This feline breed is listed as one of the category VI breeds. under the clause 307.7 of the TICA rules (International Cat Association). The Chinese Harlequin Cat has, of course, the word “chino” in the name, but I don't think this cat is from China or a Chinese feline breed. The TICA, from what i see, does not explain the meaning of Category VI, except it's the lowest category. The first four categories are Established Breeds (category 1), Natural breeds (category 2), Variant Breed / Mutation (category 3) and Domestic Hybrid Breed (category 4).
The color pattern of the chinese harlequin is called Van. This pattern is also found in cats Turkish van, but this cat is long-haired.
It is a domestic breed, hair short, bicolor: a predominantly white cat, but with a black tail and black spots on the head and body.
The Chinese Harlequin Cat can be found elsewhere in China, but they are rare. They are accepted as a thoroughbred by the International Cat Association.
They are represented in a large number of ancient Chinese art.
It said that it was an attempt to re-create the old Chinese cat, a race that disappeared.
Character and skills
The Chinese Harlequin Cats they are known for their kind and sweet personality, and they are very popular as pets. Unlike many other cat breeds, this breed is very active and playful, and they love to play and explore. It also, they are very friendly and easy to train, so they are a good option for families with children and other pets. But, it is important to note that the Chinese Harlequin Cats require regular care, including proper nutrition, exercise and regular veterinary care.
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Shiningdiamonds by cattery - of the allerfeinsten.de
Content
History
At the end of the 19th century they appeared repeatedly in the paintings of Anton Julio Adán, call “Adam-cats”, in the from Henriette Ronner-Knip and in the work of Arthur Heyer strikingly similar this breed semi-long haired cats.
In this period there was no organized breeding of pedigreed cats on the mainland.
The German Angora cat was originally bred from semi-longhair cats bred and house cats by Mrs.. Aschemeier who retired from breeding in 2010 . Aschemeier always referred to his long-haired cats, as German, not as Angoras.
The German Angora cat was not recognized by any cat association.
The breeders of the Angora Alemán they claimed there was no German Longhair Cat genuine since they are extinct. They describe the German Angora cat as long-haired natural in the same way as al “Norwegian Forest Cat “, both are natural hairy breeds.
Was not up 2007, When were the hairy Germans recognized. The German Angora cat longhair and the German Longhair Cat they were synonymous with a race.
In 2007, the Council of administration of the Club German of cat Angora rejected this idea, that ended in a dispute that ended up dividing the Group of breeders.
The German Angora became a trademark and could only be bred by the German Angora Cat Club. International recognition has not been sought.
In the meantime, the German Longhair Cat is raised to meet the old image. Both breeds are described as very similar and both have crossed to the old style of the Persians to improve conformation and coat.
Physical characteristics
This breed has a silky hair, with a lot of background layers and do not tend to sticky. Your body is strong and robust (Cobbytyp). It has a round head and a powerful broad nasal bridge. The eye color should be green, but other colours are permitted. The tail is profusely covered and is intended to show long hair waving. All colors are permitted.
Character and skills
The German Angora cat is considered an active and playful cat, very people-oriented. In a group it is social and friendly.
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The German Longhair Cat it is the only long-haired cat developed on German soil
Content
History
The German Longhair Cat and the German Angora Cat share a tangled history, which includes a deviation through the Traditional Long Hair (Original), the European Long Hair and the German Forest Cat, before finally becoming a single race of “German Longhair Cat”.
The German Longhair Cat has waited a long time to be recognized internationally, although since 1929 there is a breed standard and a point scale. The only thing that was missing until a few years ago was a registered breed that corresponded to this standard.. After the 2nd World War, that interrupted cat breeding in Germany, the only indigenous breed of German longhair cat was considered extinct.
In the beginning there was the Cat of Angora which was imported to Europe. Through crossing with other long-haired cats it became the Persian, although the term “angora” became a generic term meaning “Longhair”. From the Decade of 1920, the preferred conformation in England and France gave rise to the cats we now call Persian Cats of “old style”, that is to say, they were “persian with nose”, as opposed to modern brachycephalic Persians (flat-faced).
Long-haired cats in Germany were generically called Angoras and they were raised for the color, not by conformation. Biologist and zoologist Dr.. Friedrich Schwangart (1874-1958) criticized that, in general, did not meet the standard “Hochzuchtperser” (“high-bred persian”) seen in british persians, so he created separate standards for the Persian cat and the German Longhair Cat in 1929, describing the differences between the two types. From that moment on, the breeders of “Angoras” had to decide whether to breed British-style Persians or more natural-looking German longhairs. Schwangart hoped that the German Longhair Cat, with your hair silkier and easier to wash, became the most natural counterpart of the Persian cat who had been raised in Britain for decades. The German Longhair Cat was exhibited and recognized for the first time at the national level at the Exhibition of the Federation for the Breeding and Protection of Cats in 1930 In Berlin. In the following years it was seen frequently in cat shows and in 1932, the German Longhair Cat “Rhine Castle Fox”, owned by Dr. Heine en Leipzig, became a federal winner.
With the standards established in 1929, the types of long-haired cats were divided into 2 categories in the “Classification, Pedigrees and House Cat Systems” and these were not to be crossed to maintain their distinct types (in Britain, the first Persian Cats, Angoras and long-haired british natives they had interbred to create a single Long haired persian). There was more information in the Schwangart post of 1932 “Training and breeding of domestic cats (results and problems)”, in which it was pointed out that other long-haired breeds were the german long hair founded by Schwangart himself and, in the previous two years, the Burmese breed appeared in Paris (that is to say, the Khmer / Birman).
In May of 1935 breeding was officially allowed German Longhair Cat under the auspices of the single state society “Cat Association of the German Empire” (German Reich Cat Club), which was the only breeding club at that time. It was grouped in the long-haired class along with the Persian Cat and the Burmese cat, and followed the Schwangart standard. In October of 1939 was recognized by the Confédération Internationale Féline (CIF) as “Borealis” or “Boreali” (“North”). The CIF was the predecessor of the Fédération Internationale Feline (FIFe) and had been founded by the Societa Felina Italiana, the Paris Cat Club and the Swiss Federation. World War II interrupted the breeding program and the German Longhair stagnated for several years before, apparently, to become extinct. After the Second World War, the DEKZV, the only cat breeding club in Germany until 1969, used the breed name again “Angora“. Until 1965, the German Longhair Cat (which lost most of its players during the war) and the Persian cat they were bred under the same name and the old standard, that he did not distinguish the races according to their conformation.
Unlike in the Persian cat, the German Longhair Cat was not sponsored by a feline association, possibly due to hostility between then-board members and Schwangart. In 1965, the name of the breed “Angora” He was removed, leaving only the Persian cat. The German Longhair Cat it was simply forgotten. When the german longhaired got going again, there was a debate on the name of the breed: ¿German Angora cat or German Longhair Cat? For a time, the German Angora cat he was raised like him Domestic long-haired cat, and the German Longhair Cat it was the traditional long hair (original).
