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Honey Bears cat
The current RagaMuffin Cat

Content

History

The Honey Bears It was the version of the International Ragdoll Cat Association (IRCA) of the Traditional Persian cat.

The Honey Bears had been raised from a couple of persian cats and could be registered as Persian cat in the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA).


Ann Baker the Ragdoll creator

Ann Baker stated that the genes of the Skunk were infused into the female and that her kittens resembled the young skunks, born silver before turning black with stripes across the head, the back or the bottom. For the rest of the feline world, this sounds like shaded silvers develop their color.

Supposedly, cats had tails flattened on the sides - actually, an illusion caused by the long fur- that they held on their backs like skunks. Baker stated that the Honey Bears looked like a Persian cat, but he didn't have a cat skeleton.

Essentially, the cats were Persians and were even marketed as similar to hairless persians, but the breeding philosophies of Baker and the increasingly outlandish claims, made it impossible to register as Persian cat in conventional registers.

For practical purposes, the Honey Bears they were Persians, although of a less extreme type than those seen on the display bench. A few breeders persevered with them, but otherwise they were absorbed by the RagaMuffin cat.

Observations

The Foundation Cats RagaMuffin include only the lines of the Cherubim cat previously registered in the International Ragdoll Cat Association (IRCA) as:

Miracle Ragdolls

Solid, Tabby, mink, Sepia

“a highly updated Ragdoll Cat”

Honey Bears

All colors

IRCA verison/style de Older Type Persian

Maxamillions

Silver y Silver Tabbies

IRCA Ragdolls

Color Pointed only

Not the first copies of Cat Fancy Ragdolls

Note: Ann continued to develop more lines for a short time until her death in 1997 after the RagaMuffins were established as a separate race. These new fledgling lines were not used in the development of our RagaMuffins.: Ragdoll Tu, Catenoides, Ragdoll HobbyType, Baby Dolls, Angels, Shu Schoo, Symoneese / Symonees, Manxees, Fuzz

The founders were actively breeding the full spectrum of cat lines Cherubim in the International Ragdoll Cat Association (IRCA) until 1992, When, due to deteriorating health and stability of Ann, they decided to leave the IRCA and seek recognition as a race within the formal organizations of Cat Fancy.

His contracts with Ann stipulated that if the breeders continued to breed cats from the International Ragdoll Cat Association (IRCA) off your record, name “Ragdoll” could not be used to describe the cats produced. The name Cherubim had also been recorded by Ann at that time. So, even though the RagaMuffins they were in fact the cats Cherubim original, and that the logical thing would have been to keep Cherubim as breed name, the need arose for “change brand” to remain ethically faithful to their contracts.

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German Rex
Federations: FIFé, LOOF, WCF

The German Rex It is one of the rarest and most difficult cat breeds to find..
German Rex

Content

Characteristics "German Rex"

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "German Rex" 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 4.0 out of 5
4.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to other pets

Rated 4.0 out of 5
4.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to children

Rated 5.0 out of 5
5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Grooming requirements

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1.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Vocality

Rated 3.0 out of 5
3.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Need for attention

Rated 3.0 out of 5
3.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Affection towards its owners

Rated 5.0 out of 5
5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Docility

Rated 4.0 out of 5
4.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Intelligence

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4.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Independence

Rated 2.0 out of 5
2.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Hardiness

Rated 5.0 out of 5
5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

History

The German Rex It, as the name reflects, a breed of German cat. In 1930, in a village in the Prussian region of Königsberg (today Kaliningrad, in Russia), Ema Schneider's family had a curly-haired cat. Named Munk and born from a cross between a Angora cat and Russian Blue Cat, it is said to be the first Rex (name given in reference to Astrex rabbits, who also have curly hair) of the modern era. But, specialists consider that Munk is not the true creator of the breed German Rex, since it was never part of a breeding program and its descendants have not been identified.

German Rex
black german rex male – Bebopscrx, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The first german Rex officially appeared in the summer of 1951, when Dr.. Rose Scheuer-Karpin discovered a curly-haired black cat in the gardens of the hospital where she worked, la Hufelandklinik. Assuming it was a new mutation, he adopted Lämmchen (“little lamb” in German) and thus became the first breeder of german Rex.

The first litters of Lämmchen y Blackie, another cat adopted by Mrs Scheuer-Karpin, produced straight-haired kittens. But in 1957 The first two curly-haired kittens were born from the union between Lämmchen and one of these kittens named Fridolin.

