Posts tagged "cat breeds"

Sphynx 101

by Evan Jacobs (Subscribe to Evan Jacobs's posts): Feb 8th 2010 10:00AM Filed Under: Cats

The sphynx is easily the most recognizable breed of cat. Though considered hairless, the sphynx does have a layer of light fuzz over its body. Other than its unusual follicular qualities, the sphynx has other eye-catching features including a wedge-shaped head, large ears and often, a distended belly.

Sphynxes are not nearly as old as their name would suggest. Although the genetic mutation that results in their lack of fur is as old as genetic mutations themselves, the sphynx breed has only existed since the 1960s. Several naturally hairless cats were bred both amongst themselves and also with normal cats in order to create the genetically healthy yet consistently hairless medium-sized cat.

Being fur-free makes the sphynx an unusual cat to care for. They need to be kept warm, as their lack of fur makes them more susceptible to cold than a normal cat. They also require regular bathing because they don't have the fur that normally would remove oils from their skin.

Naturally extroverted, inquisitive, and intelligent, sphynxes are easy cats to love. They do well with humans, and always like to be the center of attention. A goal easily attained considering the breed's bizarre appearance.

Snowshoes 101

by Evan Jacobs (Subscribe to Evan Jacobs's posts): Jan 19th 2010 10:00AM Filed Under: Cats

Flickr/Stevevoght

The snowshoe cat is known for its strange pattern of coloring. In general, its body and musculature are average, its skull is a simple, equilateral triangle, and its limbs are all proportionate to its body. Its coat, however, is something unique, with white paws that travel up their wrists and shins, almost like long, elegant gloves. They have white faces except for dark, colored areas around their eyes, giving them a slightly raccoon-ish look. They have fluffy, white underbellies, while the rest of them is much darker, especially at the points.

According to the American Cat Fanciers' Association, snowshoes are a relatively new breed of cat, first discovered in 1960 when a Philadelphia cat breeder found her Siamese cat had given birth to three snowshoes. Although this strange mutation may not have been new in nature (there have been paintings of Snowshoe-like cats from ancient Japan and at least one photograph from 1890), this was the first time where a breeder decided to actually select for the cats with positive results. There had been a previous attempt in the 1950s, when cats exhibiting this pattern were called "silver laces."

Snowshoes have a very affectionate temperament and are best suited to households where they can get much attention much of the time. In fact, like their bodies, Snowshoes are very middle-of-the-road in their personalities; they're not too excitable, not too energetic, but just a healthy medium between the best qualities of cats.

Balinese 101

by Evan Jacobs (Subscribe to Evan Jacobs's posts): Dec 3rd 2009 2:00PM Filed Under: Cats

Sarahna Cats of Pennsylvania

To put it simply, a Balinese cat is similar to a Siamese cat, but the Balinese are less talkative and have long, silky coats. Balinese are traditionally round and full, with long hair all over. Since the breed's origination, some Balinese have bred strains that are more Siamese looking, with triangular skulls, lanky limbs, and blue eyes. What makes these cats strictly Balinese and not Javanese is that they come in seal point, blue point, chocolate point and lilac point. Any other color is a Javanese cat.

The Balinese breed first originated, like most other cats, as a spontaneous mutation in a Siamese litter, creating a cat that was generally Siamese in appearance, but had longer hair on its body and much longer hair on its tail. Still, the breed retains many Siamese qualities, such as intelligence and loquacity. When they first appeared in the 1920s, people called them long-haired Siamese cats. However, in the 1950s, two breeders took it upon themselves to make them an official breed, and coined the name Balinese to reflect the graceful movements of Balinese dancers.

American Curls 101

by Evan Jacobs (Subscribe to Evan Jacobs's posts): Dec 1st 2009 10:00AM Filed Under: Cats

Flickr/tanakawho

The American Curl is typical in appearance except for one small thing: its ears curl backwards towards the middle of the cat's skull. Otherwise, the Curl is a medium-sized cat with walnut-shaped eyes that comes in both short and long hair, and runs the gamut of coat and eye colors. They're born with straight ears that slowly curl as they reach early kitten-hood at around 16 weeks. Some ears end up straight, and some can curl to the point of actually reaching the back of the skull.

Not only is the American Curl a relatively new breed, it's so new that its history can actually be traced back to a single cat named Shulamith. She and her brother, Panda, found in 1981 by a California family, were the first kittens ever known to exhibit this dramatic genetic mutation. Although Panda ran away, Shulamith stayed and went on to mother the next set of Curls, who birthed the next set, and so on and so forth. In 1993, they were recognized as a breed by the CFA.