Dagmar Thies reported in 1979 that Mrs.. Renate Aschemeier had managed to locate german longhair cats from original bloodlines and had bred them at the Blasheimer factory since 1968. These cats were considered very typical representatives of the breed and later their descendants would be useful in re-establishing the breed..
The German Angora cat he grew up with that name since the year 2000, but it was not recognized by any feline association and, on the other hand, it was a registered trademark. The breeders of the German Angora cat they affirm that there is no german longhair cats authentic because they have become extinct. The history of modern breeding of the German Angora/longhair cat began in the year 2000 with Dr.. With. Brigitte Leonhard with her long-haired white cat Shiva. According to Bettina Muenter, Shiva was born on a farm in September 2000. The conditions were very poor, but Münter got two white kittens: a strange-eyed white female they named Shiva and a male named Romeo. Unfortunately, Romeo's errant tendencies forced him to be castrated.
In 2001 came across a Burmese black cat x Domestic called Bommel, and then, in 2002, with a Persian cat blue. This sowed the seeds of the recreation of the “German Angora cat” that Prof. Friedrich Schwangart llamó “German long hair” (Deutsche Langhaar).
In 2003, la Sra. Münter bought two stallions British shorthair, and the lilac tabby “Alfons of Golden Kennel” (Rossini) played a special role in founding the German angora cat.
In 2004, Rossini crossed with Shiva and gave rise to a silvery blue torbie, Ashanti (later renamed as “Isis”), what happened to Britta Steckelbach, and a short haired sister named Askara. The Sra. Steckelbach crossed Ashanti with the British Longhair “Jo-Jo of Sandokan”. The two women decided to create a race, but after discussing it with an important association they decided that their ideas did not fit with established feline fashion, so they founded the “German Angora Cat Club” (GACC) in 2005 with other interested breeders who wanted to create a natural feline breed.
In 2005 there was a growing number of breeders interested in preserving or recreating the German Longhair Cat under the name of German Angora cat. They found foundation cats among free-range farm cats that approached the standard of German long hair de Schwangart. The herd book of the German Angora cat opened in 2005. The names of the founding kennels were Bettina Münter (“from the very finest”) y el de Britta Steckelbach (“of Mystic German Angoras”). (Although Mrs.. Munter claimed that there was no place for them in the established feline, Anneliese Hackmann, President of the German Edelkatze eV and the WCF, supported his vision from the start).
In 2006 the GACC was affiliated with the WCF and the development of the breed was more focused. Unfortunately, there were disagreements over foundation animals and breeding plans. The Sra. Hackmann suggested that breeders dissatisfied with the GACC move to Deutsche Edelkatze eV. In response, la Sra. Münter and Mrs.. Steckelbach recorded the name “German Angora cat” to prevent long mixed breed hairs from posing as German Angoras. Only GACC breeders could use the name. Breeders who had joined Deutsche Edelkatze eV needed a new name for their breed. They also rewrote the pedigrees so that the ancestors of the German Angora cat were retrospectively documented as German long hair. German longhairs obtained formal recognition (a sore point with the breeders of Angora Alemán), so the German Angora cat Happened to be called European longhair cat to gain recognition as a long-haired equivalent of the European shorthair cat.
Until 2007, when the German Longhair Cat, the Angora Alemán and the german longhaired they were considered synonyms of the same race. The German Longhair Cat was bred to fit the old image. Both breeds were described as very similar and both had been crossed with Persian Cats old-fashioned to improve conformation and coat. the Board of Directors of the first Cat Club of German Angora discarded the idea that they were the same race, which led to a dispute that divided the group of breeders. In 2009, el GACC (including its founders, Bettina Munter y Britta Steckelbach) applied for recognition of the German Angora, but it was rejected. Munter and Steckelbach tried to put obstacles to the breeders of the German Longhair Cat, but they finally lost in a legal battle.
In 2010 the German Longhair Cat sought breed recognition and several cats were evaluated at a Deutsche Edelkatze exhibition in Grefrath-Oedt. Unfortunately, WCF rejected application for recognition. WCF recognized the Traditional Long Hair (TLH, renamed as Original Long Hair due to trademark issues from a paper registry prefixing numerous breed names with “Traditional”) presented by South African breeders. This breed was an old-style Persian in the Silver and Gold color series. A WCF judge suggested that Original Longhair could be seen as a collective name for primitive longhaired cats and suggested that the Long German Hair should be considered part of that group. This was rejected by most breeders of the German Longhair Cat because the vision of Prof. Schwangart was that of a cat other than the old type Persian. A few raised and exhibited their cats as TLH, but many stayed with the name of German Longhair Cat.
The “Deutsch Langhaar” (DLH, long hair german), with its distinctive type and not Persian, was finally recognized by the WCF at the general assembly of 2012 with a revised standard that, However, still based on Schwangart's description. The few breeders who had tried to obtain recognition through the traditional way (original) long-haired could now raise the German Longhair Cat. In the same general assembly, WCF also recognized TLHs in all other colors.
In 2012, the breeders of German Angora cat they again requested the recognition of their cats, this time under the name of European Long Hair, and with the support of the Internationaler Royal Cat Club (IRCC) y de Mr Stein. The European Long Hair was recognized and the standard was the same as that of the European shorthair cat, except for fur length. Not all german angoras they met that standard. To accommodate the breed name change, The German Angora Cat Club changed its name to the German Cat Club. In 2013, the IRCC and the Katzenverein Leverkusen e.V. (KVL) agreed to treat the European longhair cat and to the one of German long hair due to their similar breeding goals and common ancestry. Ancestral cats were fully recognized without being considered “experimental”. Depending on the association, descendants could be registered as German Longhair Cat or European Long Hair. But, in 2014, Herr Stein revoked the recognition of the European Long Hair and, default, the German Angoras they became Long Hair German. The clubs associated with each breed eventually agreed that the two breeds were equivalent.. The German Cat Club (GACC) appears to be inactive since 2014 and in July 2015 there were hardly any breeders left “German Angora cat“.
Physical characteristics
By the standards of the time, both the Persian Cats as the German longhair cats they had a compact conformation, short sturdy legs, a broad head with a relatively short and wide muzzle and moderately small ears (similar to those of the European wildcat). Both had rather short, well-carried tails., level back and long coat (with age differences, seasonal coat and pregnancy to watch out for). And in both cases a type was not desirable “medio angora” with a slender body or a narrow, pointed face.
But, the Persian cat was described as thicker, with a rounded head and a prominent forehead that dropped sharply to a broad, short muzzle that gave an expression of “anger” (that is to say, a shorter face). The coat of the Persian cat it was denser and woolly, with a well developed collar, and cats were bred with size and density in mind. In contrast to the Persian cat, the German Longhair Cat had a more moderate head: a less prominent and tapered forehead that gently curved upward from a longer nose with a gentler slant. The conformation was less compact, the movement more fluid and the tail longer than that of the Persian. In essence, the German Longhair Cat did not allow the short face and prominent forehead of the Persian cat and in profile the face resembled that of the Short Brindle Hair.
