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Modern Siamese cat
Federations: TICA, FIFe, WCF, CFA, GCCF, CCA

With a history of several centuries, the Modern Siamese cat began to be recognized by national and international official organizations in the years 30.
Modern siamese
Self-made photo of Coco, sealpoint Siamese cat – Yannbee at Dutch Wikipedia, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Content

Characteristics "Modern Siamese cat"

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Modern Siamese 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

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Activity level

Rated 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to other pets

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to children

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Grooming requirements

Rated 2 out of 5
2 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Vocality

Rated 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Need for attention

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Affection towards its owners

Rated 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Docility

Rated 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Intelligence

Rated 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Independence

Rated 2 out of 5
2 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Hardiness

Rated 3 out of 5
3 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

History

The sophisticated Siamese takes its name from its country of origin, the kingdom of siam, which is now thailand. The oldest document that mentions it, the Tamra Maew, data of 1350 and was found in Ayutthaya, the capital of the kingdom since 1350 until 1767. This work is a treatise on cats, in the form of poems accompanied by illustrations. Some of the illustrations show cats with thin, pale bodies and darker masks on their faces., ears, legs and tails. At that time, they were cross-eyed and had knots in their tails, characteristics that only centuries later became defects that breeders were able to practically eliminate.

Legend has it that these cats were none other than the guardians of royal treasures, and that they watched them with such attention that they ended up squinting.

In Europe, it was in great britain, at the end of the 19th century, where the Siamese was first heard. In 1871, two specimens were exhibited in the first feline exhibition in modern history, held in the Crystal Palace From london. In the event catalog it was said that they were the first to set foot in the country, which is very likely.

However, they were not the ones who started the development of the breed in the country, but Pho and Mia, two specimens that Owen Gould, British Consul General, received in 1884 as a gift from the king of Siam.

He took them to Britain and his sister, Lilian Jane Veley, took care of them. He fell in love with these magnificent cats and decided to present them at the Palacio de Cristal Exhibition in 1885. Aroused great interest from the public. There are some photographs from this time that show that they were quite robust and had a round head.. They were the first two specimens registered in the British Register of Siamese, a register kept by one of the cat owners' clubs which had been in existence for several years and which were the forerunners of the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF), founded in 1910.

They died right after this exposure, but meanwhile they had given birth to a litter. Lilian Jane Veley continued to dedicate herself to these cats; with a view to developing the breed, came to found the Siamese Cat Club in 1901, the world's first Siamese breed club.

Among 1884 and late nineteenth century, many were imported siamese cats from Siam to Great Britain and enrolled in the British Siamese Register. In fact, the breed quickly gained in popularity among the English aristocracy; as a result of fashion, many of its members wanted to own one. In 1892 a standard was developed that defined the physical attributes that a subject must have to be admitted to the registry.

The Siamese arrived in France in 1885, when a French diplomat brought two specimens from Bangkok to the Jardin des Plantes in Paris. In 1893, the Dr. Oustalet, professor at the Museum of Natural History, wrote about the siamese cats brought by the president's daughter-in-law Carnot. He took care to describe them accurately and wondered if this race descended from a wild species..

The introduction of Siamese cat in the United States took place in 1879. The American Consul in Bangkok, after learning about the fondness for cats of the then president's wife, Rutherford Birchard Hayes, sent him a Siamese, who he called Siam.

The breed really took off in America in the early 1900s, helped by the lady's cats Clinton Locke. Founder in 1899 of the Beresford Cat Club, the first registry of breed cats in the country, bought a copy in France, Lockehaven Siam, which won the award for the best cat in America in 1906 en Detroit. He repeated this feat the following year in Chicago, this time with a female, Lockehaven Elsa. In 1909 a breed club was founded, the Siamese Cat Society of America, who published a first standard.

However, the breed's development was interrupted by the First World War, both in the United States and in Europe.

The development of Siamese cat in the United States it also owes a lot to Virginia Cobb. Originaria de Massachusetts, fell in love with the breed during a cat show at the Madison Square Garden of New York in 1928. He decided to import his first copy, whom he called CH Oriental Nanki Pooh de Newton. This female lived 17 years and had many litters.

In addition to being very active and involved in the breeding and distribution of Siamese in United States, Virginia Cobb was also interested in its genetics. In collaboration with Clyde Edgar Keeler, Harvard University geneticist, explored in particular the scientific aspects of different coat colors. The first known color of the Siamese had been the seal point, with dark brown tips and a creamy coat. However, as reproductions were made, appeared the blue point (dark blue tips and bluish-white fur), the chocolat point (chocolate tips, ivory fur) and the lila point (pink gray tips, White fur).

The Second World War was a second brake on the expansion of the race, especially in Europe. At the end of the war, the breed was even on the verge of extinction in Britain.

New blood was needed to expand the gene pool and advance. Once again, several specimens were imported from Thailand, both to Europe and the United States.

However, just like before the two world wars, the Siamese had difficulty adapting to the local climate, very different from the tropical climate of your native Thailand. Breeders in all countries faced heavy losses, mostly due to gastroenteritis and parasites.

This did not prevent the breed from gaining popularity from the decade of 1960, both in Europe and the United States. Many breeders and show judges began to favor a slimmer look. The latter began to gradually evolve, as breeding and selection progressed.

The Americans, in particular, they preferred a tubular and elegant body, as well as a long head. Englishmen, on the other hand, they gave priority to almond eyes, large ears and a little lower on the skull. In addition to evolving, standards also began to differ from country to country.

However, around the world, the Siamese got longer, with a fine bone structure and a narrow head. The breeders' work also made it possible to eliminate strabismus and tail knots..

This way of evolving the morphology of the breed was chosen by most breeders, since the beginning of the years 70. Other, few, they decided to keep Thai cat. With the passing of the decades, the gap between a Modern Siamese cat, heavily modeled by man, and Thai cat, corresponding to the original physical type of the breed and known as Thai. At the beginning of the Decade of 2000, the latter was finally recognized as a distinct breed by most official bodies.

However, the Modern Siamese cat has stolen much of the limelight and enjoys much greater popularity. This explains that she herself was at the origin of several other races:

The recognition of Modern Siamese cat

Modern Siamese cat
Modern Siamese cat – Wikipedia

With a history of several centuries, the Modern Siamese cat began to be recognized by national and international official organizations in the years 30.

The American Cat Breeders Association (CFA) was the first to recognize the breed in 1934. The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) did the same in 1936.

The Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé), that brings together the feline authorities of some forty countries, including Switzerland and Belgium, did the same in 1949. Ten years later, also recognized the Oriental shorthair cat, before doing the same in 1983 with the him Balinese cat, and then in 1985 with the him Oriental Longhair cat: these four races together constitute a group in their own right.

The Canadian Cat Association (CCA) recognized the Siamese in 1950, just one year after FIFé.

In 1979, the International Cat Association (TICA) also recognized the Siamese and included him in a group with the Balinese cat, the Oriental shorthair cat and the Oriental Longhair cat, who were admitted at the same time.

Popularity of "Modern Siamese cat"

In Europe, It was in Great Britain that the Siamese, and still today it is in this country where he is most successful. Still the most successful cat in the UK, ranking fourth in number of annual registrations in the British Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF), at around 1.500 a year. However, this figure triples that of the middle of the years 90, when the number of records exceeded 4.500 a year and was the second highest. The decline was especially marked in the second half of the 1990s. 2000, but continued throughout the next: early in the decade 2010 there was still more than 2.000 registrations per year.

In France, there has also been a decrease in both absolute and relative terms, and in any case the breed has never reached similar popularity levels. Nails on 250 registrations per year in the Livre Officiel des Origines Félines (LOOF), the breed is located around the position 20. In the middle of the Decade of 2000, this figure was rather 350 births per year.

In Switzerland, the Siamese has also lost part of its glory. After a peak of about 150 over the years 90, the number of annual registrations in the Fédération Féline Helvétique (FFH) steadily decreased, to the point that today it does not exceed 50 births per year. However, this places it around the tenth position in the statistics of the organization.

in Canada, it's even more discreet. In fact, the number of kittens registered each year with the Canadian Cat Association (CCA) places it around the position 25 of the ranking.

In United States, the Siamese was between 10 most popular breeds in the country in the early 1990s 2010, According to the annual registration statistics of the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA). Since then it has lost ground and is now around the position 12.

Physical characteristics

The Modern Siamese cat, a different looking cat Thai cat
Modern Siamese cat
Modern Siamese cat – Aleichem at Dutch Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Written in 1892, shortly after the breed's arrival in the West, the first standard of the Siamese lets us know what this cat looks like before breeders got involved. The Siamese he had a stocky body, a head round and eyes blue. It also, many of the cats were cross-eyed and/or had knots in the tail, what was not considered a defect at that time.

The traditional siamese has stayed quite true to this initial appearance, with its body and head round. On the other hand, decades of selective breeding have made the Modern Siamese cat away from the morphology of its ancestor and show more extreme forms: a body delgado, long and tubular, a head long in the shape of a triangle, ears very big and a tail very long and thin.

Therefore, it is quite legitimate that these two cats are considered today as two different breeds, Although they share their intense blue eyes. The work of the breeders has also made it possible to eliminate the problem of strabismus that affected both, as well as the crooked tail.

The appearance of “Modern Siamese cat”

The Modern siamese it is a medium size cat, lanky (Eastern) and elegant looking. Slim and athletic, they have a very harmonious overall look. However, he is quite muscular, which explains why it is heavier than one might think at first glance.

Its long body has a tubular shape, with shoulders and hips of equal width. Has firm musculature and fine bone structure. The tail it is long and fine and ends in a point.

The legs they are well muscled, long, slim and graceful. Hind legs are slightly longer than front legs. Both end in small, oval feet.

The head it is medium size, long, triangular, wedge-shaped and rests on a neck long and thin. The skull and the forehead are flat or very slightly rounded. More concretely, three types of profiles are accepted: straight, slightly convex or in two planes (the plane of the forehead is prolonged with that of the nose, but without a clear break between the two).

The ears they are very big, wide at the base and prolong the triangular shape of the head.

The eyes they are moderately large, macaroons, far apart and deep blue. They can be vairones (one green eye and one blue) in individuals whose fur is particular. Some individuals have both green eyes, but they are not recognized by the norms established by the different official organisms.

The cheeks are flat and dewlap is only allowed in adult males.

The nose it's long and straight, fitting perfectly into the triangle of the face. Its tip should not be narrow. Master medium-sized jaws and a strong chin.

The fur of the Siamese it's closed, shiny and silky. Consists only of an outer coat: this cat doesn't have undercoat. It also, It colourpoint, which means you have a darker mask on your face and ears, as well as on the legs and tail. This makes it look like he's ready to go to a costume party.

The rest of the body color is uniform, with a clear contrast between the body and the extremities, except for kittens. Kittens are born with slightly colored tips, that darken in the following weeks.