American Curls are endlessly curious and playful, even long into adulthood. Karen, a woman who owns two Curls purchased from the Procurl Harem Cattery, describes what it's like to live with them: "They are liberal with their love, not only sharing it with us, but with anyone who walks through our door. They make everyone smile! They are fantastic pets and truly a priceless addition to our family."

If you are interested in adopting an American Curl, it is best to do plenty of research (as always). Talk to owners, and go to a reputable adoption organization such as Purebred Cat Breed Rescue.

American Bobtails 101

by Evan Jacobs (Subscribe to Evan Jacobs's posts): Nov 30th 2009 3:00PM Filed Under: Cats

Petfinder

The American Bobtail is a relatively new breed of cat. It was introduced in the 1960s, and first recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association in 2000. The primary physical characteristic of the Bobtail is its short tail, which is usually one to four inches long. This large breed can have either short or long hair, which is bushy, rather than silky or dense, in texture. Bobtails have wedge-shaped heads, almond-shaped eyes, big, stocky limbs, and a large, broad body.

The American Bobtail's shortened tail is the result of a genetic mutation of the spine, similar to the genetic mutation that affects the Manx breed of cat. Although the Japanese Bobtail also has a mutation of this nature, it is genetically distinct from the American Bobtail, and not related in any way other than by species.

Because of this genetic mutation, some Bobtails are born with hip and lower-spine problems, particularly if their tail is too short, and require more medical attention that normal, healthy cats. Otherwise, they have no apparent health problems.

How Well Do You Know Your Cat Breeds?

by Rose Martelli (Subscribe to Rose Martelli's posts): Oct 2nd 2009 6:00PM Filed Under: Cats

Curiosity may have killed the cat, but if curiosity about cats is what you live for, then this quiz is for you! We asked a cat breed expert -- Kitty Angell, an All Breed Judge from the Cat Fanciers' Association -- to lend us her crib notes in crafting this cat quiz. See how well you can tell your Manxes from your Siamese!

How Well Do You Know Cat Breeds?

Classic, Mackerel and Ticking are all words that describe what cat characteristic?

Mating rituals
Tabby patterns
Feeding preferences
Meowing sounds

Birmans and Ragdolls are two breeds that sport white fur on their paws and the backs of their legs. What are these markings called?

Gloves and laces
Mittens and boots
Hands and feet
Fingers and toes

Why are Burmese cats sometimes jokingly referred to as

Learn more about your favorite breeds at the upcoming Meet the Breeds event in New York City on October 17th - 18th. For more information, visit MeetTheBreeds.com.

Cat Fancy! Meet the Top Breeds

by Paw Nation Staff (Subscribe to Paw Nation Staff's posts): May 1st 2009 12:00PM Filed Under: Cats, Photo Galleries

In our "Top Dogs By City" story, readers sang the praises of their favorite breeds: "Our pitbull is amazing; I'll never own another breed," said Tiff. "Why isn't bassett hound on the list? You can't get a more lovable family dog than that!" argued Solomeeo.

Cats, on the other hand, don't get the same respect. Instead of being called out as loyal, lovable or clever, kitties are most often described as aloof and independent. But don't dismiss pedigree! Just as in dogs, breed can help determine a cat's personality. American shorthairs, for example, are affectionate; sphynxes are known mischief makers.

Established in 1906, the Cat Fanciers' Association culls an annual list of the most popular cat breeds based on kittens registered each year. Persians, the breed that took the top spot in 2008, have been the most registered breed for decades. The Exotic, who many describe as the lazy man's Persian, overtook the Maine coon to strut into the number two spot. And Oriental shorthairs, with a selection of over 750 colors and patterns, continue to lock in 10th place.

Cat Breeds

Persian
Posh-looking Persians may be best known for eating Fancy Feast out of crystal goblets, but the regal-looking breed is surprisingly undemanding. Rather, Persians are gentle and playful with quiet, sing-songy voices. Their long hair and large eyes do require regular cleaning, but if you introduce them to baths when they are young, they'll acclimate quickly.

Exotic
Here, "Exotic" is a noun, not an adjective. Sometimes called "the lazy man's Persian," this shorthair has the qualities of a Persian without the high-maintenance hair. Since Exotics mature later than most breeds, they remain very playful as adults, and some are so friendly, they'll even sit on your shoulder and hug you while you pet them.