The German Longhair Cat it was in the same colors and patterns as the Persian: monocolor/autocolor (black, blue, cream, Red and white), bicolor, tortoisehsells (with or without white), “More expensive” (colourpoints), smoked, Chinchilla (tipped), peach (smoky red / cameo), silvers and tabbies both “Tiger” (mackerel) as “marble” (Classic).
The description given for the "German Longhair Cat" it was that of a cat with a gently sloping forehead, not bulky or too round, traveling a flat curve or with a slight drop to the arch of the nose. Somewhat long nasal bridge, straight or very slightly arched. Wide snout, not pointed. This head is a companion of the S.H. Tabby. The structure is less rough, the tail is longer and the action freer than in the Persian”.
at his last job “Overview and description of domestic cat breeds” (1954), Schwangart described in detail the German Longhair Cat, pointing out the existence of intermediate forms between the Persian and the German Longhair Cat that were in some of the colors, and the need to eliminate intermediates to reestablish the 2 races as different from each other. It is clear that Persians they had grown up together, perhaps due to the difficulties of maintaining the races in times of war, perhaps to improve the traits of one or another breed or perhaps due to ignorance that they had originally been separate breeds.
Drew up the breed standard, though by then he might feel it was a losing battle due to the growing popularity of the Persian cat. In the German longhaired solid color, amber / yellow was the preferred eye color, except solid white cats, in which amber was allowed, blue or odd eyes. Deafness was a disqualifying offense in white cats, they were to be examined with a whistle out of sight of the cat. He also mentioned the potential for degenerative problems, like deafness, related to “albinism” (blue-eyed white was confused with albinism), so some indication that the cat was not albino was desirable, like a dark membrane. Bicolor and tricolor cats should have more color than white. To the cats “masked” they were allowed to be less symmetrically marked than bicolors or tricolors. This group included the hawksbill “black and yellow” and the “español” (tortoiseshell and white). Tortoiseshells should ideally have large patches of color, but Schwangart admitted that this was weird. In partial colored cats, eye color should reflect the predominant coat color. Chinchilla eye colors (black tip), peach colors (golden?), smoked and silver were related to the color of their fur (that is to say, in parallel to shorthairs and Persians).
In 2008 a provisional standard of the German Longhair Cat in the World Cat Federation, based on the standards of 1929 and 1954. It is the only long-haired cat developed in Germany and is the “sister” long-haired European short-haired breed, to which it resembles in its general conformation.
The modern standard calls for a medium-sized cat with a long figure, rectangular, robust and flexible. It is distinguished from European Shorthair / Celtic Shorthair for having a deeper chest and a bushy tail of medium length that is reduced to a round tip. The sturdy legs are short to medium long with large, firm legs.. The head is rounded, but it is longer than it is wide with a moderately long and sloping nose with a slight stop (a pronounced stop is a foul). Strong chin and cheeks, the latter suggest the Nordic breed of the European wildcat (F. silvestris silvestris). The ears are small to medium size, straight and broad at the base with a rounded tip. The eyes are round to oval, large and slightly diagonal; color is related to coat color / pattern (or with the predominant color in partially colored cats).
The coat is medium long on the shoulders and shorter on the head. It is longer in the flanks, the back and the belly, and it is particularly long on the gola, hind legs and tail. But, the coat is easy to maintain, shiny and not as woolly as that of the Persian. All colors are accepted, except for chocolate, the cinnamon and its diluted, the lilac and the tawny (both in solids and in drawings). Otherwise, colors / patterns include auto / solid, the bicolor, the tortoiseshell, the turtle and the white, the “masked”, el tipped, the cream, red, the smoked, shading, the silver and the mackerel and the classic tabby. Personality is human-oriented.
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The American Ringtail It is one of the newer breeds of cats existing without registering, It is at this time as a race in a pilot phase.
3rd Generation American Ringtail cat Chunky Monkey – Suemanley1, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Content
History
The cat American Ringtail originated a few years ago, When in 1998 a male stray cat was rescued in Fremont, California. When the cat grew up, it was found that he tended to keep his tail in a hunched position on his back. There was no deformity or physical defects in the animal, the cat did not seem to have any kind of discomfort while holding its tail in that particular way.
Soon, other cats in the locality were observed with a similar “ring” in the queue. After the genetic consultation, the final decision was made to develop these cats as the only formal breed. The original ring-tailed male was crossed with a short-haired female cat. Since then, several litters are born with the features that show the “Ring-tailed cat”. Originally called “Ringtail Sing-a-ling” these felines were called American Ringtail and they are currently on the road towards the full recognition of the bodies of registration of the feline breeds.
Physical characteristics
A relatively large size, the RingTail it is a long and muscular animal. Both sexes can reach a weight of 5 to 7 Kg. in adulthood. have a back long and strong. The skin is soft and silky and can come in any color or pattern. The color of the eyes is also not strictly defined at the moment. The tail it's straight with curls at the tip that fall down the back. The legs are medium-sized fingers linked by membranes.
"American Ringtail"
Spunky American Ringtail
The famous ring tail is due to two different genes that produce the ‘upright’ appearance’ and 'curved’ the tail. It is seen in certain wild cats and domestic, and even in purebred dogs. They are not associated with any health problem. Its own tail is muscular and broad at the base, well-developed bones are not fused. Cats have tails ring position when it is calm. It serves not only to balance the cats in movement, but also to slow down during a Chase at high speed.
Character and skills
The American Ringtail he is very kind and loving by nature. They interact well with children and other family members, They even developed a strong attachment with one person in particular, however they are a bit shy in the presence of strangers.
curious by nature, explore everything what they see in their surroundings and are particularly fascinated by water sources, perhaps a relic of his wild days when he used to quench his thirst by drinking from the backwaters in the wild.
Another “Wild” attribute, It is their habit of its food storage, hiding in different places of the House for food at a later time. For its unique design and beauty, these fascinating safe cats win the attention and fame to prosper as a distinct breed, widely recognized for years to come.
Health
Although their ringed tail does not cause any specific health problems, the American Ringtail you may experience some problems as you age.
Grooming
Grooming your cat is a great way to spend time alone with him.. The American Ringtail usually has a short to medium coat length. Their coat is usually easy to maintain and tends to stay clean..
Brush your cat about twice a week to remove any stains or tangles, or just spend some time bonding with him and develop your relationship. They don't shed much, but brushing helps keep their coat soft and shiny.
What is the price of a "American Ringtail"?
The American Ringtail can be challenging to find, as they are still thought to be a rare breed. But, if you can find a breeder of these kittens, you can expect to pay between 500 and 1.000 $. They are currently only recognized by the International Cat Association (TICA), but with the status of “Registration only”.
The Cyprus cat they are one of the oldest cat breeds in the world.
Content
Characteristics "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)"
Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)" you know certain factors. You must take into account their character, their need for exercise, their interaction with other pets, their care and if you have small children, their level of tolerance towards them.
