese cat breed.

History of Tonkinese Cats

'History is a half right- half wrong fable agreed upon.' Same way, there are some instances which connect this recent breed to historical era of the 19th century. Some people believe that these cats often trace their roots back to the 'Wong Mau' miracle cat (a small sized walnut colored cat, courtesy - Dr. Joseph Cheesman Thompson, 1930). Most other journals and experts put the start of breeding as late 19th century, which is widely accepted. All in all, the exact history is debated but these cats aren't as old as some other species.

Name Game

This pet breed was earlier called as - Tonkinese which got later modified to Tonkinese. Origin of its name is the namesake island in the musical South Pacific. This fictitious island was special because there was no discrimination done to half-breeds and hybrids. These are commonly known as Tonks while promoting, and also during cat shows.

These beautiful Tonkinese animals breeds often find mentions in English novels, movies, documentaries and magazines. Known for their friendly nature, these pets are often classified as the perfect apartment cats. In general, these animals are lively with gregarious personalities and form one of the bubbliest pets. With an appealing individuality, the Tonkinese pets breed is often considered to have taken good qualities of both, Siamese and Burmese cat breeds. Even its meow is slightly different than other breeds, and its voice is often an epitome of affection. The Tonkinese pet carves and returns affection very openly.

The trim and the muscular cat appears lighter than what they actually are. They have the following physical features:

- Distinctive oval-shaped paw

- An adapted wedge shaped head

- Large ears which are almost set to the outside of their heads

- Muscular appearance

There are 3 main patterns in Tonkinese cats, solid, pointed and mink. They come in 4 attractive colors and their color pattern darkens with age. The solid pattern is the most common type of Tonkinese pet pattern around.

One of the major reasons why these cats appear affectionate is their curiosity; these Tonkinese puppies are unusually curious, even to the simplest of things like a human finger. These folks are playful and mischievous and like humans or other Asian cat species around.

These cats from great pets and many owners claim, there is a sense of pleasure when these are around. Cats, in general, emit happiness and Tonkinese ones are no different.

By Cody Holpp Article Source: EzineArticles

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SPOTTED CAT BREEDS

Ocicat "Charan" resting (chocolate spotted) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Are you looking to get a new cat soon? Great! You may want to consider a purebred cat. There are many breeds that can be found in this country, each with its own characteristic appearance and temperament and history. Think carefully about what you would characteristics you would like to see in your new companion. Perhaps you would care to consider something a little bit different:

Ocicat

The Ocicat were named after the Ocelot wildcat that is found from southwestern Texas south to northern Argentina. The Ocicat, however, does not have any Ocelot blood in them. They are entirely domestic bred. The first Ocicat was produced as a happy accident in the early 1960s by breeder Virginia Daly who was was trying to breed a Siamese cat with Abyssinian colored points. She did reach her goal, but in her second litter she found a cream colored male with golden spots and copper colored eyes. She named him Tonga. Her daughter called him Ocicat because he reminded her of a baby Ocelot. Tonga was later sold as a pet and neutered.

      Fortunately, the same breeding pair that produced Tonga later produced a second spotted male. His name was Dalai Dotson who became the foundation for the Ocicat breed. The first Ocicat, Tonga, was exhibited at a cat show in 1965. The Ocicat registry was established in 1966. The Ocicat was so striking and unique that other breeders were attracted and joined Daley in establishing this beautiful breed. The breeder continued to focus ion Abyssinians and Siamese for their foundation stock, but some American Shorthair was introduced as well. The American Shorthair bloodlines introduced a 

beautiful silver color to the ocicat.

      Ocicats are very lively and intelligent. They are also great talkers. They are loyal and loving and tend to bond strongly to one person. Ocicats are very intelligent and will make up new tricks to entertain themselves. Most of them know how to fetch. Ocicats are another breed that doesn't like to be alone for long. Again, a feline companion will be ideal for keeping your Ocicat happy.

      

 The Bengal

      

      Unlike the Ocicat, the Bengal has wild ancestry. The Bengal was produced by crossing the Asian Leopard Cat, a small wildcat with domestic shorthaired cats. The name Bengal was derived from the Asian Leopard Cats Latin name, Felis bengalensis. It took the original breeder Jean Mill, several generations to produce a beautiful cat with domestic and predictable personalities. 

      

      In 1985 Mill showed her cats for the first time. There was some controversy over the new cats. Some people felt it was unwise cross wild cats with domestics since many wildcats are threatened species. Most people, however, were very taken with the beautiful new cats. Mill was able to recreate a number of new Bengal breeders.

      

      The modern Bengal is a wildly beautiful cat with an affectionate personality and great energy. Bengals form strong bonds with their owners and become faithful and affectionate companions for life. Bengals love to climb and will do so given any opportunity. You will routinely find them on top of bookcases, doors and dressers. They are very curious and will rearrange the contents of any drawer the find open. Bengals are playful well into old age and will pounce an anything that moves. From their Asian ancestors, these cats inherited a love of water. Some will even join you for a swim in the 

pool or hot tub. 

      

These very unusual cats are not everyone's' cup of tea. Give these very different cats a closer look. Their unique appearances and lively personalities might just make a great pet.  These cats may be exactly what you are looking for in a new companion. 

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Cat Breed - AEGEAN CAT

The Aegean cat, a relatively new breed of naturally occurring felines, was developed in the 1990's in the Cycladic Islands; it is the only species of cat native to Greece. The Aegean is a relatively rare breed although it is prolific in number in Greece itself.