The most common combination is seal point: the tips are dark brown and the rest of the body is cream colored. The blue point it is also quite common, with a bluish-white fur and dark blue tips.
Most official agencies accept all color points. It is the case of the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé), the International Cat Association (TICA), the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) en el Reino Unido, the Association Féline Canadienne (AFC) or the Livre Officiel des Origines Félines (LOOF) in France.

The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) is more restrictive, since it only accepts 4 combinations:
  • The seal point: cream to fawn coat, seal points (dark brown), dark brown pads;
  • The chocolat point : ivory cloak, chocolate dots, pink pads and skin of the nose;
  • The blue point: bluish white cloak, dark blue tips, slate-colored nose pads and skin;
  • The lila point: White fur, lilac tips (grey pink), pink and leather nose pads.

Selective albinism in the Siamese

Modern Siamese cat
Male siamese cat red tabby point. name: By Aristotle Mike DelfinoKamée, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Although the morphology of the Modern Siamese cat has been partially modified by breeders, still basically a natural breed, that was not created by man. In particular, his dark mask on his face, the ears, legs and tail is due to a spontaneous and fairly benign genetic abnormality. This specificity was already visible in the first representations of this cat, dating back several centuries, and it was also found in all individuals imported in the 19th century to Europe and the United States. It is also present in the Thai cat.

It is related to the fact that all Siamese they have the albino gene. This gene encodes a heat-sensitive enzyme, that is to say, is active at low temperatures, but inactive at high temperatures. This explains that the main part of the body, the warmest, be light in color, while the coldest extremities, like ears, the face, legs and tail, They are darker.

The environment affects this thermosensitivity. When the kittens are born, they have a completely light color because the temperature in the uterus is constant and elevated. Their limbs begin to darken within a few weeks, and show their final color when they are about a year old.

This genetic trait also explains why individuals living in warmer climate countries tend to be lighter than those living in colder regions.. This phenomenon also occurs in other breeds colourpoint, as the Balinese cat or the Himalayan cat.

Size and weight

  • Male size: 30 cm.
  • female size: 30 cm.
  • Male weight: 2-6 kg
  • female weight: 2-6 kg

Breed standard

The breed standards are documents established by official bodies that list the conditions that a dog must meet. Modern Siamese cat to be fully recognized as belonging to the race:

Varieties "Modern Siamese cat"

"Modern Siamese cat"

Gato Siamés moderno
Chat siamois bleu pointEdenvane, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Although not all of them are necessarily recognized by all feline organizations, or are sometimes considered as simple varieties, the Siamese was the origin of several other races, developed from the years 50:

However, Things have changed since then, since some organizations now prohibit the breeding of a Siamese with a representative of another race. This is the position of the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) and the Canadian Cat Association (CCA).

On the other hand, other associations authorize marriages with some other races of the same group, in order to expand the gene pool.

Like this, the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé), as well as the International Cat Association (TICA), accept matings with :

In France, the Official Book of Feline Origins (LOOF) authorizes people with :

Last, the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) authorizes the mating of the Siamese with :

Character and skills

Modern Siamese cat
Male siamese cat Lilac Point, modern type. Name: Freaky Curry vom Elzer BergMartin Bahmann, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Although their appearance differs, the Modern Siamese cat has a character very similar to Thai cat, although the latter is sometimes presented as a little more sociable.

It is a very affectionate cat, who loves to live as a family. However, it is better if the owner likes cats with a strong character. In effect, he is passionate about the person he considers his human of reference, and establish a very strong relationship with him. He is fully involved in the life of his protector, follows him in all his movements, sleep next to him, leans on his knees in quiet moments… He is totally devoted and faithful to him. Therefore, he is quite a demanding cat: to be fully happy, the Modern Siamese cat needs a master willing to dedicate time, interest, honey and, sometimes, patience.

The downside is that they quickly become possessive and protest if they don't get the attention they expect.. He is very sure of himself, even moody and impatient: you like your requests to be answered quickly, and if you don't get the answer you want, does not hesitate to express his point of view with meows that only cease when he gets his way.

Although it is clear that he has his favorite human, the Modern Siamese cat usually have a good relationship with other people in the family, especially if they surround you with their presence, they caress him and play with him. This is because they help meet your need for care.. However, It may happen that you feel a certain dislike for one of the members of the house and do not hesitate to show it, dismissively ignoring him and refusing to interact with him.

He gets along very well with children and is a very good playmate for them (and vice versa), as long as they treat you with respect. However, remember that a small child should never be left alone with a cat without adult supervision. This is valid regardless of the breed of the cat, for the safety of both parties.

Affectionate with his family, this cat is on the other hand very suspicious of strangers. If a stranger walks in “their” House, prefers to stand aside and observe the situation from above, for example from the top of your cat tree, an essential accessory.

On the other hand, his proximity to family means that he does not appreciate loneliness at all. Not recommended for people who are out most of the day.

In addition to leaving toys to distract him, a solution to make the absences of their masters more bearable may be to make them share their home with a fellow man. In fact, cohabits easily with another cat and is glad to have an additional playmate and partner in crime. This also prevents you from finding other things to do, how to shred paper towels, what he does with some relish.

It is also usually a cat that gets along well with dogs, although this, of course, it also depends on the compatibility of your partner with the feline species. In any case, things go better if coexistence is instituted from an early age. Otherwise, it is better to ensure that the contact is made gradually.

It is much riskier to have a bird or a small rodent living next to you, since his hunting instinct can be awakened at any time. If the situation presents itself, some vigilance is required. For example, if you are out, the small animal should be kept in a place inaccessible to the cat.

Athletic and energetic, the Modern Siamese cat need to be active. It is imperative that I can run, but this does not necessarily mean that living in a flat is impossible for him, as long as the house is big enough. Especially since it is very possible to teach him to walk on a leash; you are likely to enjoy those outings, since he shares them with his master. However, Ideally, a cat flap would allow you to leave the house whenever you wanted..

In any case, you have to satisfy your urgent need to scratch. If there is no scratching post in the house or garden, will not hesitate to use the furniture or curtains.

Games are essential for him too, both to exercise and to develop or maintain your skills. Playing is essential for your mental and emotional balance and, Therefore, for your well-being.

This is especially true for intelligent and curious children., as it provides them with intellectual stimulation. These traits make him an ideal candidate for anyone who wants to teach their cat tricks., such as retrieve a thrown object. Having said that, does not stop learning various things on his own. Capable of opening taps and doors, they like to hide in cupboards and closets and stay there even when called, until they decide it's time to make their presence felt.

Last, the Modern Siamese cat is known to be a very talkative cat. As they seldom stray far from their owners, who does not like to have a partner who vocalizes all day with a hoarse voice, another breed would be better. It is impossible to avoid this behavior: it is his way of communicating not only with his master, but also with all family members. It is his way of communicating not only with his master, but also with all family members, so you can expect long conversations in which he expresses his approval or disagreement. Si and Am, the talkative conjoined twins of Beauty and the tramp (1955), are perfect examples of the eloquence of this cat.

They can also be very noisy when it comes to claiming attention., especially if they are left for many hours without company or without a toy: no wonder they do a series of shenanigans and long meowing sessions.

Health

"Modern Siamese cat"

The Modern Siamese cat it is generally a robust dog.

However, like all races, are more prone to certain ailments. In your case, is about:

  • Amyloidosis, a hereditary disease caused by the deposit in different organs of a protein called amyloid, that prevents them from working properly. Most of the time, the kidneys are the most affected, resulting in kidney failure or even diabetes. The main symptoms, if any, are intense thirst and frequent urge to urinate, diarrhea, loss of appetite … Drug treatment and changes in the animal's diet (especially to reduce protein intake) they can wipe out these deposits. However, existing lesions are irreversible;
  • Aortic stenosis, a congenital disease that corresponds to a decrease in the diameter of the outlet of the left ventricle of the heart, at the level of the aorta. Most often causes a state of fatigue and a heart murmur. There are treatments to improve the comfort of life of the animal, but the disease itself is incurable;
  • Urolitiasis, characterized by stone formation in the bladder, the kidneys or even the ureter. Then, the cat has difficulty urinating, drink more and, sometimes, we notice the presence of blood in the urine. Stones can be removed with surgery;
  • Asthma, also known as chronic or allergic bronchitis, causing short-term breathing difficulties and long-term lung damage. Corresponds to an allergic reaction to certain substances present in the environment, like dust mites, pollens, chemical or synthetic products (for example cleaning products), cigarette smoke … The affected animal suffers bouts of coughing and shortness of breath, while your breath makes a kind of hiss. However, treatments can greatly improve your quality of life, reducing both the number and intensity of attacks;
  • Respiratory problems, due to the elongated and triangular shape of its head. If so, is less inclined to move and strain;
  • Progressive retinal atrophy, an incurable inherited disease that causes progressive deterioration of the cat's eyesight, up to total blindness. Often not detected until very late, when it is very advanced and the cat collides with everything;
  • Glaucoma, which is caused by increased pressure in the eye. This gradually degrades the optic nerve, so the affected animal gradually loses sight. Eye drop treatments are sometimes enough to remedy the problem, but the most serious cases require surgery;
  • Hereditary strabismus, reducing visual acuity and field of vision. This anomaly manifests itself from birth and is incurable., but not very disabling;
  • Mouth problems, again because of the shape of her face.

As many of the conditions the breed is prone to are inherited, it is important to go to a breeder of Siamese serious to obtain an animal that has not only grown up in a quality environment and has benefited from good socialization from its first weeks, but also have all the possibilities to enjoy -and stay- Of good health. In effect, a professional worthy of the name ensures that certain genetic tests are performed on proposed stallions, to make sure they are not carrying a disease that they would risk passing on to their young. If they do it, are excluded from the breeding program. Therefore, must be able to present the results of these tests, along with a certificate of good health from a veterinarian and a list of vaccinations already administered to the kitten, registered in the kitten's health or vaccination card.

Once the adoption is complete, the new owner is responsible for the kitten's health for the rest of its life. A visit to the vet at least once a year, and more often as the cat ages, is essential to maximize the chances of keeping you healthy. This appointment allows the professional to carry out the necessary vaccination boosters, but also, and above all, carry out a complete health check of the animal. The latter should make it possible to detect any health problem as soon as possible., to be able to treat it in the best possible conditions.

At the same time, It is essential to protect your cat against parasites by renewing its antiparasitic treatments throughout the year, whenever necessary, so you never stop being protected. This applies even to an animal that lives in a flat, since you are not completely safe from danger.

Life expectancy

11 to 15 years

Care and grooming

"Modern Siamese cat"

Gato Siamés moderno
Siamese cat Chocolate Point, modern typeMartin Bahmann, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

As beautiful as it is, the fur of the Modern Siamese cat, requires little maintenance, especially because it does not have undercoat. Normally, brushing once a week is enough to remove dead hair and shine the coat.