Joy
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Activity level
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Kindness to other people
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Friendliness to children
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Grooming requirements
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Vocality
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Need for attention
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Affection towards its owners
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Docility
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Intelligence
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Independence
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Robusted
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History
The Cyprus cat It is a breed of cat native to the island of Cyprus, located in the Mediterranean Sea, south of turkey. The history of the relationship between Cypriots and cats is very old. In fact, during the excavation of a Neolithic tomb in the village of Shillourokambos in 2004, French archaeologists discovered a cat skeleton buried alongside a human skeleton, dating from about 9500 years before Christ. This discovery was even more important, as it is the oldest evidence of human domestication of cats.
Although the small cats had been present on the island for thousands of years, the race Aphrodite had benefited from many other influences. The first proof of this is found in the Life of Constantine, written towards the year 338 by Bishop Eusebius of Caesarea (235-369) during the reign of the Roman Empress Helen (250-330). It is said that the Roman empress Helena (250-330 d.C.) discovered during a visit to Cyprus that, after a drought 37 years, the island was infested with poisonous snakes, especially around monasteries located in dry and rocky areas. He decided to send hundreds of cats from Egypt by boat to regulate its population. The monasteries took care of the newcomers: they lived around the convents and the monks were in charge of feeding and caring for them.
This tradition continued for centuries, even to this day. In 1484, the Franciscan friar Francesco Suriano, recounting his trip to the Holy Land and his visit to the island and the monastery of San Nicolás de los Gatos, said “it's wonderful to see them, because almost all of them are mutilated by snakes; one has lost a nose, another an ear… And it is curious that when it comes to eating, to the sound of a bell, meet at the monastery; and when they have eaten enough, to the sound of the same bell, they all go out together to fight the snakes.
But not only the Romans brought cats to the island. It was invaded by the Ottomans in 1571 and then occupied by Great Britain in 1878. In both cases, cats were put on board ships to ward off rats and mice. When the ships docked off the shores of Cyprus, some escaped and stayed on the island, mixing and reproducing with the local population.
Most Cypriots have always resented the large cat population on their island. Cats were often abused, killed or poisoned with impunity, what is still happening today.
The beginnings of the breed Aphrodite
In 2005, by chance, an English cat breeder named Teresa Litherland moved to Cyprus. He was shocked by the treatment the cats received there, and at the same time he realized the very different and unique characteristics of many of them. They were large compared to European cats, with long and muscular bodies, hind legs slightly longer than front legs, long bushy tails, triangular heads and fairly large ears. A beautiful cat he named Cassidy and a female he named Lady came soon into his life as they entered his garden.. They were the first breeding pair to create the breed Aphrodite as we know it today. Next, set out to breed them to see if their characteristics were passed on to offspring. That's how it went, and this success convinced her to embark on an ambitious project: getting the Cypriot cat recognized as a breed in its own right.
Of 2005 to 2008, Teresa Litherland produced 4 generations of kittens. Some were big, long or short hair, others were smaller, mostly short haired. In 2008 met Andreas Mobius in Cyprus, international judge of the World Cat Federation (WCF) ⓘ, and presented them. They were all larger than the wild cats of Cyprus and had a truly unique appearance., both in its skeleton and in different features such as the ears, the eyes and the shape of the mouth. Andreas Mobius focused solely on the big cats and came to the conclusion that they did indeed have unique characteristics and that it made sense to continue this project with a view to gaining recognition as a Cyprus cat breed.. Decided to call the race Giant aphrodite in reference to its impressive size and the goddess Aphrodite What, according to legend, was born in the waters of the island.
That same year, in 2008, the Teresa Litherland se le union Lynn Nyland, a friend from England who was also touched by the situation of the local cats and who decided to help her carry out her project. She, too, realized that the best way to improve her situation in the long term, ensuring adequate protection, was to make the locals realize that they had a treasure, some cats that could be the envy of the whole world. the only way to do it, as difficult as it was, was to get the recognition of the race.
In 2009, they created the Cyprus National Cat Association (CyCNBA), that Aphrodite set out to promote. A few months after its creation, became a full member of the World Cat Federation (WCF) ⓘ.
As they continued their work, and still aiming to breed Aphrodite was recognized as a breed in its own right, they sent Dr.. Leslie A. Lyons, from the Laboratory of Feline Genetics, a letter of intent. Lyons, from the Laboratory of Feline Genetics of the University of California, Davis ((UNITED STATES)UU.), I take 248 cat DNA samples, mixing individuals from their breeding program with those they simply cared for. At the beginning of 2012, the geneticist concluded that they form a distinct and unique population.
They also opened their association to new members, whose breeding work they supervised with great care. The number of litters was a maximum of two per year, and they were strictly controlled. Those who did not conform to the breed standard were castrated, whether they had long or short hair. Others, intended for breeding, they were subjected to tests to check their DNA and thus preserve the purity of the breed. It also, since they couldn't afford to keep all the kittens, the two friends sent some to foster homes or kennels in Europe.
A few months after Dr.. Lyons will present his findings, the WCF officially recognized the breed as the Long Haired Giant Aphrodite. It was the first time that the recognition of a new feline breed was based on DNA tests.
In the news, the organization also recognizes the short-haired version as Short Haired Giant Aphrodite. But, refuses to recognize smaller cats as part of the breed.
With this, disagrees The International Cat Association ETHICS ⓘ, that in 2017 granted the breed recognition with preliminary status, prelude to full recognition. Decided to admit both varieties (long-haired and short-haired), as well as the giant individuals and the smallest (that usually have short fur). Like this, the name of Aphrodite covers no less than four possible combinations.
The fact that there were individuals with short and long hair on the island is related to the fact that Cyprus is partially covered by mountains. The cats that live there have adapted to the living conditions of their environment. Like this, the fact that they have an undercoat and long hair, allows them to cope with the very cold and snowy weather of winter. At the same time, their large size allows them to hunt larger and more dangerous prey, like big rodents, lizards or snakes. On the other hand, those that live on the coast have a shorter coat and a less dense undercoat, since the temperatures there are much milder. They are also usually smaller in size, like their prey, mainly city mice or rats.
The opposition between TICA and WCF continues until today. The other major organizations worldwide have not been able to settle the debate: either the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé), the American Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), the Livre Officiel des Origines Félines (LOOF) French or the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) British, they just don't recognize the breed Aphrodite.
The CyCNBA still exists today, and has expanded its missions to an awareness role in the island's schools, in order to teach future generations that cats must be protected and receive the respect and care they deserve.
Popularity of the "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)"
Although it is recognized by the World Cat Federation (WCF) and The International Cat Association (TICA), the international development of Aphrodite continues to be hampered by the fact that the vast majority of other leading organizations have not yet followed suit. The prohibition of crossing with other breeds imposed by the institutions that recognize it also contributes to limiting its development..
But, there are a handful of breeders in Europe, Asia and the United States that are members of the TICA and that they have decided to start raising the Aphrodite, either a giant or smaller race, short-haired or long-haired. But, this is not the case in france, Belgium and Switzerland, for example, where there are no breeders. In fact, it is still difficult to adopt a representative of the breed outside its island of origin.