When Lämmchen he crossed paths with another farm cat in the neighborhood, gave birth to three straight-haired kittens. Rose Scheuer-Karpin decided to stay with one of them, who he called blackie 2. Lamb and Blackie 2 they in turn produced kittens with curly hair, and it was clear that the gene responsible for the mutation was recessive. In other words, to have curly hair and, Therefore, be a Rex, the kitten must receive a mutated gene from each of its parents. On the other hand, an individual who has inherited only one mutated gene keeps his coat smooth, but you can pass on this gene and give birth to curly-furred kittens if crossed with a curly-furred individual, or even with an individual with smooth fur but also a carrier of the recessive gene.

Lämmchen died in 1964, leaving many cats carrying the gene, which were the basis for the development of the breed and were exported to various countries. This was the case in Great Britain, where they met him Cornish Rex, in order to diversify the gene pool of this breed. In France, Marco Polo, A male german Rex property of Professor Letard, It was the first to be exhibited in public in 1960 in a contest organized by the Feline Club of Paris.

But, due to the lack of a well-structured breeding program, and probably also to the almost simultaneous appearance of other breeds of curly-haired cats in Great Britain, the german Rex developed very little and was even on the brink of extinction in the early years 70.

In fact, although it was recognized by the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé) and the Livre Officiel des Origines Félines (LOOF) french in 1982, and then for the World Cat Federation (WCF, based in Germany), the german Rex remains confidential. Not recognized by several major organizations, as the British Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) or The International Cat Association (TICA), and is rarely present outside of its home country and its German-speaking neighbors (Switzerland and Austria).

La Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) does not recognize the German Rex as a race in its own right, considering that it is actually a Cornish Rex and registering their representatives as such.

In France, no individual with LOOF has been registered between 2003 and 2018, which makes it without a doubt one of the rarest cat breeds. All over the world, the cumulative number of registrations in the organizations that recognize it barely exceeds a few dozen a year.

Physical characteristics

The German Rex It is a medium-sized cat with a strong, muscular body and slender legs.. With regard to its height, corresponds to a European shorthair cat (Common european cat). The tail, average length, ends in a slightly rounded tip. On head round settle some ears slightly rounded with a wide base.

The most striking feature of the breed is the soft fur and regularly wavy. Due to the lack of top coat, the undercoat plush has a velvety appearance like that of a mole.

All the colors are allowed, except for chocolate, cinnamon and all its variations. It can also have any coat pattern: bicolor, tricolor, striped, but there should be no bald spots on the fur. The whiskers they are slightly shorter than in other cats and slightly curved.

Character and skills

German Rex

German Rex
German Rex – I, Bebopscrx, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The german rex they are affectionate and form a strong bond with their family, often seeking your attention. They do not tolerate arousal and noise very well, but they are just as reluctant to be alone.

They are sociable and enjoy the company of other dogs and may even befriend a dog used to cats.. So, it is usually not a problem when adopted by a family that already has animals, except if these are small rodents or birds, in which case some caution must be exercised.

As a playful and active cat, can be an excellent companion for a child, provided that he has learned to interact with him and respect him. But, if the child is small, you should never be left alone with the animal without adult supervision; this applies to all cats, regardless of race.

It also, although they are active and love to run, the German Rex it is a breed of cat suitable for a flat environment, to which it fits perfectly. They prefer the cozy comfort of a heated home to the sometimes harsh weather conditions of the outside world, but they enjoy napping on a sunny balcony in summer.

Intelligent, he likes to be stimulated with games, whether it's going to find an object thrown by its owner or trying to solve a puzzle for cats. Likes family fun and rarely refuses to chase a fake stuffed mouse or roll a ball of yarn around the house.

Once he's satiated, he likes to cuddle with his owner, that can thus enjoy the softness of its toothed fur and its reassuring purr.

At the end, His character is very similar to that of his cousin the Cornish Rex.

Grooming and caring for the "German Rex"

The German Rex it is an easy cat to care for, since its beautiful coat only needs a weekly brushing to maintain its shine.

During this grooming session, it is also important to check that the teeth are healthy and without cavities, that the eyes are clean and that the ears have not accumulated dirt. If this is the case, cleaning with a damp cloth will prevent the appearance of infection.