However, it is better to double the frequency during your annual molts, in spring and autumn. Although the coat is short, the molt is much more pronounced.

The weekly brushing session is also an opportunity to check his ears. Wiping with a damp cloth removes dirt and reduces the risk of infection (for example, in the ears).

You should also check your eyes once a week and, if required, clean them with a damp cloth to prevent dirt from accumulating and becoming infected.

Teeth require more frequent care. It is important to limit the accumulation of plaque, that can cause not only bad breath, but also various diseases of varying severity. Brushing your cat's teeth once a week with a special feline toothpaste is the bare minimum., but it is best to brush more often, or even daily.

Last, it is important to keep your claws in good condition so that they are not too long, which could cause discomfort or even break and hurt you. Whether you live exclusively indoors or have access to the outdoors, should be checked once a month: if natural wear and tear is not enough, must be trimmed manually. This does not prevent you from having a scratching post at your disposal., otherwise it will fall back on the furniture, something he does without hesitation if necessary.

Whether the fur, the ears, the eyes, teeth or claws, caring for a Siamese is not particularly complex. However, it helps to know what to do: this not only ensures that action is taken effectively, but also that there is no risk of injuring or traumatizing the animal. Therefore, it is advisable to seek advice from a veterinarian or professional groomer the first time.

This cat has a very strong relationship with its owner. For this reason, if the owner knows how to do it well, grooming sessions can become moments of tenderness and shared complicity. This is more likely if the cat is used to it from a young age.

Food

Like any cat, the Modern Siamese cat requires a diet that, both qualitatively and quantitatively, must meet your nutritional needs. As such, it must correspond to your age, your physical activity and your state of health.

Industrial foods may be perfectly suitable, as long as they are of good quality. However, the same cannot be said for human food. Unless specifically selected for that purpose, does not meet a cat's nutritional needs. Even worse, some of the foods that are potentially very popular with their owners turn out to be toxic to the little feline. Therefore, it is a service for him not to offer him bits on the table, nor give him the leftovers or let him put his little head in the garbage can.

In any case, but the Siamese be very energetic and tend to eat a little more than a cat of another breed, He is not one of those who gorge himself. like most cats, the Siamese they self-regulate, so it is possible to make food available at all times without fear of overeating.

Last, like any cat, you must have fresh water at all times.

For sale "Modern Siamese cat"

It is not difficult to find breeders of Siamese. On the other hand, you should expect to pay a considerable amount of money, because it is by no means one of the cheapest breeds.

For example, adopt a Modern Siamese cat usually costs between 1000 and 2000 EUR.

whatever the country, the price varies depending on the reputation of the hatchery, of the animal's lineage and, above all, its intrinsic characteristics, especially on a physical level. For this reason, the amount charged may vary from one individual to another within the same litter.

Videos "Modern Siamese cat"

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Seychellois cat
Federations: FIFe

The Seychellois cat still a very confidential breed around the world, and is mainly found in the UK and continental Europe, including France.
Seychellois cat
Larabii of Gentle Mind, Seychellois at Helsinki Cat Show – Heikki Siltala, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Content

Characteristics "Seychellois cat"

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Seychellois 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

Rated 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Activity level

Rated 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to other pets

Rated 3 out of 5
3 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to children

Rated 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Grooming requirements

Rated 3 out of 5
3 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Vocality

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Need for attention

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Affection towards its owners

Rated 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Docility

Rated 2 out of 5
2 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Intelligence

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5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Independence

Rated 2 out of 5
2 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Hardiness

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

History

The Seychellois it is a rather rare domestic cat of very recent origin. In the Decade of 1980, a London-based geneticist and breeder named Patricia Turner wanted to start a cat breeding project based on the characteristics of a cat that was once endemic to the Seychelles. He had learned about this animal through reading the travelogues written by explorers who had visited the Indian Ocean archipelago.. Passionate about breeding purebred cats, the Mrs. Turner had already participated in the sixties in the registry of the Scottish Fold -and, Therefore, of the Scottish Straight– in the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF), the leading British feline association.

To create the Seychellois cat, the breeder began to cross Siamese with Persians bicolor and the Oriental shorthair cat. Later, breeders began to cross Siamese and longhair balinese within the new breed, which resulted in a variety of Seychellois cat long and semi-long hair.

The race Seychellois is recognized by the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé), Europe's leading feline association, that in 2005 allowed him to participate in the championships organized under his auspices. However, being quite rare, only seen quite occasionally at cat shows.

In 2011, the FIFé decided to combine the Breed Councils and the Siamese Cat standards, the balinese cat, the Oriental shorthair cat and the Oriental Longhair cat. at the end of 2013, Seychellois Shorthair and Seychellois Longhair were integrated into this group. Later, the organization announced that, starting at the 1 in January of 2016, the Short-haired Seychellois would be called Siamese (with white) and the Longhair Seychellois would be called balinese (with white).

At the end, the Seychellois cat still a very confidential breed around the world, and is mainly found in the UK and continental Europe, including France.

Physical characteristics

Seychellois cat
Larabii of Gentle Mind, Seychellois at Helsinki Cat ShowHeikki Siltala, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Seychellois cat share the same breed standard FIFé (Fédération Internationale Féline) with the Siamese, the Balinese cat, the Oriental shorthair cat and the Oriental Longhair cat. Similar to the Siamese, it is a medium size cat, which measures approximately 30 cm to the cross. Weighs 4 to 6,5 kilos in adulthood. His body is muscular, graceful and slim, and its legs are long and thin.

The eyes are almond-shaped and a remarkable azure blue, located in a head elongated, triangular in shape and attached to the trunk by a neck Strait. The cat has a ears quite large and a tail long, thin and pointed.

The fur is short, except in the varieties balinese and Oriental Longhair cat. The coat is silky and smooth and the extremities -face, ears, legs and tail- are at least partially colored. The kitties, like their cousins Siamese, they are white at birth. Only in the following days and weeks do their colors appear.

Color variations

The Seychellois comes in three color variants, according to the area occupied by the white spots on its fur. They are due to the gene piebald, responsible for the presence of random white spots in the animal kingdom. It is not only present in domestic cats -including the Seychellois– but also, for example, in dogs and snakes.

There is a classification system -del 1 to the 10- according to the surface of the animal's body covered by white spots. Individuals classified as “1” they are almost all black, while those classified as “10” they are almost all white. The high degree of whiteness present in Seychellois place them in categories 7 to 9.

More concretely, the three variants of piebald present in the Seychellois are:

  • Seychellois 7: the body is white, while the tail is colored, as well as parts of the head, body and legs;
  • Seychelles 8: the body is white, but small areas of the head and legs are colored;
  • Seychelles 9: the body is white, the tail is colored and there are small areas of color on the head.

Size and weight

  • Size: Of 30 to 35 cm.
  • Weight: Of 3 to 5 kg

Varieties of "Seychellois cat"

Originally, cats Seychellois from the breeding project of the British breeder and geneticist Patricia Turner they were shorthair cats. The cats that were then used for crossing were the Siamese, the bicolor Persian and Oriental shorthair cats.

A new variety of cat Longhair or semilargo appeared most recently, When the Balinese cat were incorporated into the development of this breed.

Character and skills

"Seychellois cat"

Gato Seychellois
Seychellois at Jämsä Cat show. maleSeychellois-Jämsä_show.JPG: Heikki Siltaladerivative work: Abujoy, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Like his close cousin, the Siamese, the Seychellois cat he is a lively cat, energetic and very active. They love to play, jump and climb, and they really appreciate having cat toys and a cat tree. As they are intelligent and curious, it is advisable to keep valuables out of reach, fragile or potentially harmful.

The Seychellois He is also affectionate and very attached to his owner. They need their owner to return affection and give them enough time and attention; they should not be left alone too often or for too long. This makes it an ideal companion for people who live alone., as long as, of course, be able to take care of it.

His love of play also makes him a cat who appreciates the presence of children.. However, you have to teach them not to rush with their little friend, since this one does not take it well. On the other hand, the Seychellois cat tends to adapt well to the presence of other domestic animals.

Last, the Seychellois is known to be very vocal, although a little less than his cousin the Siamese, which also has a slightly more powerful voice.

Health

The Seychellois has a half-life of about 12 years.

Being a very new breed, there is still little evidence of predisposition to certain diseases, but is currently considered to be in good health and does not appear to be affected by hereditary or congenital diseases, unlike other domestic cats.

Life expectancy

  • 12 years

Grooming

The short and dense coat of the Seychellois does not require particularly careful maintenance.

A weekly brushing of the cat's coat is sufficient. The new variety of longhair cat requires more care: you have to brush it about three times a week.

Videos "Seychellois cat"

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Ragdoll cat
Federations: LOOF, CFA, ACF, ACFA, TICA, FIFé, WCF

Ragdoll
Photo: Wilkipedia

Content

Characteristics "Ragdoll cat"

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Ragdoll 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

Rated 2 out of 5
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Friendliness to other pets

Rated 4 out of 5
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Friendliness to children

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Grooming requirements

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Vocality

Rated 2 out of 5
2 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Need for attention

Rated 2 out of 5
2 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Affection towards its owners

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Docility

Rated 5 out of 5
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Intelligence

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4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Independence

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2 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Hardiness

Rated 3 out of 5
3 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

History

The Ragdoll cat He is originally from California, United States. At the beginning of the Decade of 1960, Ann Baker, a breeder of persian cats, a white cat began to cross, semi-wild and looking like Turkish Angora cat call Josephine with several street cats. Josephine gave birth, among others, to two cats named Buckwheat and Fugianna.

They were large and docile in temperament and tended to relax completely when picked up., becoming true “Ragdolls”.

Two males were added to the breeding program of the Mrs. Barker: Blackie, a black guy looking like Burmese cat, and Daddy Warbucks, dark in color and with white tips of the legs. These five cats interbred and gave rise to the breed Ragdoll as we know it today.

Aware that he had a new breed of cat on his hands, Ann Baker decided not to have her recognized by feline associations and, Instead, chose to register the trademark Ragdoll and create your own record, the International Ragdoll Cat Association (IRCA), in 1971. At the same time, prohibited anyone from using the name Ragdoll, breed these cats outside the strict conditions imposed to preserve the purity of the breed or register them with another feline association.

Although the eccentric claims of Ann Baker about what Josephine was genetically altered by aliens in a car accident are not credible, it seems likely that he had a unique genetic makeup, probably a natural genetic mutation, which was later passed on to their offspring.

The eccentricities of Ann Baker sparked dissension among other breeders of the Ragdoll cat, especially because of the high level of inbreeding caused by the strict restrictions imposed by. In 1975, Denny and Laura Dayton they were among the first to distance themselves from the breed and attempt to give it a legitimate existence under the umbrella of recognized feline associations. They drew up the standard that was used later when it was recognized by the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé) in 1991 and for the American Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) in 1993.