In cyprus, the Cyprus Cats National Breed Association (CyCNBA) and the hatchery “Aphrodite” they continue to breed the breed.
The Cyprus cat comes in two different sizes: The Giant Aphrodite, whose length reaches 40-90 cm., while the smallest individuals measure 30-40 cm females and 35-45 cm males.
Although they differ in size, representatives of the two varieties share the same physical characteristics. Like this, this cat has a long and very muscular body, especially on the hips and shoulders. Your bone structure is very strong, without being chunky. It also, despite its musculature and bone structure, still quite thin, so it retains a certain elegance. The back is long and the neck is too.
♦ The hind legs are slightly longer than the front legs. The tail is very bushy and is almost as long as the body, giving a perfectly balanced morphology.
♦ The head is triangular in shape, with a small dome on the forehead and a long, straight nose and muzzle, surrounded by slightly hollow cheeks and dominating a strong chin. The ears are wide at the base and can be large or medium. They form an open V shape, with the rounded skull between the two.
♦ The eyes are shaped like oblong olives. Many different colors are possible, from very pale blue to brown, but they must have a solid tone. Color may differ from eye to eye: minnows are allowed.
♦ The fur of the Aphrodite can be semi-long or short, with an undercoat in winter that sheds in spring. The top coat is very soft and bushy, although its density varies with the seasons. Topcoat can be solid or bi-color. In the first case, there should be no white spots. Bi-colored plants should have an uneven distribution of the two colors. In any case, all coat colors are allowed, except mink, chocolate, the cinnamon, the fawn and the lilac.
Last, both large and small individuals are sexually dimorphic: the male can be up to a 25 or 30% bigger and heavier than the female.
Varieties of "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)"
The "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)" comes in nothing less than 4 varieties:
♦ Long Haired Giant Aphrodite;
♦ Giant short-haired aphrodite;
♦ Long haired aphrodite;
♦ Short haired aphrodite.
The "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)" it is one of the biggest cats in the world. Males are long or short haired, They measure between 50 and 90 cm and weigh between 6 and 11 kg. The females measure between 40 and 55 cm and weigh between 5 and 7 kg.
As for him Aphrodite normal size, males measure “only” of 35 to 45 cm and weigh in 4 to 5 kg, in front of 30 to 40 cm and 3,5 to 5 kg of females.
The TICA (International Cat Association) consider that they are all part of the same Aphrodite race, since they only differ in the size and length of the coat. The World Cat Federation (WCF), on the other hand, refuses to recognize the smaller sizes and keeps the name of Giant Aphrodite.
The Aphrodite has a gentle and affectionate demeanor, but it is also a live and very active animal, whether he's keeping himself busy or interacting with his owners.
They have an athletic body, they need to use to keep their balance. So, needs room to frolic, play or chase small prey. A life within the four walls of a flat is far from ideal for him: it is better to have a garden or access to the outdoors.
The aphrodite "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)"develops a very strong relationship with the people who care for her, they feed her, they pamper her and take care of her. Needs attention but is not possessive, enjoying their moments of independence and seclusion. So, must have places to do it, especially if strangers regularly come to the house. In fact, he is as sociable with his family as he is shy with her, preferring to hide rather than say hello.
On the other hand, gets along especially well with the children of the house, especially if they are old enough to have learned to behave with respect and delicacy with him, avoiding, for example, pulling or hitting his ears when playing with him.
A good option to allow you to spend your high energy is to share your home with another animal. Cats often enjoy the company of other cats, especially if they are as active as him. That your cat lives with a dog is also perfectly feasible, especially if they live together since they were little.
On the other hand, it is better to give up the idea that it lives in harmony under the same roof as a rodent or a bird, because the Aphrodite has a very strong hunting instinct. It also, during their outings, this activity is their main occupation.
Last, It is important to note that the "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)" does not reach full maturity until 4 or 5 years of age. Develops slowly and remains a kitten for a long time, both physiologically and psychologically. It is important to take it into account to take care of it properly: whereas an adult cat is quite independent, a kitten requires more attention and care.
Grooming "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)"
Both short-haired and long-haired cats should be brushed once or twice a week to remove dead hair and dirt., and to prevent knots from forming. Once this is done, you can use a velvet or calfskin cloth to give a good shine to his coat. How he loves pampering, will appreciate it even more.
In the case of long-haired cats, it is advisable to insist on brushing the collar, of the hollows of the front and rear legs and the tail to avoid knots. Without regular and rigorous maintenance, these become impossible to untangle, and there is no choice but to cut his fur. In this way, beauty and aesthetics would be lost, as well as protection against the cold.
Unlike other races, the "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)" only molt once a year: their fur falls out in large clumps in spring. Although this may be impressive, it's quite normal. Brushing helps keep the coat in good condition, but do not insist on it, as it can cause hair to pull out before it is ready to go out.
It is also absolutely necessary to clean his ears once or twice a week with a damp cloth., especially since it is easily prone to ear infections (otitis, etc.).
This is also an opportunity to brush your cat's teeth and check that there are no problems in this area. (caries, tartar deposits, etc.). Lack of dental care can lead to very serious illnesses, like septicemia.
Once a week, wiping the corners of the eyes with a damp cloth will ensure they stay clean, and thus the risk of problems in this area will be reduced.
To the Aphrodite he likes to run around outside and do his first steps in the trees. So, it is usually not necessary to cut the nails manually. But, you have to check them once a month and trim them if they get too long.
Health and nutrition
This photograph depicts a Cypriot cat enjoying the Limassol Medieval Castle by night. – CitrusFlowerTalk, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
As the "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)" has only been the subject of breeding programs for a few years, it is difficult to know which diseases you are most prone to. But, appears to be generally in good health.
But, is prone to ear infections, and rigorous maintenance of the ears is necessary to reduce the risk of problems.
They are also known to have a weak stomach. Thus, food choice is especially important to avoid, for example, repeated diarrhea.
As with any breed, regular veterinary control - in particular through the unavoidable annual health check of the cat- allows early detection of any disease and ensures that you are always up to date with your vaccinations.
Last, all organizations that recognize the "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)" (or at least some of its varieties) interbreeding with other breeds is prohibited. The goal is to keep this endemic cat from Cyprus as pure as possible.
Feeding of the "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)"
The "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)" not a difficult animal to feed: industrial foods available on the market are perfectly suitable, especially if you opt for quality products, which typically contain everything you need to meet your nutritional needs. Of course, you should make sure to feed your cat the right amount for his age, body size, activity level and health.
This cat matures late, between 4 and 5 years of age. Thus, although it is already large, it is necessary to feed her a kitten diet until she has a few 2 years, on all of you are not neutered.
When a change in diet is required, for example because a new product is needed due to age and / or unwanted weight gain, the fragility of your stomach makes it very important to avoid doing it abruptly. More so than any other race, this change should be made within the framework of a gradual and careful dietary transition, so that your stomach can gradually get used to the new product.