Maine Coon
After a Maine Coon named Cosey won the first National Cat Show in 1895, the breed exploded in popularity. Named for its mouse-catching skills up North, Maine Coons are ideally suited to New England weather, harsh winters and all. These gentle giants are extremely intelligent and loving, making them a great companion for children and dogs.

Siamese
Disney's animated feature The Lady and the Tramp famously spotlights two Siamese cats named Si and Am that sing, "There is no finer cat than I am." Many agree: The breed – easily recognized by its slanted, deep blue, almond-shaped eyes – is the quintessential "people" cat. They bond quickly and love to lounge on their owners' laps.

Abyssinian
The ancient Abyssinian is a muscular cat with large "bunny" ears. Widely considered one of the most intelligent breeds, Abyssinians love to be around people – although not necessarily on their laps. Instead, they like to follow their owners around and see what they're up to. Once they've detected your schedule, it may seem as though the Aby has you trained instead of vice versa!

Ragdoll
For those who want a cat that's more like a dog, the Ragdoll is an optimal choice. These canine-esque felines will run to greet their owners at the door, follow them around the house, and sleep with them. Most can even be taught basic dog tricks like "Come" and "Fetch." Another benefit: shedding is minimal – and in turn, so is grooming.

Getty Images

Sphynx
After the discovery that hairlessness is a natural mutation in cat genes, it wasn't long before a lineage of bald cats was bred. Now called Sphynxes, these felines may lack fur, but they more than make up for it in personality. Natural-born mischief makers and performers, Sphynxes will always keep you entertained -- but they're not much for snuggling.

Ardea / Retna

American Shorthair
Originally called the Domestic Shorthair, this breed received its new national name to represent its "All American" attitude. Indeed, these cats are low-maintenance, easygoing and affectionate. Although they can grow as large as fifteen pounds, they're extremely healthy and live longer than most other breeds, making them a great companion for kids and dogs.

Birman
If you prefer your pet a bit more divine, consider the Birman, long considered sacred in its home country of Burma. The silky-haired Birman is an extremely perceptive cat that happily adjusts to its owner's schedule: It will stay quiet and unobtrusive when you are actively busy, and snuggly and playful during your downtime.

Oriental
Those seeking an around-the-clock companion need look no further than the Oriental. This tall, slender cat will stick its nose wherever you are – whether trying to snatch a scrap of dinner or dive into your laundry machine. In fact, Orientals become so attached that if left alone for a long stretch, you may return to a cold shoulder. But don't worry -- they'll always forgive you; their loyalty is unmatched.

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Miniature Dogs

Miniature Poodle
Miniature Poodles, like all Poodles, are excellent swimmers who originated as a water retrievers. All Poodles, Standard, Miniature and Toy are actually one breed, just different sizes. Miniature Poodles, who can be white, black, apricot or gray, are usually 15 inches or under, according to the American Kennel Club.

David McKelvey/http://www.flickr.com/photos/dgmckelvey/3748491903/

Miniature Dogs

Miniature Dachshund
The Miniature Daschund, only 11 pounds or under, is not a separate classification of the Daschund -- it's just a smaller version of the Standard. The miniature dog, with its long bodies and strong sense of smell, are both hunters and lapdogs, according to the American Kennel Club.

Miniature Dogs

Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is of German descent and was originally bred to be a small farm dog. The most popular of the three Schnauzer breeds, the Miniature Schnauzer is a attentive, lively and a favorite among celebrities like Mary Tyler Moore and Bill Cosby. The strongly built miniature dog is between 12 to 14 inches, according to the American Kennel Club.

Miniature Dogs

Miniature Bull Terrier
Just like the playful Bull Terrier, the Miniature Bull Terrier, who originated in England, has a similar personality. Don't let its size fool you – the Miniature Bull Terrier is strong, energetic and audacious. Miniature Bull Terriers are between 10 to 15 inches and can be solid white or colored, according to the American Kennel Club.

Miniature Dogs

Miniature American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog is one of three separate categories of the American Eskimo Dog. Between 12 to 15 inches, the bright white dog is loving, protecting and sociable. Now a great companion dog, the miniature dog was once a circus dog, according to the American Kennel Club.

Miniature Dogs

Miniature Pinscher
Also known as the "Min Pin," the Miniature Pinscher is a German Breed whose ancestry includes the Daschund, Italian Greyhound and the shorthaired German Pinscher. The quick, curious dog is the perfect apartment dog. Despite its small size, the compact pooch makes a wonderful watchdog. The spirited miniature dog, about 10 inches to 12 1/2 inches, can be red, black, or chocolate with tan, according to the American Kennel Club.

Miniature Dogs