In the meantime, the Ragdoll had arrived in Britain already in 1981, when breeders Pat Brownsell and Lulu Rowley they imported the first specimens and began to breed this cat that little by little would conquer British cat lovers. A few years later, in 1986, made its appearance in France.

In the news, the Ragdoll is recognized by most major national and international feline associations: is the case, in particular, of the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) British, of the Livre Officiel des Origines Félines (LOOF) French, of the International Cat Association (TICA) and of the World Cat Federation (WCF).

Well established in both North America and Europe, and its success is undeniable. In United States, it is one of the most popular breeds in terms of number of registrations in the CFA, and even ranked first in 2018. In the United Kingdom, has firmly established itself in second place since 2010; with about 3.000 kittens registered every year, it only represents around the 15% of the country's cat population.

It is also one of the five most popular cat breeds in France., and its growth is dazzling: While in 2003 less than 100 specimens in the LOOF, in 2010 more than 1.000 and in 2019 more than 2.600, surpassing the Persian for the first time. So, represents almost the 6% of births registered in the country.

Physical characteristics

Ragdoll
Ragdoll

The Ragdoll it is one of the largest breeds of domestic cats, but it grows slowly and in fits and starts, and does not reach maturity until four years.

Has a kind of body long and mighty. His body is wide and imposing, with a solid bone structure and supported by medium-sized muscular legs that end in legs round and wide. The tail is quite long and tapers slightly towards the tip.

The head forms an equilateral triangle viewed from the front. Profile, the rounded forehead is prolonged with a slide-shaped depression at the nose. The ears are size medium, point forward and end in a rounded shape. The eyes they are big, oval and of an intense blue color that rarely leaves you indifferent.

The fur of the Ragdoll, composed of a sparse undercoat and a medium length topcoat, it is silky and close to the body. Tends to elongate in winter and is densest in the back of the body, and the queue is particularly crowded. It also, some dogs have a well-developed mane.

The fur tends to be colourpoint (a light color and dark tips), but it can also be gloved or bicolor. In United States, the CFA (Cat Fanciers’ Association) also allows pattern van, or Seychelles, which is a white individual with a colored tail and head, and spots on the body. The colors allowed by the standards of the different organizations that recognize the breed are the seal, the blue, chocolate, the lilac, red and cream. These colors can be found in tortoiseshell patterns (black and Red) or tabby (striped), which gives rise to a large number of possible combinations and, Therefore, to as many cats with different appearances.

Last, the sexual dimorphism it is very marked, being the male much more imposing than the female.

Size and weight

  • Male height: Of 30 to 35 cm.
  • Female height: 28-32 cm.
  • Male weight: 5-9 kg
  • female weight: 4-7 kg

Breed standard

The breed standards are documents established by official bodies that list the conditions that a dog must meet. Ragdoll to be fully recognized as belonging to the race:

Character and skills

Ragdoll
Male Ragdoll, about three years old, with prototypical tabby patterns in the head region – BlackIceNRW, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Docile and devoted, the Ragdoll he loves the company of his family and follows them around the house, greeting them at the door when they arrive. He is a gentle and loving companion, who just wants to get into his master's lap to warm him up and relax him with a lot of purring after a hard day's work.

Very sociable, he has no problem greeting guests. If they take it in their arms, he behaves as he would with his masters: relax all your muscles, which reminds us why it is called “Ragdoll”.

Its quiet character, relaxed and easygoing makes it an excellent choice for a cat breed with children, especially if they have learned to interact with an animal. But even if they are not treated with respect, for example, if they are carried around the house for a long time, it is very rare that they remove their claws. And if there is a cat that is willing to be dressed like a doll and then carried in a stroller, it's the ragdoll. Of course, make sure that the child does not cross the line and abuse their indulgent nature.

It is not a problem of coexistence with other dogs, as long as they don't chase you around the house. It can even live with small rodents or fish, but it is advisable not to tempt the devil: the Ragdoll still a feline, and his hunting instincts can resurface at any moment.

Its flexible and calm personality makes it a cat that adapts well to changes and is capable of living in almost any environment. A move with a cat goes much better if it is a Ragdoll that a race that does not share this quality. The owner can also perfectly consider taking his cat on vacation, without fear that your partner will be completely disoriented and not enjoy the change of scenery. It is also possible to take your cat around your holiday destination on a leash, since it is something that this breed accepts very well.

Despite its impressive size, the Ragdoll adapts perfectly to life in a flat, as long as you have everything you need: the warmth and comfort of a cozy home, the affection of his family and a little space to play. Even if you live in a house and have free access to the outside, it's more of an indoor cat: rarely goes outside to explore the garden or surroundings.

On the other hand, his closeness to humans and his patience make him suitable for friendship with anyone, and turn you into a excellent therapy cat. His presence and willingness to interact with people also means that he can be a real comfort to his owner when he is going through a difficult time., and he knows that he has a support in him that he can trust in those circumstances. On the other hand, not for someone who likes to be alone and doesn't want a partner a bit “sticky”, who prefers to opt for a more independent breed.

The Ragdoll is moderately active, but enjoy chasing a cloth mouse, especially because he retains a playful side throughout his life. They are also able to learn some tricks, especially if the owner uses positive reinforcement techniques with praise and treats. It also, if given the opportunity, they love to play fetch for an object thrown by its owner, how would a dog. But don't expect him to constantly jump on the kitchen table or climb on furniture.: prefers to run rather than jump and does not venture beyond the living room sofa or bed. Like this, unlike most of his peers, does not seek a high position to observe its surroundings from above, but choose a place that facilitates contact with your family.

It also, against a legend, not insensitive to pain, and reacts like any other cat if someone steps on its tail: cries out in pain and then walks away with a reproachful look at the offender.

Last, has a soft and musical voice, but he rarely uses it, except when you order your food.

Health

"Ragdoll cat"

Ragdoll
Male Ragdoll of 4 months. Blue mitted with a blaze – CalistaZ, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Ragdoll cat it is a fairly robust breed with few genetic predispositions.

However, you are not immune to certain health problems. Among the possible risks, the most common are:

  • The feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a growth of heart tissue that can have serious consequences. However, from 2007 there is a DNA test to detect the responsible gene, so serious breeders of Ragdoll have taken all precautions to minimize this risk;
  • Bladder lithiasis, that is to say, stone formation in the bladder;
  • The urolitiasis, what is stone formation in the urethra.

These last two conditions can cause the cat to be unable to urinate, a serious situation that requires the urgent intervention of the veterinarian.

Life expectancy

Of 12 to 15 years

Grooming

The Ragdoll it is a breed of cat that is easy to care for: the brushed once a week removes dead hairs and knots that may form. This session is usually appreciated by the receiver, who enjoys the attention and caresses he receives.

Although they do not shed excessively (especially because its undercoat is not very abundant), it is advisable to increase the frequency of grooming sessions during their shedding periods, in autumn and spring.

The teeth, the eyes and ears should also be checked and maintained once a week to make sure they are clean and free of infection.

It also, depending on wear and tear and how often your dog uses the scratching post, its claws need to be trimmed more or less frequently.

Last, keep in mind that, given its size, a large litter box is necessary so that she can turn over without difficulty.

Food

Ragdoll
Ragdoll

The Ragdoll it does not pose any difficulties in terms of feeding and adapts very well to industrial cat foods available on the market. However, food must be of good quality, adapted to your age and activity level, to provide you with everything you need to stay healthy.

Kittens of this breed can experience large growth spurts, so it is important that they always have food at their disposal to develop properly. This is especially true as they are capable of self-regulation., so the risk of being overweight is very limited. This is not a sign of obesity, but a normal morphological characteristic of the breed.

Adults are also capable of self-regulation and can also have food at all times without this generally posing a problem.

However, your dog's weight should be monitored regularly and a veterinarian should be consulted in the event of a pronounced increase.

What is the price of a "Ragdoll cat"?

The price of a kitten Ragdoll round the 1100 euros on average, whether it is a male or a female.

However, this stocking hides a fairly wide range of prices, since it goes from the 600 euros of the cats with the characteristics furthest from the standard up to almost 3.000 euros of the specimens belonging to a prestigious lineage and destined for their physical attributes to shine in feline exhibitions.

Interesting data

¿Los “Ragdolls” have a reduced sense of pain?

Since the Ragdoll hangs limply when caught and lets everything hang over him, some researchers assumed the breed has a lower sense of pain than other cats. For some time, experiments were done on the poor animals. It is even believed that the founder of the breed, Ann Baker, made this claim to better market his breed. At the end, the tests led to the conclusion that there are no differences with other cats.

The “Ragdolls” on social networks

Their funny and clumsy character makes cats Ragdoll be real stars on the internet. There is hardly a collection of “funny cat videos” in which this breed does not appear. The Ragdolls most famous on Instagram are the three cats Lola, Nina and Olan, whose day to day you can follow under the name of @ladylolathecat. The three cats live with their owner in a floating house and delight 139.000 subscribers almost daily with funny videos and images.

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Safari cat
Unrecognized breed.

Content

"Safari cat"

Gato Safari
Safari cat

History

The Safari it is a relatively new breed of cat, dating back to the years 70. It is a hybrid between Domestic cat (or “street cat”) and the Geoffroy's cat (Leopardus geoffroyi). The latter is a small wild cat -some 4 kg adult- whose habitat is southern South America, from Bolivia to Patagonia. The breed was named first “Creole” and then “Appaloosa”. Finally, the name of Safari, to refer to its exotic and wild origin.

It is not recognized by American organizations such as the American Cat Fanciers’ Association (ACFA), the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) or The International Cat Association (TICA), nor by European organizations such as Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF), the World Cat Federation (WCF) wave Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé). However, some have been registered 100 specimens in the TICA, which makes the Safari in a very rare cat. For this reason and for its price, some have come to call him the “Rolls Royce of cats”.

The first Safaris were created in the United States in the decade of 1970 by Washington State University for use in a leukemia research program. In particular, were used as guinea pigs for stem cell studies and the like.

Upon completion of the medical research project, the hybridization program was abandoned by university researchers due to difficulties encountered. The cells of the geoffrey cat and those of Domestic cat do not contain the same number of chromosomes. The private breeders who have taken over have had to face the same genetic problem. In particular, lack of male fertility makes the breed very difficult to develop. This is the reason why the Safari cat still so rare today.

Physical characteristics

As the breed is not recognized, no standard has yet been established for the Safari cat. But his genetic heritage makes him a tabby and exotic-looking cat.: its fur is reminiscent of a leopard.

It is a Domestic cat large: first-generation hybrids can weigh up to 15 kg. However, size tends to decrease in subsequent generations, stabilizing around the 11 kilos for males and 8 kilos for females.