Given your level of activity, the Aphrodite not especially prone to obesity. But, remember that no cat is immune, especially if it has been sterilized. So, a rule of thumb for keeping your cat in good health is to make sure it doesn't have a tendency to put on weight, and not allow the situation to continue, since this would lock him in a vicious circle (the fatter a cat is, less wants to move). If weight gain is observed for several months in a row, you have to go to the vet, who is the only one capable of determining if the problem is medical (disease, medication, etc.) or is it related to the cat's diet (inadequate feeding and / or insufficient quantity).
Last, like any cat, it is essential that you have fresh water at all times, especially in hot weather. not a difficult animal to feed: industrial foods available on the market are perfectly suitable, especially if you opt for quality products, which typically contain everything you need to meet your nutritional needs. Of course, you should make sure to feed your cat the right amount for his age, body size, activity level and health.
For sale "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)"
It's hard to find a kitten Aphrodite to adopt, due to lack of breeders. The most realistic solution is usually to import one from abroad, and more specifically from your country of origin: in cyprus, the price can be around 900 EUR. They are also available in the UK for a few 700 pounds.
In both cases, transport and administrative costs are added to the price and, of course, it is important to ensure that the legislation on the importation of animals from abroad is respected.
Characteristics "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)"
Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Cyprus cat (Saint Helen cat)" you know certain factors. You must take into account their character, their need for exercise, their interaction with other pets, their care and if you have small children, their level of tolerance towards them.
1. Cypriot cat, Saint Helen cat, Saint Nicholas cat (English).
2. Chat de Chypre, (French).
3. Zypriotische Katze, Sankt-Helena-Katze, Sankt-Nikolaus-Katze (German).
4. Gato cipriota, Gato de Santa Helena, Gato de São Nicolau (Portuguese).
5. Gato chipriota, Gato de Santa Elena, Gato de San Nicolás (español).
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The Asian cat It is physically very similar to the European Burmese Cat.: only the colors of the cats' fur differ between the two breeds.
Content
History
The Asian cat It is a breed of cat native to England. Your name can be quite misleading. The first litter accidentally appeared in 1981, as a result of an inadvertent crossing between a Chinchilla cat, a variant of Persian cat, and a female European Burmese Cat.
The owner of the two cats, the baroness Miranda von Kirchberg, she was quickly seduced by kittens, what they looked like burmese but they had the silver colors of the Chinchilla cat. The following year, launched a breeding program to preserve the silver color of the Burmese kittens and named the variety as “Burmilla“.
But, breeders who participated in the program saw cats of many other colors. Some even had long hair due to their descent from the Persians. They realized they had a large enough gene pool to create a whole new group of cats..
The long-haired cats were called Tiffanie, while the short-haired ones were called asian. The Asian breed thus defined includes all colors and coats of short-haired cats that are not recognized in the Burmese cat.: striped, shaded gold and silver (both corresponding to the race Burmilla), solid black (a variety called “bombay”, not to be confused with race bombay), self, smoke, etc.
The race of Asian cat is recognized by the LOOF (Livre Officiel des Origines Félines), and its standard is common with the Burmilla and the Tiffanie. El GCCF (Governing Council of the Cat Fancy), the leading feline organization in Great Britain, he also recognizes it. But, a WCF (World Cat Federation) does not consider the Asian as a race in its own right, but as a variety of the European Burmese Cat.
The breed is relatively young, but it is developing rapidly and its popularity is growing, although it is not very present outside of Great Britain.
Physical characteristics
The Asian cat It is physically very similar to the European Burmese Cat.: only the colors of the cats' fur differ between the two breeds.
The Asian it is a medium-sized cat of semi-linear type, with strong muscles and a medium tail rounded at the tip. The front legs are slightly shorter than the back legs. They are both thin. They are very elegant, with a straight back and an athletic look. The Asian female is usually much smaller and less bulky than the male.
The head of the Asian cat wedge shaped, with a rounded forehead and slightly rounded top of the head. His ears are wide apart, they are wide and slightly inclined forward, with rounded tip. The cheekbones are high and the eyes are large, yellow to green, or more rarely gold with a silver border. The eyes have a rounded lower line and a slanted upper line..
The coat of the Asian is fine, short and bright. Among all existing cat coat patterns, can take three: smoked, self or tabby. All feline coat colors are allowed.
Size and weight
Size: 30 cm.
Male weight: 4 to 6 kg
female weight 3 to 5,5 kg
Varieties of "Asian cat"
El LOOF (Livre Officiel des Origines Félines) considered at the Asian cat and to the Tiffany cat as varieties of the European Burmese Cat, corresponding the tiffany the semi-long-haired cats and the Asian short-haired cats with a fur not allowed in the Burmese.
The Asian cat can be divided in turn into several varieties:
Asian Bombay, solid black fur, not to be confused with the Bombay, the breed of the same name.
Burmilla cat, that is to say, the silver and gold shade varieties of the Asian.
The same Asian cat, simple and not black.
Asian tabby.
Character and skills
The Asian it is a perfect pet. In fact, he is a smart cat, easy to carry, friendly and cheerful, that brightens the house with its simple presence. Similar to the Burmese, the Asian it's a cat that meows a lot, with a clear and powerful voice, and who knows how to make himself heard when necessary. But, even if you like pampering, not especially invasive.
It also, perfectly suited to indoor life, without feeling the particular need to leave home. So, It is a breed of cat adapted to life in a flat.
His temperament is very similar to that of Burmese, but less impetuous. He is also a very sociable cat, much more than him Persian cat, and he doesn't like to be alone for a long time. Very loving and docile, this cat appreciates the company of children, but also that of other cats or even that of dogs. They are very intelligent: for example, it is not unusual or surprising to see an Asian cat manage to open a door.
They like to be the center of attention and do not hesitate to show themselves. So, needs a master who is available and present, towards which he will not fail to show great affection, but will not ask for less in return. He can spend days following his master around the house., keeping you company while you do the dishes or sitting on your lap while you watch TV.
Consider yourself a family member in your own right. The Asian cat is very sensitive to the emotions of its owner and is an excellent companion.
Asian cat – Asian smoke (black) colour – Pigeon-camera, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Health
The Asian cat It, like his cousin Burmese, an iron health cat. But, some lines are prone to developing conditions that commonly affect Burmese.
These may include, may suffer a hypokalemic polymyopathy, a disease that causes periodic drops in potassium levels in the blood, causing severe pain and muscle weakness. This genetic disease is hereditary, but it can only be passed on if both parents carry the deficient gene. Thus, the breeders of asian cats they try to eliminate it by making sure that two carriers do not breed together.
There are also some cases of congenital malformation of the rib cage, that cause breathing difficulties in the affected individual. In the most serious cases, the disease can be fatal, but normally the cat's health improves over the years.
Last, the asian cats run the risk of developing diabetes in cats, which requires close monitoring of your diet.
Life expectancy
Of 12 to 15 years
Grooming
The short coat of the Asian does not require as much maintenance as that of long-haired breeds, since it comes off less. Brushing your cat once a week is more than enough.