A juvenile male Aegean cat. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Aegean's are of average body size with a strong, robust build; its physique is sturdy and they have medium-sized feet and rounded paws. The Aegean's head is middle-sized, not-rounded and broad; with oriental shaped eyes that can be in any color of green.

Its hairy ears have a wide base with circular tips; the kink free tail is straight and of average length. The Aegean cat's semi-longhaired coat is without down hair; it sheds in summer to be of short length and during winter is thick and rich, providing adequate warmth for the harsh winter climate.

This breed's fur color is either bicolor or tricolor; white is always one of the coat's colors, taking up about half of the body and never yellowing. The other colors include red, black, cream and blue and the pattern is often banded.

Personality wise, the Aegean is bright and astute, with a pleasing nature that endears itself to people; as cats they are active and playful and make for very efficient mouse-catchers! They can be quite vocal and are happy to live indoors most of their lives. This is a very independent cat but they can be quite friendly too; often found roaming the local beach, these cats adore fish and will pester fisherman for some of the day's catch.

Aegean cats make great pets and are quite sociable, often living in small groups. They are a hardy breed that require little attention and minimal grooming.

By David Braybrooke For more informative cat articles, and a wide selection of cat products and toys, Please visit: http://fatherspirit-catablog.blogspot.com/ Article Source: EzineArticles

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RAGDOLL CAT History is Stranger Than Fiction

Flame point Ragdoll kitten
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The origins of Ragdoll cats are full of myth and controversy. This cat’s history is often contradictory and confusing; some of the Ragdoll story is just not possible. Other parts we know to be factual. First things first: the Ragdoll cat breed started in California back in the 1960s. It was founded by a woman named Ann Baker. The very first cat of this breed was for all intensive purposes a regular cat named Josephine. Ann Baker noticed something special about Josephine and her offspring.  

She decided to breed for this characteristic. Ragdoll cats get their name from the fact that they go limp like a Ragdoll when held. Ann Baker went so far to trademark the term Ragdoll; anyone who bred Ragdoll cats had to pay her royalties to use the name. 

It is for this characteristic of the Ragdoll cat breed that Ann Baker made her unusual claims. 

Josephine was once hit by a car. On one account Ann Baker claimed she had taken the injured cat to a local University to have her patched up; she asked the University to give her cat new DNA and this is why Ragdoll cats came to be.

Another claim the breed's founder made was that Ragdoll cats feel no pain whatsoever. The reason she gave for this followed suite with her previous claims that the cats were genetically altered and that they were in fact, alien hybrids. Move over x-files, there have been alien-feline hybrids on earth since the 60s.

Other claims made about this breed of cat are that they felt no fear, they are the ideal cat for people with cat allergies, and they do not have cat instincts due to the fact they are alien hybrids.

When it comes to myths about Ragdoll cats, ragdoll history is truly stranger than fiction.

Author: Louie Latour

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Exotic CAT BREEDS

To some people cats may all seem alike, despite differences in color or size. Certainly cats appear more similar than dogs, which range from the towering Great Dane to the tiny Chihuahua. But cats do have their own breeds within the species just like dogs, and each has its own unique characteristics. 

Imagine a cat that likes to swim, or one that's related to a tiger! Sounds unreal, but it isn't. Many domestic cats have been interbred with wild species to produce gorgeous and extremely intelligent pets. If you are thinking about a cat why not try one of these breeds?

Bengal

The Bengal breed originated when cat fanciers mixed a domestic cat with the Asian Leopard cat. The result was an extremely intelligent and beautiful pet. Bengals are often gray with striping or rosettes, and sometime have a gold dusting that looks like glitter. Bengals can mature at anywhere from 10-14 pounds, but some males reach larger sizes. Bengals are a very vocal cat, and will chirrup at things that interest them, and yowl when they want something. They also defy the idea that cats hate water. Bengals love water and some will even swim. Like a dog a Bengal will chase his tail, fetch for you, and walk on a leash.

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Chausies

The Chausie is a result of mixing a domestic cat and the wild jungle cat (Felix chaus). Chausies are also known as "stone cougars" because their solid light brown hide and head shape are reminiscent of a cougar. These cats are also larger than their fellow domestic cats, getting up to twenty-five pounds in some cases. Like Bengals, Chausies are very intelligent and like to play and walk on leashes. Chausies must be at least four generations removed from their wild ancestors to be legally owned, and some cities have restrictions beyond that. Check with your local government to make sure a Chausie (or a Bengal) would be legal and welcome in your town.

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Toyger

Imagine having a tiny tiger of your own! With the Toyger breed, it's now becoming possible. Toygers are actually the result of selective breeding of tabby cats; they have no wild stock in them. The reason the breed was developed was to create a domestic cat that resembled the wild tiger and would remind people about the plight of the great feline. Toygers are still being developed, but the choice members of the breed have dark pumpkin colored fur mixed with horizontal black stripes, just like a tiger! For the most part Toygers will act like other domestic cats.

Ocicat

The Ocicat is another example of breeding domestic cats to achieve and aesthetic look like a wild cat, in this case the ocelot. Ocicats come in also shades, from silver to chocolate, but they all share the spotting that makes them look so like their wild cousins. Some say Ocicats look a lot like the Bengal. Unlike the Bengal however they do not have wild ancestors, and behave more like your regular domestic cat, albeit with a gorgeous coat!

There are many other varieties of cats, some with long hair, some with no hair, and some with just enough. But whichever kind of cat you choose for a companion, remember that you are their guardian and provider. Good luck finding the exotic feline of your dreams!

By Michael Ron Puppies Long Island. Visit Worldwide Puppies and Kittens in Bellmore, New York, or call them at 516-679-7880 for more information. Article Source: EzineArticles

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