Size and weight

  • Size: Of 40 to 45 cm.
  • Weight: Of 6 to 12 kg

Character and skills

"Safari cat"

Gato Safari
Safari cat – Stock Credit; iStock

There is a growing number of “races” that are being developed by crossing our Domestic cat Felis catus with wild cats. Apart from the first generations, these cats are being bought by people who want a pet with something different, but the character and behavior of cats is uncertain and many of them are quite large cats. To this must be added the problems if they go outside and are aggressive and very territorial with other cats., or are they much more avid hunters causing the devastation of the fauna.

What is not taken into account is the welfare of the wild cats kept for breeding, the danger to domestic cats that mate with wild ones and the welfare of the first generations that cannot be sold as pets but must be kept as wild cats.

Keeping them confined may not contribute much to your own well-being. hybrid cat.

In conclusion, no need to hybridize domestic cats with wild cats and the resulting races, as the Safari cat, they have many welfare issues and should not be bred or kept as pets.

Health

The small number of individuals makes it difficult to identify the specific health problems of the Safari cat.

However, males are known to be infertile, which makes it difficult to breed the breed. The breeders of Safari they usually stay with the females for breeding, so the cats available for adoption are mostly infertile males.

Observation

In general, the races with pedigree use a much smaller gene pool for breeding than domestic cats and, therefore, are at increased risk of developing inherited disorders. It also, a number of pedigree breeds “newer” are derived from crosses between one or more races “Older”, and in these situations hereditary problems seen in older breeds are likely to be perpetuated within newer breeds.

Grooming

As it is a very rare breed, no specific care requirements have been mentioned so far Safari cat. All you have to do is provide the general care any domestic cat needs.. How is a shorthair cat, a weekly brushing is enough.

For sale "Safari cat"

The price of a Safari cat varies greatly from farm to farm. On average, it can cost from 4.000 at €6,000 given the rarity of this breed. Your sex, the uniqueness of your lineage or your age can influence the price of a Safari. You have to calculate, In addition, around €50 per month to ensure you have a quality meal and keep you in good health.
Special care must be taken with fraudulent breeders who try to sell cats of other breeds under the name of "Safari”.

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Sacred Cat of Burma (Birman)
Federations: CFA, FIFé, ACF, LOOF

Birmano de pies blancos
Photo: hizapearls.com

Content

Characteristics "Sacred Cat of Burma (Birman)"

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Sacred Cat of Burma (Birman)" 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

Rated 2 out of 5
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Friendliness to other pets

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to children

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Grooming requirements

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Vocality

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Need for attention

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Affection towards its owners

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4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Docility

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Intelligence

Rated 3 out of 5
3 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Independence

Rated 2 out of 5
2 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Hardiness

Rated 3 out of 5
3 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

History

The Sacred Cat of Burma (Birman) has recently appeared in Europe and its origin remains mysterious. It is said that some Englishmen brought a couple of cats from Burma from the so-called Lao-Tsun temple.

It is said that one such Mrs. Leotardi, In the south of france, was the owner of Madalpour doll, a burmese cat Seal point, exhibited in Paris in 1926, whose parents came from Burma and were given to him by a certain Mrs. Thadde-Haddish.

In fact, the first subjects would be the result of crossing a Siamese cat marked in white at the end of the legs with a longhair cat (angora the persian) practiced in the twenties, in the Nice region.

About 1930, the God of arakan, A male Seal point, became the star of feline shows.

After the Second World War, during which the race was about to disappear, blood infusions were made from a Persian cat colourpoint to limit inbreeding.

In 1950, the breed was renamed as Sacred Cat of Burma (Birman) to avoid confusion with the Burmese cat.

Introduced in the United States in 1959-1960 and in Great Britain in 1965, where it was recognized, this breed is very popular with the public and has great success.

Physical characteristics

Sacred Cat of Burma (Birman)
Sacred Cat of Burma (Birman)

The Sacred Cat of Burma he's a long and powerful guy. He is relatively burly, with one head wide and round with large ears and eyes deep, almost round, light blue.

The face it is not flattened and the nose is rather long and straight. The body is elongated and the legs are long..

The fur is long, silky, more dense in the neck. The belly has slightly curly hair.

A characteristic feature of this breed is the presence of symmetrical white markings on the legs., calls “gloves”.

Colors points: seal, blue, lilac, Red and cream. Tortoise shell of all colors, except red and cream.

Size and weight

  • Size: 30 cm.
  • Weight: Of 4 to 6 kg

Breed standard

The breed standards are documents produced by official bodies that list the conditions that a Burmese must meet to be fully recognized as belonging to the breed.:

Character and skills

"Sacred Cat of Burma (Birman)"

Gato Sagrado de Birmania (Birmano)
A Seal Point Birman Cat called Strofe – Kristin Kokkersvold, Copyrighted free use, via Wikimedia Commons

Halfway between the Persian and the Siamese, this cat is calm, balanced, neither passive nor exuberant.

Less docile than Persian, it is however calmer, quiet and less active than Siamese.

Kind, affectionate (especially the males), often a bit possessive, Can't stand indifference and less loneliness, although it seems a bit individualistic. His voice is soft.

He is sociable with his peers.

Playful, it is a nice companion for children. But he also likes peace and quiet.

Abroad, they are robust, athletic and great hunters.

The females., adults of about 7 months of age, They are mothers who are very concerned about their pups..

Grooming

The maintenance of the coat is relatively easier than that of the Persian, since knots and tangles are rare.

In normal times, weekly brushing and combing is sufficient to maintain the coat. However, during the move, daily brushing and combing is necessary.

Videos "Sacred Cat of Burma (Birman)"

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RagaMuffin cat
Federations: CFA, WCF, ACFA

Photo: mypetsmart.com

Content

Characteristics "RagaMuffin cat"

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "RagaMuffin 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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3 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Activity level

Rated 2 out of 5
2 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to other pets

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to children

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Grooming requirements

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Vocality

Rated 2 out of 5
2 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Need for attention

Rated 2 out of 5
2 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Affection towards its owners

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Docility

Rated 5 out of 5
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Intelligence

Rated 4 out of 5
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Independence

Rated 2 out of 5
2 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Hardiness

Rated 3 out of 5
3 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

History

The history of RagaMuffin cat is closely linked to that of the Ragdoll.

It all started in 1963, When Ann Baker, a breeder of persian cats Of California, adopted the kittens of a semi-wild, semi-long-haired stray cat named Josephine. Josephine suffered a car accident that dramatically affected his character, making her calmer, friendly and loving. Pass on these behavioral qualities to your litter, to the amazement of Ann Baker, I didn't expect to get such obedient kittens from an originally wild stray cat. So he decided to start breeding a new breed called Ragdoll, in reference to the amazing propensity of these cats to go limp, extremely relaxed and even inert, as soon as they are caught.

However, Ann Baker He is quite an eccentric person and wants to keep control over the evolution of “their” race. By refusing to register the Ragdoll in official feline standardization bodies (like TICA), created his own association, the International Ragdoll Cat Association (IRCA), intended to regulate development, the establishment of norms and the control of the different breeds of Ragdoll. It imposes very strict rules on breeders who want to market to the Ragdoll cat, which caused a first division in the community of breeders in 1975. This division led to the development of Ragdoll and its inclusion in the official international standards of organizations such as FIFé (Fédération Internationale Féline) and Cat Fancier Association (CFA).

In 1994, four breeders who disapproved of the practices of Ann Baker they also left the IRCA and developed a new breed similar to Ragdoll: the Ragamuffin, a Ragdoll Nameless. Favoring the preservation of the health and personality of the breed above its aesthetic appearance, they crossed to Ragdoll cat with the Persian, the Himalayan cat and semi-long haired stray cats, until reaching the current form of the Ragamuffin. The crossing of Ragamuffins with Ragdolls was allowed until 2010, before being banned, so as not to create confusion for potential buyers.

However, today, the RagaMuffin cat is only recognized by a limited number of feline associations. It is the case of the World Cat Federation (WCF) from 2009, and of the American Cat Fancier Association (ACFA) from 2010, but with stricter acceptance criteria. The Cat Fancier Association (CFA) also recognizes the breed from 2003, and allows your horses to compete from 2011.

However, the lack of acceptance by larger organizations such as the TICA or the LOOF does not yet allow breeders of Ragamuffin certify the pedigree (lineage) of a litter of kittens Ragamuffin.

Last, the Ragamuffin is present today mainly in the United States, Canada and Europe.

Physical characteristics

Ragamuffin
Ragamuffin

The Ragamuffin It is a breed of cat with semi-long hair whose physique is still very similar to that of its ancestor., the Ragdoll.

Bigger than the average cat, the body of the Ragamuffin is rectangular, quite muscular, with a broad chest and powerful shoulders, but a rather short neck. In general, the Ragamuffin is perceived as rounder than the Ragdoll.

The head is triangular, with good cheeks, round whisker pads and a skull well rounded. Ears tilt slightly forward. The eyes they are walnut-shaped, which gives the dog a very soft look. The Ragamuffin may sometimes have heterochromia iridis (one eye of each color), a characteristic that is not accepted in its cousin.

The fur it is dense and very soft, similar to a rabbit. Hair is longer around the head, the neck and under the belly, but not as long as a Ragdoll. All are accepted colors coat and pattern variations, with the exception of colourpoint.

Size and weight

  • Male size: Of 23 to 25 cm.
  • female size: 22-24 cm.
  • Male weight: 6-9 kg
  • female weight: 4-6 kg

Breed standard

The breed standards are documents established by official organizations that list the conditions that a Ragamuffin to be fully recognized as belonging to the race:

Character and skills

"RagaMuffin cat"

Ragamuffin
Name: Ramu Gender: Female Kind: Ragamuffin – Takashi Hososhima from Tokyo, Japan, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Ragamuffin is a perfect indoor cat. He is known to be very docile, extremely affectionate and calm. Not a great athlete, but he loves to play and climb between naps. You can even learn to retrieve items, if its owner is very patient in cat training.

To the Ragamuffin likes to spend time with other people in the house and follow them to participate in the activities of the day, what sometimes makes his owners say he behaves like a dog. Patient with children and particularly eager to be petted, loves to be the center of attention, sometimes to the point of being intrusive.

self-confident and fearless, will be the first to greet strangers who visit home and rub his knees. It also does not show any animosity towards other animals in the house. (dogs, cats, birds and even rodents), provided they are gradually introduced.

This excess of kindness even leads some owners to say that their partner should stay indoors for their own safety., since it has very few reflexes to protect itself against aggression or danger.

It also, nothing disturbs this quiet force, not even a move or a family change.

Health

Ragamuffin
Name: Ramu Gender: Female Kind: Ragamuffin – Takashi Hososhima from Tokyo, Japan, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commonsv

The Ragamuffin is a big cat with a slow growth rate. Like this, representatives of this breed reach their physical and behavioral maturity at the age of three or four years.