And this routine is unlikely to turn into an ordeal: being a very affectionate cat, the Asian cat especially appreciates the petting and attention that grooming brings.
For sale "Asian cat"
The price to adopt a asian kitten round the 1200 EUR, for both males and females.
Characteristics "Asian cat"
Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Asian cat" you know certain factors. You must take into account their character, their need for exercise, their interaction with other pets, their care and if you have small children, their level of tolerance towards them.
The name of Abyssinia refers to Ethiopia, but most of the stories about the origins of the Abyssinian refer to Egypt. Investigation of its genes suggests that the Abyssinian cat breed originated near the coast of the Indian Ocean., where could settlers have bought the animal traders of wild animals. The breed was developed in Egypt.
The race could originate from an Egyptian cat named Zula, which was purchased in a port of Alexandria by a British soldier and brought to England in 1868. This theory is not established because there is no strong link between Zula and the first cat on the list named as an Abyssinian in 1882.
Many sources date the Abyssinian breed to be a few thousand years old., coming from the old Egypt , as cats that appear in ancient paintings. The ancient Egyptians made sculptures of them. There are also stories that “Abyssinians” savages living in parts of North Africa today.
Physical characteristics
The appearance of the "Abyssinian cat" resembles that of a small puma. They are elegant and athletic cats with long, small legs.. Wedge-shaped head sits atop a graceful neck and has large ears set wide apart. Some cats have tufts of hair on their ears similar to those of the lynx. The eyes, big and almond shaped, they can be green, walnut brown or amber. The specially colored coat of the purebred cat is short, soft and close to the body. Each of the hair is ringed in various colors, which creates a great effect. This so-called tic-tac can be pronounced in different variations.
The breed standard includes all four chestnut colors (bright copper red with chocolate brown bands), blue (warm blue-gray with dark steel gray bands), leonado (muted beige with dark cream bands) and the typical wild color (reddish brown with black bands). Of all the colors there is also the Silver variety, where the base color is a light silver shade. Ideally, cats should be completely free of patterns and markings..
Character and skills
The "Abyssinian cat" is considered an intelligent and active cat breed, who gets excited about any kind of game. Especially when he's young, the cat has an irrepressible temperament and a great desire for movement. Prefers to play with other cats, so it is not recommended to have it alone. These curious cats are very people-oriented and follow their humans everywhere. In doing so, they rarely become pushy with a soft voice and prefer to watch their two-legged friend's every action. When they get stressed, these uncomplicated cats react extremely robustly and do not let anything disturb them.
Care "Abyssinian cat"
Indoor or outdoor cat?
The "Abyssinian cat" it is an active and freedom loving breed that needs a lot of exercise. It's hard to be happy locked up in a small apartment. Secure access to the outdoors would be ideal for this active breed.. Walks in the enclosed garden or on the balcony give the cat a lot of pleasure. If neighborhood conditions permit, it is also a great outdoor cat.
How much activity does he need? "Abyssinian cat"?
If you purchase a "Abyssinian cat", you should not expect a well behaved lap cat. He loves to explore his surroundings, climb and jump. Thanks to its enormous resistance and jumping power, no part of the house is safe from her. A tall, stable cat tree is an absolute must for every cat owner.. Here you can live your desire to move, as well as sharpen their claws and rest. The clever velvet paws also rejoice in any kind of mental occupation and cheerfully accept intelligence toys. They like to be taught little tricks and enjoy going for a walk on or off the leash with their owner..
Care and feeding
Thanks to its short coat with little undercoat, cat grooming is especially easy. It is enough to remove the loose hairs from the coat with a rubber brush from time to time. When the coat changes, brush a little more often to soothe the cat. To be happy, cats also need a balanced and healthy diet. It is best to adapt the food to the age of the cat and its desire to move. There should also always be enough fresh drinking water available. A bubbling water bowl is easily accepted by most breed representatives.
For sale "Abyssinian cat"
Before acquiring an Abyssinian cat, you need to make sure you can offer this four-legged friend a species-appropriate home. Once the decision is made, it is best to buy the kitten from a reputable breeder from a registered breeding association.
Pay attention to the behavior and appearance of kittens and parents. For a purebred kitten with papers you pay a few 800 EUR.
Characteristics "Abyssinian cat"
Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Abyssinian cat" you know certain factors. You must take into account their character, their need for exercise, their interaction with other pets, their care and if you have small children, their level of tolerance towards them.
The American Curl not to be confused with Scottish Fold, having ears folded forward due to a mutation.
Photo: Wilkipedia
Content
Characteristics "American Curl"
Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "American Curl" you know certain factors. You must take into account their character, their need for exercise, their interaction with other pets, their care and if you have small children, their level of tolerance towards them.
Joy
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Activity level
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Friendliness to other pets
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Friendliness to children
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Grooming requirements
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Vocality
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Need for attention
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Affection towards its owners
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Docility
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Intelligence
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Independence
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Hardiness
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History
The American Curl was born in june 1981 en Lakewood, California ((UNITED STATES)UU.), when Joe Ruga saw two kittens in his garden on the way home from work and told his wife Grace not to feed them, to prevent them from being installed. Grace Ruga did the opposite, since he brought them food. It also, gave each one a name: the long-haired black female was named Shulamith, while his sister, white and black with semi-long hair, it was called Panda. An interesting feature of both females was that their ears were curved backwards.. But, at first the Ruga did not pay much attention to this feature.
Panda disappeared after a few weeks, and only Shulamith stayed with his adoptive family. A few months later, in December of 1981, gave birth to her first litter of four kittens, two of whom had the same curved ears as their mother. intrigued, Joe and Grace Ruga began to investigate and realized that these cats were not of any known breed. This was the beginning of American Curl, and all current representatives of the breed are direct descendants of Shulamith.
The Rugas were quick to consult Jean Grimm, judge of the Cat Fan Association (CFA) and breeder of Scottish Fold, who confirmed that this mutation was indeed new, but noted that it would be a long way to get recognition for a new breed.
In 1983, Shulamith was featured at a CFA feline show in Palm Springs, California, and the interest was immediate. A first standard was drawn up and many breeders decided to participate in the breed creation program by crossing kittens born from Shulamith..
At the same time, contacted two renowned feline geneticists, the Dra. Solveig Pflueger and Dr.. Roy Robinson, to study the genetic mutation responsible for the ears curled back American Curl. They quickly concluded that the mutation was a dominant gene, that is to say, that only one gene is required for the trait to occur.
The doctor. Robinson, settled in London, continued this study and analyzed 383 kittens of 81 litters before publishing a report in the Journal of Heredity in December of 1989, whose conclusion was to be paramount for the recognition of this new race: none of the cats studied had a defect, so the mutation was healthy for the animal.
But, the breeding program had started before the publication of this article, and the American Curl had already begun to attract professional and domestic cat fanciers, with unusual rapidity for such a new and still developing breed. The CFA allowed the registration of copies of American Curl already in 1986, and in 1988 the International Cat Association (TICA) became the first major organization to definitively recognize the breed, allowing its representatives to participate in feline exhibitions organized under its auspices.