Like his ancestor the Ragdoll, Ragamuffin may have a similar predisposition to certain feline diseases, as the periodontal disease, the polycystic kidney disease and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, an inherited syndrome that is more common in cats of Persian ancestry. It is recommended to use the available DNA tests for these last two diseases, and ask the breeder if he has had the kitten's parents tested.

It also, the Ragamuffin it is also prone to feline obesity, due to its not very athletic nature.
Last, and this is rare enough to be mentioned, crossing with other breeds is allowed (mainly Persians and himalayan) every five generations, in order to reduce the effects of inbreeding on the general health of the Ragamuffin.

Life expectancy

12 to 18 years

Grooming

Regular brushing of the dog's coat RagaMuffin cat necessary to remove tangles from the coat and help prevent shedding throughout the house.

It is also recommended to trim the cat's nails every fortnight if he does not use them enough on a scratching post..

Last, daily brushing of the cat's teeth is recommended to prevent periodontal disease (periodontosis). However, if the cat is not really docile, weekly brushing may be enough.

Food

The Ragamuffin is known to be a healthy cat. However, your laziness and greed can quickly lead to weight problems in the cat. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the amount of your food, as well as its quality.

For sale "RagaMuffin cat"

The average price to adopt a kitten Ragamuffin is of some 300 EUR.

This rather low price is explained by the fact that, due to lack of recognition by the main international feline organizations, a breeder's Ragamuffin you are unable to provide a pedigree for the kittens you are trying to sell. In fact, due to the lack of tangible and irrefutable evidence that it is true Ragamuffins And not from Ragdolls that do not meet the standards (or even kittens from another cross), negotiating the price of a kitten Ragamuffin is essentially based on trust between the breeder and the future owner.

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Selkirk Rex cat
Federations: LOOF, CFA, ACF, ACFA, TICA, WCF, FIFE (provisional)

The word Rex is generally used to refer to curly-haired cat breeds, while the first term is simply the name of your stepfather. The Selkirk Rex It, Therefore, the only breed in the world named after a person.
Photo Wilkipedia

Content

Characteristics "Selkirk Rex cat"

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Selkirk Rex 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

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Activity level

Rated 3 out of 5
3 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to other pets

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to children

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Grooming requirements

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Vocality

Rated 1 out of 5
1 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Need for attention

Rated 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Affection towards its owners

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5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Docility

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4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Intelligence

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4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Independence

Rated 2 out of 5
2 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Hardiness

Rated 3 out of 5
3 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

History

In 1987, a litter of kittens, whose mother was straight-haired and whose father was unknown, was abandoned in a Wyoming shelter, United States. Among them was a small curly-haired cat. It was adopted by Jerri Newman, a Persian breeder from Montana who was drawn to the unusual-looking felines and was immediately fascinated by the small, curly-haired animal. He called the little blue and white cat with alert green eyes that looked like a little lamb Miss Pesto of NoFace . When he reached sexual maturity, decided to cross it with Photo Finish of Deekay, one of his black persians.

From this mating six cubs were born, three of which had curly fur. After studying the genetics of cats, Jerri Newman realized that his cats' curly hair was the result of a spontaneous genetic mutation (that is to say, without human intervention, randomly and naturally), and that the gene for curly hair is dominant. In other words, it is enough for an individual to inherit the mutated version of the gene from only one of their parents for them to also have this particularity.

In this first litter, one of the kittens was long-haired, which meant that the lady Pesto of Noface she was also a carrier of the recessive gene for long hair; in other words, was heterozygous for the short hair gene.

Jerri Newman decided to create a breed of curly hair (short or long) who you called Selkirk Rex. The word Rex is generally used to refer to curly-haired cat breeds, while the first term is simply the name of your stepfather. The Selkirk Rex It, Therefore, the only breed in the world named after a person.

To fix the characteristics of this cat, and in particular the hair that gives it the appearance of a sheep, Jerri Newman decided to mate the lady Pesto of NoFace with one of her children with curly white fur. He also used this son to write the breed standard. Three of the four pups that were born from this union met the desired criteria.: a solid body, but also and above all a curly coat, either short or long.

So he surrounded himself with other breeders who shared his passion for the herding cat and worked with them to further develop the breed.. To expand the breed's gene pool and avoid inbreeding problems, that could lead to health problems, but also to obtain graceful looking cats, they decided to cross the Selkirk Rex with the American shorthair cat, the British Shorthair cat, the Persian and the Exotic Shorthair. The first two are very similar breeds, short-haired and balanced character. The Exotic Shorthair is a cross between the Persian and the British Shorthair cat (among others). As he exotic as the Persian they are long-haired and have a friendly and homely character.

In the following years, Jerri Newman and other breeders developed the breed and quickly began the process for it to be recognized by feline organizations.

The recognition of “Selkirk Rex”

The Selkirk Rex it is a recent breed of cats, but the quality work done by Jerry Newman and his collaborators has allowed it to be recognized very quickly around the world.

Already in 1990, the International Cat Association (TICA) was the first official body that took the step of recognizing the Selkirk Rex with a provisional status reserved for new breeds. Just four years later, in 1994, granted to Selkirk Rex full recognition, thus opening the doors to the feline exhibitions organized under its auspices.

The Canadian Cat Association (CCA) followed him in 1997, and the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) did the same in 2000.

The import of Selkirk Rex to Europe in the years 90 it also allowed him to gain the support of local organizations. In France, where it was introduced in 1991, the Official Book of Feline Origins (LOOF) recognized her in 2003. El Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) did the same in 2004.

In 2017 it was the turn of the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé), that coordinates organizations of no less than 40 countries -including Felis Belgica in Belgium and the Fédération Féline Helvétique in Switzerland-.

If we add to this that it is also recognized by the World Cat Federation, we can see that the Selkirk Rex is now recognized by all major international and national feline organizations.

Popularity of “Selkirk Rex”

Selkirk Rex
Selkirk Rex

The Selkirk Rex is a relatively new breed. However, is already well established, especially in North America and Europe.

In United States, your country of origin, appears around the stalls 20 and 25 of the classification established by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) depending on the number of annual registrations in the organization.

in Canada, the Canadian Cat Association (CCA) registers an average of about 70 births per year, which places the Selkirk Rex around the tenth place among the other breeds recognized by the organization.

In France, the number of registrations Selkirk Rex in the Official Book of Feline Origins (LOOF) has increased considerably since 2006. Although until then he had not exceeded twenty per year, suddenly rose to about sixty, and then to a hundred at the end of the decade. It continued to increase throughout the decade of 2010, up to the 200, but this evolution is mainly due to the long-haired variety, which represents three-quarters of births, whereas before it was a minority. The curves crossed at 2013, and from then on the Selkirk Rex Shorthair continued to decline both in relative and absolute terms, having peaked in the early 1990s 2010 With almost 100 births per year only.

It also, organization statistics also show some 60 annual inscriptions of copies of non-curly hair, that cannot be shown in exhibitions but can be used as reproducers. If they are also taken into account, The total number of births per year is between 250 and 300.

In Switzerland, was not up 2015 when the first Selkirk Rex shorthair on Fédération Féline Helvétique (FFH). The long-haired one followed in 2017, but in total they barely exceed a dozen annual registrations. Therefore, the breed has made its entrance into the country, but it is still very little established there.

In Great Britain, it's even in clear decline. In fact, the number of annual registrations in the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) was around the 70 at the end of the Decade of 2010, while only 10 years before it was 3 to 4 times greater. The explosion of the race between 2004 and 2008, less than 50 registrations per year to almost 300, it's clearly a thing of the past.

Physical characteristics

Selkirk Rex
Selkirk Rex

Its curly coat gives the Selkirk Rex an atypical and very recognizable appearance. The Selkirk Rex it is a medium to large size cat, stocky and semi-thick.

Its body solid and rectangular is built on well-developed musculature and strong bones. The shoulders and hips are of equal width. The legs are size medium, good muscular, and end in feet wide and round that give a good base.

The tail it is thick and of medium length, tapering to a rounded tip. In short-haired individuals, has fluffy curls that cover it completely. On the other hand, in semi-long hair, hair is feathered.

The head of the Selkirk Rex rests on a neck short and thick. The head it is well rounded and wide, with a well-rounded skull that continues in a slightly concave curve.

This appearance is enhanced by the fact that the ears are well separated in the skull. Medium-sized, broad at the base and rounded at the tips.

The eyes they are very separated, large, round and open, which gives this cat a very soft and soulful look. All colors are possible, but the most appreciated are the intense and bright.

Inherited from Persian, the nose is short, wide and straight. A slight stop is allowed.

Tame well-filled whisker pads, which gives the appearance of a snout slightly square. The chin is in line with the tip of the nose and well defined.

The Selkirk Rex has a undercoat dense and comes in two varieties, depending on the length of the top layer: individuals of shorthair and semi-long-hair. Apart from this aspect, share the same characteristics, both physical and behavioral.

In both cases, the fur is dense, soft and curly all over the body. The length of the curls can vary depending on the season, but they are more prominent on the neck, the throat, belly and tail. Mustaches and eyebrows are also curly, but often fragile.

In individuals of shorthair, the coat is fluffy and the curls are regular all over the body. In those of semi-long-hair, they grow in all directions. The ruffled curls are especially long and frame the head well..

Regardless of the length of the coat, the kitties Selkirk Rex they are born with a curly coat, but this can become smooth at 2 or 3 months of age, and then curls are formed again at the 8 or 10 months. Next, keep growing, and the cat has its final coat around two years of age.

It also, the different standards accept all colors and coat combinations.

Last, there is no sexual dimorphism real in this breed. In particular, males and females are very similar in size and build.

A physical characteristic due to a dominant gene

In the Selkirk Rex, the genetic mutation that causes curly hair is linked to a dominant gene. For an individual to have this characteristic, it is enough that he inherits the corresponding gene from only one of his parents. In other words, Yes it is Heterozygosity in the gene associated with the appearance of hair, that is to say, carries a gene of “normal hair” and another from “curly hair”, it is necessarily the latter that imposes itself and expresses itself. Of course, Yes it is homozygous, that is to say, if you are a version carrier “curly hair” of the gene twice, will also have this particularity.

In this sense, the Selkirk Rex differs from most other curly-haired cat breeds, in which this characteristic is due to a recessive gene. In the Devon Rex, the Cornish Rex, the German Rex or the Ural Rex, both parents must have transmitted the genetic mutation in question and, therefore, the individual must be the carrier of two copies of the version “curly hair” of the gen (that is to say, ser homozygous for this gene), to really have that fur. If he is heterozygous, that is to say, if you have a gene for “curly hair” and another from “normal hair”, inevitably it is the latter that prevails and, Therefore, the fur is not curly.

Having a dominant gene allows, Obviously, that the population of Selkirk Rex grow much faster. If an individual is crossed homozygous with another Heterozygosity, all kittens have curly hair. It also, the mating of two heterozygous results in a litter in which an average of three-quarters of the kittens have curly hair. A mating between a Heterozygosity and a straight-haired cat will give rise to an offspring with half the curly-haired kittens.

Size and weight

  • Size: 30 cm.
  • Weight: Of 3 to 5 kg

Breed standard

The breed standards are documents established by official bodies that list the conditions that a dog must meet. Selkirk Rex to be fully recognized as belonging to the race:

Varieties of "Selkirk Rex cat"

"Selkirk Rex cat"

Selkirk Rex
One selkirk rex à poil long à l’exposition féline d’HelsinkiHeikki Siltala, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Selkirk Rex it comes in two varieties:

  • The Selkirk Rex shorthair;
  • The Selkirk Rex semi-long hair.

The length of the coat is the only thing that differentiates them: for the rest, their physical characteristics and character traits are identical regardless of the length of their fur. It also, the official organisms that recognize the race accept both varieties.

Both kittens Selkirk Rex shorthair Like the ones of semi-long-hair they can be born in the same litter. It also, even though both parents are Selkirk Rex and, Therefore, have curly hair, they can be heterozygous for the genetic mutation associated with this trait: in this case, a quarter of their offspring are straight-haired.

Therefore, These Selkirk Rex “straight” they can have a short or semi-long coat and are accepted as breeding aids, that is to say, are allowed to breed and can give birth to kittens of curly hair. However, they are not allowed to participate in the various championships.

Crossings allowed

Considering that the breed's population is still relatively limited, and in order to expand their gene pool to avoid health problems that inbreeding could cause, the International Cat Association (TICA) authorizes the crossing of Selkirk Rex with :

In France, the Livre Officiel des Origines Félines (LOOF) it's a little more restrictive, since it only allows marriages with three other races:

in Canada, the Canadian Cat Association (CCA) only accepts matings with him Himalayan cat. Until 2015, also allowed to cross the Selkirk Rex with the British shorthair cat, the Exotic Shorthair shorthair, the Exotic Shorthair longhair and the Persian cat. However, with the development of the breed, these crosses were no longer necessary or desirable.

Character and skills

Selkirk Rex
Selkirk Rex – Nickolas Titkov from Moscow, Russian Federation, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Selkirk Rex it's a cat that looks like a little curly stuffed animal, but do not confuse it. It has a balanced character that gives it both the calm and cuddly side of the Persian or British Shorthair cat, but he's also playful and mischievous.

He especially likes being around humans and interacting with them, which makes it an ideal companion for the whole family. They are especially good with children.: they are playful enough to have fun with and be a good playmate, while being patient and tolerant of them. However, This does not mean that they should not be taught to be respectful and gentle, since they can lose patience if they are mistreated. In any case, for the safety of both parties, a cat - whatever its breed- should never be left alone in the company of a small child without the slightest adult supervision.

Although they are attached to all members of their family, the Selkirk Rex they tend to have a special affection for the person who cares the most for them. They enjoy sleeping with them, sitting with them on the couch or spending long periods snuggled on their lap.

Extremely cuddly and loving, He loves to be caressed and asked for pampering, but he does not stop giving it to them in return. During these moments of affection, does not hesitate to express his satisfaction by purring. He also knows how to make himself heard if his requests for sweetness go unheeded., meowing softly until he gets his way.

The proximity of Selkirk Rex your family also means that you are always willing to participate in family activities, and hates to stay out. It also bothers him that he is left out of the family for long periods of time..

Letting him live with a partner or a dog is a great way to avoid loneliness.. As long as acclimatization is done gradually (especially if the two protagonists are already a certain age), that coexistence usually goes well, and both are usually delighted to have a partner to play with or relax with. However, if he Selkirk Rex you have to share your home with a canine representative, of course it is better to choose a breed of dog that is compatible with a cat.

The Selkirk Rex it can also live under the same roof as a bird or even a small rodent, as long as each one has their respective corner. The Selkirk Rex does not have a true hunting instinct and, therefore, he is quite placid with them.
He is also usually placid when he meets strangers., since he is not a bellicose guy. Therefore, if there is a confrontation, the other cat is likely to be the cause.

The Selkirk Rex feels very comfortable with all family members, both humans and animals, and can become just as comfortable with strangers, since it is a sociable cat. In any case, not one of those who freaks out as soon as a new person crosses the threshold of home.

Having said that, like any feline worth its salt, be grateful to have a high place (for example, a tree for cats) from which you can scan your environment at any time. In fact, although he is cuddly and playful, it is not overly intrusive either; he also likes his moments of independence and isolation while observing what happens.

It also, like all cats, has an irrepressible need to fix its claws, so you must have a scratching post that you can indulge in, especially if you live indoors. Otherwise, furniture or curtains are equally acceptable solutions for him.

Grooming and caring for the "Selkirk Rex cat"

Selkirk Rex
Selkirk-rex – Flickr

Whether short or long, the curly hair of the Selkirk Rex is dense and requires special care, especially since it breaks easily. To prevent it from being damaged and to take proper care of it, it is important to invest in a comb with wide and fine teeth.

An individual from Longhair should be combed every two days to avoid knots and remove dead hair. During the shedding periods in autumn and spring, the cat loses a lot of hair, and a daily brushing is necessary.

for a shorthair cat, two brushing sessions a week are usually sufficient. During the moulting season, brushing should be done every other day.

In any case, brushing prevents the cat from ingesting too much hair when licking, which then regurgitates in the form of hairballs. Once the brushing is finished, Running your hands through your cat's fur will serve both to freshen the fur and put him in a good mood for the rest of the day and the next session, since at Selkirk Rex loves pampering.

However, their fur tends to get greasy, as sebum stays at the base of the coat and makes the skin oily. Therefore, it is necessary to bathe him from time to time, making sure to use a moisturizing shampoo specially designed for felines and to proceed gently, so as not to damage the fur. Next, let the hair air dry, since the use of the dryer will make the hair frizzy.

Like any cat, the ears of the Selkirk Rex they should also be cared for regularly. Therefore, it is essential to check them once a week and clean the dirt with a damp cloth to avoid infections (otitis, etc.).

This is also an opportunity to check the eyes and, if required, wipe the corners with a damp cloth to remove dirt. This will also reduce the risk of infection..

Keeping your cat's teeth clean is also important, as it helps prevent plaque build-up, that can not only cause bad breath, but also more or less serious diseases. Brushing once a week with a special toothpaste for felines is essential, but the ideal is to do it more often, even daily.

It is also important to ensure that its claws are not too long: they could not only annoy you, or even break and hurt you, but also hurt his owner when he jumps on him, how much you like to do. For a cat with free access to the outdoors, natural wear and tear will work, but it's not always enough: it is better to check once a month and cut them manually when needed. For an indoor cat, this is usually how often it needs to be trimmed. In any case, whether the animal has access to the outside or not, a scratching post is essential: otherwise, it is very likely that it will fall back on the furniture to make its claws.

coat care, the ears, the eyes, teeth and claws is not complicated. However, to carry out maintenance of a Selkirk Rex in the best conditions, it is better to master the different gestures perfectly, in order not only to be effective, but also to avoid injuring or even traumatizing your cat. So that the maintenance sessions are moments of tenderness and complicity instead of a torture feared by each of the protagonists, it is therefore useful to learn these gestures from a professional veterinarian or groomer the first time.

These deals become privileged moments that reinforce the bond between the owner and his animal., since at Selkirk Rex likes to be paid attention to and handled tenderly. The more used the Selkirk Rex grooming from an early age, more likely it will go well.

Indoor or outdoor cat?

As long as the area is large enough for you to stretch your legs, the Selkirk Rex you can live both in a flat and in a house with a garden. On this last case, the ideal is to install a cat flap, so you can come and go as you please.

It also, generally better adapted to a change in environment than peers. This flexibility is also illustrated by the fact that she does not mind traveling with her family and is well tolerant of car trips..

How much activity does he need? "Selkirk Rex cat"?

Sweet and endearing, he is also playful, curious and intelligent. This makes him very fond of interactive toys to develop his skills. He is also a good student for anyone who wants to teach their cat tricks., and he is also perfectly capable of learning certain things on his own, how to open doors or cabinets. It also, has a bit of insanity that often leads him to jump on the back of the person he is playing with without warning. To avoid this being a problem, it is best to check the length of your claws every month.

Health and nutrition

Selkirk Rex
One selkirk rex à poil long à l’exposition féline d’HelsinkiHeikki Siltala, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Selkirk Rex is generally in robust health.

It also, regardless of the length of its coat, its dense undercoat helps it withstand cold temperatures well. However, it is short enough to prevent you from suffering too much in the heat. However, they don't feel comfortable when it's hot, and it is essential that they have permanent access to a shaded and ventilated area.

As all cats, are especially prone to certain diseases. In this case, the top three threats to your health are inherited from your ancestors:

  • The Hip Dysplasia, a deformation of the joint that causes movement difficulties and often leads to osteoarthritis as the animal ages;
  • The hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which also especially affects British shorthairs and Persians. This disease corresponds to a thickening of the heart muscle, which can cause breathing difficulties, fatigue and intolerance to exertion. A genetic mutation may be the cause of the problem, and a DNA test can detect it. However, this does not predict when symptoms will appear or how severe they will be;
  • The poliquistosis renal, an inherited disease to which Persian and British Shorthair are also susceptible. It manifests as cysts in one or both kidneys and leads to chronic kidney failure. There's no cure, but certain treatments and changes in the cat's diet will allow it to maintain a better quality of life for longer.

On the other hand, the Selkirk Rex he is a greedy cat, so it tends to be overweight or even Obesity if nothing is done to prevent it. Not a problem to be taken lightly, given the number of health problems that being overweight can cause or worsen.

Using a serious and competent breeder is the best way to adopt a Selkirk Rex which is probably healthy and balanced. A professional breeder not only makes sure that kittens are well socialized and have good living conditions from the first weeks of life, but also wants them to be born and raised in good health. As such, ensures genetic testing is performed on future breeders, in order to rule out any hereditary conditions that they can transmit to their offspring. Therefore, must be able to present the results of the various tests carried out to the parents (or even the young animal), in addition to a certificate of good health drawn up by a veterinarian and the details of the vaccinations received by the young animal, registered in your health or vaccination card.

Once the adoption is done, it is the owner's responsibility to do everything possible to keep the cat in good health for as long as possible. One way to do this is to get into the habit of taking your cat to the vet for a complete checkup at least once a year., and even more as he gets older. These appointments can help diagnose any problems as soon as possible., to be able to treat it in the best possible way. They also offer the opportunity to carry out the necessary booster vaccines.

At the same time, to ensure that your pet is always protected against parasite-borne diseases, you should try to repeat antiparasitic treatments throughout the year. This is true even for an indoor pet.: may have less risk, but not totally safe from infestation.