In 1993, the CFA also definitively recognized the American Curl. It was even further, by recognizing two varieties in their own right: the American curl longhair and the American curl shorthair. Recognition of the latter is largely due to Shulamith, who gave birth to the first short-haired individual in her third litter, which showed that it was indeed the same race.
In 2003, the Fédération Internationale Féline (FiFé) also recognized the American Curl and its two varieties. But, some major organizations have not yet taken the step, in particular the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF).
Although the American Curl is now all over the world, it is in North America where it is still most popular. In particular, is in the middle of the pack in number of annual CFA registrations.
In France, with an average of about 60 specimens registered each year in the Official Book of Feline Origins (LOOF) between 2013 and 2019, the American curl longhair represents less than 0,2% of the feline population. The short-haired variety is even rarer., with only 11 specimens registered in the same period.
The American Curl it is a medium-sized cat with a rectangular and moderately muscular body. The legs are straight and proportionate to the rest of the body, and tail it is as long as the body.
The head it is slightly longer than it is wide, well proportioned and without sharp transitions. The eyes are almond-shaped and moderately large, are well spaced and set slightly obliquely. They can have several colors, without any correlation with fur.
The term “Curl” (“curly” in Spanish), does not refer to fur, but at ears, which are the specificity of the breed. They are wide and open at the base, while the tip is rounded and curves back at an angle of between 90 and 180 degrees. At least the first third of the ear is made up of firm cartilage, similar to that of the human ear. On the other hand, the rest of its surface is smooth and flexible.
It is important to note that ears of the American Curl are curved back, not “routes”: the line of curvature should be smooth like a circle, not steep like an oval.
But, the kitties American Curl are born with straight ears, then the cartilage begins to harden and they begin to take their typical shape. Its final shape occurs around the 4 months of age, and the breeder then determines the classification of the kitten:
first grade: slight curvature. The individual is destined to become a pet;
second grade: pronounced curvature, At right angles. The individual is destined for reproduction;
third degree: well marked curvature, in “Crescent moon”. The individual is destined for exhibitions.
The hair can be long or short, depending on the variety. In all cases, the texture is fine, silky smooth, and the undercoat is minimal or non-existent. It also, different standards accept all coat colors and patterns.
Last, the sexual dimorphism it is well marked, being the male larger than the female.
Size and weight
Male size: Of 22 to 28 cm.
female size: 20-26 cm.
Male weight: 3,2-4,5 kg
female weight: 2,3-3,6 kg
Varieties of "American Curl"
The American Curl it comes in two varieties: the American curl longhair (ACL) and the American curl shorthair (ACS).
Both varieties are officially recognized by the American Cat Fancier’s Association (CFA), as well as for the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé) and International Cat Association (TICA).
Character and skills
American Curl
The American Curl is known for his great sociability and affection for his family. He likes to follow his master around the house and snuggle up next to him. But, they are not very affectionate: they appreciate being caressed, but they are just as happy when they are around their family.
It is a breed of cat recommended for use with children: He gets along very well with them and often seeks their company., either to play or just to have a moment of tenderness. But, you have to be careful with younger children to make sure they know how to behave around a cat: despite his affable nature, to the American Curl does not like to have his tail or whiskers pulled, and can respond with a scratch.
Their sociability extends to other animals, and accepts the presence of other cats and / or dogs accustomed to cats without difficulty. On the other hand, coexistence with small rodents is not recommended, reptiles or birds: the american curl is still a feline, and his hunting instinct can resurface at any time.
On the other hand, the other side of its sociable nature is that it is a breed of cat that does not like to be alone. Homeowners who are away often find things spilled and / or shit out of the litter box: it's his way of letting you know he's not happy to be left alone. The presence of other pets is an interesting solution to partially solve this problem: if you have a playmate at home, being left alone all day while their owners are away is much less likely to be a problem.
On the other hand, the American Curl is moderately active, but he is a very playful cat. Although they reach maturity around 2-3 years of age, they retain their kitten behavior until old age. Some call them the “Peter pan from cats”. Thus, it is common to see a American Curl chasing a ball or playing with an object thrown by its owner.
You don't necessarily need an outside space, It is a breed of cat adapted to life in a flat. But, it is important to note that many American Curl They have learned to handle a door knob and do not hesitate to open doors and cabinets.
Whether they are confined indoors or have access to the outdoors, they like to be able to observe their territory from above: That is why it is quite common to find this excellent climber perched on top of a closet or on a curtain rod., or even on a tree or even on the roof, if you can go abroad. A tall tree for cats, where can i play, sleep and observe what happens around you, it is undoubtedly one of the best gifts that its owner can give it.
Last, the American Curl it's not very noisy, but he likes to show his affection by butting his head, a common habit among his older cousins, the Lions. As these displays of affection can occur at any time of the day or night, the master who allows his cat free access to his bedroom should expect to be woken from time to time by his little companion, who comes to rub against him to show his affection, before falling asleep next to him.
The American Curl it is a very robust cat breed. Thanks to its stray cat origins and a breeding program that has favored crosses with other perfectly healthy domestic cats, does not present any genetic problem.
But, some lines have a narrow ear canal, which is not a problem in itself, but it poses a higher risk of infection if the cat's ears are not maintained regularly enough.
Obesity is another risk, and a responsible owner must ensure that the cat is sufficiently active and not overweight.
Life expectancy
12 to 14 years
Grooming
The maintenance of American Curl is simple, since brushing once a week is enough to keep the coat healthy and shiny and avoid possible knots.
The American Curl molts very little in general, although the long-haired variety can shed a bit more when temperatures rise. So, in summer it may be useful to increase the number of brushing sessions to two per week to remove dead hair.
The brushing session should be complemented by a quick check of the teeth, eyes and ears to make sure they are clean.
You should also check from time to time that its claws are not too long, which may be especially the case if you don't have a scratching post available. If they are, just cut them with a nail clipper.
Food
The American Curl is not picky and can be fed commercial cat food, either kibble or cat food, without any problem. But, the food must be of good quality and adapted to their age and activity level, to provide you with the necessary nutrients and vitamins.
Like most cat breeds, are capable of self-regulation, so it is better to leave food at their disposal. You must also have access to fresh water at all times.
But, it is important to regularly check that your cat is not overweight: if so, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian to establish a feeding program that best suits his lifestyle and needs.
For sale "American Curl"
If you want to buy a American Curl, you should find a trusted breeder in your area. As the breed is not far outside its country of origin, you will have a hard time finding one. If there is no breeder association, you will have to resort to private breeders.
On the Internet you can always find kittens at a great price, But you have to be careful. Before buying a kitten, inform yourself well and also look at parents and siblings. You can get a healthy, purebred kitten from a reputable breeder for about 800 EUR. The price depends on the curvature of the ears. The more elegant the curved ears are, the more expensive the cat will be. Only cats with third degree ears, that is to say, a graceful curve like a crescent, can be officially used for breeding and exhibition.