Food

"Selkirk Rex cat"

Selkirk Rex
This is a picture of my cinnamon tabby Selkirk Rex Pollo – Wikipedia

Like any other cat, the Selkirk Rex you need a diet perfectly adapted to your nutritional needs. I.e., both in terms of quality and quantity. Must be age appropriate, the health and activity level of the cat.

A good quality industrial food can perfectly satisfy your needs. On the other hand, unless they are carefully selected, it is better to avoid giving them food intended for humans. For example, give your cat a habit of picking up a small portion of the owner's food, or even eat leftovers, or have a free hand to rummage through the garbage, it is not a service for him, especially since some of the foods in question can be really toxic to cats.

This is true of any cat., but even more with him Selkirk Rex, given their greed and tendency to be overweight. The latter explains why, unlike most cats, it is better not to leave food out all day, as it may not be able to regulate. Fixed meal times are a better way to feed him.

Regular weight control, weighing himself once a month, it is also essential to protect yourself from obesity. In case of an increase that is confirmed in several consecutive measurements, it is necessary to seek professional advice. Only a veterinarian can make a reliable diagnosis to determine if the problem is due to an inadequate diet, to lack of activity, to a reaction to the medication, to a disease, etc. Once this is done, tell you how to remedy the problem.

Last, like all cats, the Selkirk Rex you need fresh water at all times, especially since it is prone to renal polyquistosis.

For sale "Selkirk Rex cat"

The price of a kitten Selkirk Rex usually oscillates between 800 and 1300 EUR.

In all countries, the asking price varies depending on the reputation of the kennel and the lineage of the animal, as well as its intrinsic characteristics, especially the physical ones. This last aspect justifies the fact that within a litter there can sometimes be significant price differences..

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Snowshoe cat
Federations: LOOF, ACFA, TICA, FIFé

Content

Characteristics "Snowshoe cat"

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Snowshoe 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

Rated 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Activity level

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to other pets

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to children

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Grooming requirements

Rated 3 out of 5
3 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Vocality

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Need for attention

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Affection towards its owners

Rated 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Docility

Rated 3 out of 5
3 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Intelligence

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Independence

Rated 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Hardiness

Rated 3 out of 5
3 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

History

The Snowshoe cat as we know it today originated in the United States in the 1980s. 1960, but the first Siamese white-legged appeared as early as the nineteenth century. In fact, numerous photographs from the Victorian era show that these cats already existed in Great Britain. More recently, in the decade of 1950, some appeared Siamese cats with white paws under the name of Silver Laces, but they soon disappeared from circulation.

Over the years 60, Dorothy Hinds-Daugherty, a breeder of Siamese from philadelphia ((UNITED STATES)UU.), discovered that three kittens in a litter had white tips on all four paws. Seduced by this new look, decided to cross a Siamese cat with a American shorthair cat bicolor. The resulting kittens did not have the pattern “point” (light colored body and dark colored tips), but they did carry the corresponding gene. So when they crossed cats Siamese, produced kittens with the desired appearance.

"Snowshoe cat"

Gato Snowshoe
Male Snowshoe cat – Editor.els.dc, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Dorothy Hinds-Daugherty decided to baptize these cats with the name of Snowshoe, in reference to its white paws, that give the impression that they have just walked through fresh snow. Although there is little written record of his work, it is accepted that he continued to cross these cats with siamese cats and the American shorthair cat, but also with him Sacred Cat of Burma (Birman), aiming to get a cat of type Siamese with white legs and a more rounded body.

One of these crosses with a American shorthair cat (black with white markings on the belly, the legs and the face) gave rise to the white mark in the form of “V” in the face, which is now a characteristic of the breed.

However, Dorothy Hinds-Daugherty stopped breeding and interest in the breed diminished, so in 1977 there was only one breeder, Vikki Ollander. He had already drawn up the first breed standard and was struggling to develop it. Then he received the support of Jim Hoffman and Georgia Kuhnell, who decided to raise themselves to Snowshoes. They were soon joined by other breeders and got the breed recognized by the American Cat Breeders Federation. (CFF) in 1983.

The Snowshoe arrived in Britain at the same time, and the first kennel of Snowshoe It was established in 1986. Soon a small group of breeders got together to form a breed club in the country., the Snowshoe UK Club. The Snowshoe cat received experimental breed status from the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF), the main feline organization in the country. However, just like in the United States, interest declined rapidly to the point that in 1998 Maureen Shackell she had become the only breeder in the whole country. Joined him Mollie Southall, and together, with a handful of copies, decided to revive the Snowshoe cat and recruit other breeders to form a breed club.

In 1995, the TICA (International Cat Association, one of the most important organizations in the world) finally recognized the Snowshoe and granted him the right to compete in cat shows organized under his auspices. The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) waited until 2003 to accept the Snowshoe as a race in its own right, and Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé) did the same in 2004. curiously, the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), the main American organization, still does not recognize the race, despite its local origins and the fact that every other organization in the country does: the American Association of Cat Enthusiasts (AACE), the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA) and Cat Fanciers Federation (CFF).

In France, the first litter of Snowshoe born in 2006, but it is still a very rare feline breed, with solo 43 specimens registered in the Official Book of Feline Origins (LOOF) between 2006 and 2019.

In fact, both in France and elsewhere, including your country of origin, still rare. The number of annual registrations in the British GCCF is certainly higher than in France, but the number is still limited: less than a hundred births a year (and even less than 50 in some years), and the trend seems even downward from 2015.

Physical characteristics

Snowshoe cat
Mr Slinky.–Champion Snowshoe cat with puurrfect markingsCooseman22 at the English Wikipedia project, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Snowshoe it is a cat foreign medium-sized.

It has a balanced appearance, a muscular body without being corpulent and great flexibility. His long and muscular legs are those of an athlete made to run and jump. Its tips are white, which gives the impression that the cat is wearing socks, or just walked through the snow, hence its name. The tail is sharp and of a length proportional to the rest of the body.

The head of the Snowshoe cat is shaped like a rounded triangle, with gently contoured cheekbones. It has a more or less well-defined marking in the shape of an inverted V, it should be white. The ears they are medium in size and rounded at the tip. The eyes they are also medium size, larger and rounder than the Siamese, but smaller than those of the Persian. They can be various shades of blue.

The fur is short, soft to the touch and dense. All are allowed colors of fur of the Siamese.

The kitties Snowshoe they are born completely white. Dot mark (darker fur on tail, the legs and the head) begins to appear within a few weeks and develops as the kitten grows.

The white markings on the tips of the legs and on the face differ from kitten to kitten. While the best show specimens have the same size stockings and a perfect V between the eyes, the vast majority of Snowshoes have more random marks, with different socks on each foot.

However, the sexual dimorphism is well marked in this breed, the female being smaller than the male.

Size and weight

  • Male size: 24 to 28 cm.
  • female size: 22-25 cm.
  • Male weight: 4-6 kg
  • female weight: 3 to 5 kg

Breed standard

The breed standards are documents produced by official bodies that list the conditions that a dog must meet. Snowshoe to be fully recognized as belonging to the race:

Character and skills

Snowshoe cat
Eight-month-old Snowshoe female puppy – Educasadocerrato, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Snowshoe gets along well and is affectionate with the whole family, but he is quick to choose his favorite human to spend most of his time with. He likes to be with his owner, whether sitting on the couch watching TV or lying at the desk working. This attachment makes him not tolerate loneliness and does not adapt to a person who is absent often.

They are sociable and get along well with other dogs and with other people, and can live in harmony in a home with other animals. However, have a possessive streak and may resent the fact that their owner is paying attention to another animal instead of them.

On the other hand, it is a breed of cat that adores children and, if they have been trained to behave well in the presence of an animal, can spend hours playing with them before taking a nap next to them.

The Snowshoe is intelligent, making it possible to teach your cat tricks, how to go looking for an object. However, it is the ability to teach his owner that makes him such a special companion. The owners of a Snowshoe cat they quickly learn when they want a reward, when they want to play or when they want to be scratched between their ears.

Active, this cat likes to take advantage of his physical abilities by running and jumping. Although they can live in a flat, Ideally, they should have access to an outdoor area where they can exercise freely.

The Snowshoe is also attracted to water and will play with a dripping faucet for a while. They also don't miss the opportunity to admire the eddies in the sink or toilet when someone flushes the toilet.. Some cats even accompany their owners in the shower, and others have learned to swim.

Another peculiarity of this cat is its propensity for kleptomania. Likes to pick up personal items, walk them around for a bit and then put them in one of your favorite spots, usually near your water bowl or in a sink.

Last, It is a breed of cat that meows a lot.: discuss any topic, whether it's dinner time or the newscaster's dress that its owner wants to see quietly. His voice is quite soft and melodic.

Health

The Snowshoe is a robust cat breed with little susceptibility to genetic diseases.

However, there have been some cases of renal polyquistosis, a genetic disease that causes the formation of numerous cysts in the kidneys. The existence of a genetic test for this disease can considerably reduce the risks, since a responsible breeder will systematically analyze the individuals that he considers for breeding and will exclude from breeding those that are carriers.

The Snowshoe has also inherited from Siamese a tendency to squint or have a crooked tail. However, these are purely cosmetic considerations and do not pose a threat to the cat's health.

However, like any indoor cat, the Snowshoe may be vulnerable to the greatest scourge of modern house cats: the Obesity. Although it is not especially prone to it, any responsible owner must ensure that their cat is healthy and does not gain more weight than it should.

Life expectancy

Of 12 to 15 years

Grooming

"Snowshoe cat"

Gato Snowshoe
Male Snowshoe cat – Editor.els.dc, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The maintenance of Snowshoe It is easy. In effect, as he is used to taking care of his fur himself, a simple weekly brushing to remove dead hairs and distribute the skin's protective sebum well is amply sufficient.

To make sure you stay healthy, it is advisable to take advantage of this grooming session to check their eyes and ears, and clean them if necessary.

It is also a good time to brush your cat's teeth to prevent plaque and the problems it can cause.. Having said that, more frequent brushing is ideal.

Last, when wear and tear and / or the use of a scratching post are not enough and your claws have become too long, must be trimmed with nail clippers to avoid injury.

Food

The Snowshoe it does not present any difficulties in terms of feeding and can be fed with commercial industrial cat food. However, it is important to ensure that the food is of good quality and provides all the nutrients and vitamins that the cat needs.

It also, to fully meet your needs, you must make sure that he eats a diet adapted to his age and activity level, and that the daily amounts recommended by the manufacturer or the veterinarian are respected.

Even if the Snowshoe not particularly prone to obesity, excessive weight gain is a warning sign that the owner should not ignore. If required, You have to go to the vet to rule out a disease and establish a more appropriate diet with him..

Last, like any cat, you must have fresh water at all times.

For sale "Snowshoe cat"

A kitten Snowshoe it costs about 1.200 EUR, and females tend to be somewhat more expensive than males.