Last, a cat's nails should be trimmed regularly with a nail clipper, but the time interval between these manicures varies from individual to individual, depending on your level of activity and whether you use a scratching post to a greater or lesser extent.

Health and nutrition

German Rex
German Rex – I am looking for 4 legs
The German Rex is a healthy cat breed with no known risk of genetic disease. But, keep in mind that, due to its rarity, it is difficult to collect sufficient and reliable information to draw a definitive general conclusion.

Due to its fine fur, the German Rex, just like the cat Sphynx, you need more energy to maintain your body heat. For this reason, needs more food than other breeds. However, make sure you don't overfeed them and provide all the important nutrients.

Obesity can cause various heart and/or joint problems. So, it is advisable to weigh your cat regularly to ensure that it maintains a reasonable weight, and consult a vet if you are overweight.

Life expectancy

12 to 14 years

For sale "German Rex"

The price of a kitten German Rex varies between the 800 and 1.000 EUR, without there being a significant difference between males and females.

But, the German Rex is a very rare breed of cat, hard to find even in your home country, and there are few kittens available.

Videos "German Rex"

German Rex cat catches flies
German Rex Katze fängt Fliegen
HTTPS://youtu.be/mfHZSyO_ePw
German Rex. Pros and Cons, Price

Alternative names:

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Geoffroy's cat
Leopardus geoffroyi

The Geoffroy's cat it is a relatively unknown species to the general public, but not without reason. In fact, remains first and foremost a wild cat.
Geoffroy's Cat
Geoffroy’s Cat – Charles Barilleaux from Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Content

History

The Geoffroy's cat (Leopardus geoffroyi) is a small and little known spotted wild cat native to central and southern South America. Etienne Geoffroy Saint- Hilary (1772-1844), 19th century French zoologist who gives his name to Geoffroy's cat, studied this animal when he was a professor of zoology in Paris. During your study, identified five subspecies based on their geographic dispersion:

  • Leopardus geoffroyi geoffroyi – Central Argentina
  • Leopardus geoffroyi euxantha – North of Argentina, West of Brazil
  • Leopardus geoffroyi leucobapta – Patagonia
  • Leopardus geoffroyi paraguae – Paraguay, southeast of Brazil, Uruguay
  • Leopardus geoffroyi salinarum – Northwest and central Argentina

Physical characteristics

"Geoffroy's cat"

Gato de Geoffroy
Geoffrey's cat, taken at the Cincinnati Zoo. Photo by Greg Hume – Greg Hume, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Geoffroy's cat has small black spots that evenly cover its fur with little variation in size and spacing. Its fur varies from an orange-brown color in the northern areas to a gray color in the southernmost areas with numerous shades between them., but completely black coats have been found to be common. Like most wild cats, the fur on its belly is pale in color ranging from cream to white. Its tail and limbs are covered with dark rings, almost equally spaced.

The Geoffroy's cat is the size of an average domestic cat, with an average of about 60 centimeters (24 inches) from the head to the base of the tail and an average of about 30 centimeters (12 inches). Males weigh an average of 4,5 kg (10 pounds), while females weigh an average of 3,6 kg (8 pounds), although individuals weighing up to 7,7 kg (17 pounds).

When samples were compared between regions, only the mass of the male cat varied with geographic location. Those found in the southern part of their range are usually larger than those in the north, although no correlation was found between body mass and latitude.

Unusual among wild cats and cats in general, it has been observed that geoffroy's cats stand up on their hind legs to scan the surrounding area. Some individuals from geoffroy's cats live more than 20 years in captivity, but, average, wild cats usually live up to 14 years.

Habits and skills

Geoffroy's cat
Baby Geoffrey’s Cat – Steve Jurvetson from Menlo Park, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The geoffroy's cats are nocturnal and their activities peak in the middle of the night. They tend to spend most of their time on the ground, but they are able to climb trees and can swim very well, as the locals call them “fishing cats” for its ability to easily enter the water.

Like lonely hunters, the Geoffroy's cat only comes into contact with others during the mating season. It has been described as an opportunistic predator, which means that it will feed on whatever is most abundant in its area or easiest to prey. Small mammals are their most frequent prey, representing at least the 63,3% of their primary diet in each season, while birds are the most hunted during the warmer seasons.

The geoffroy's cats they tend to use grasslands and marshes for hunting and lounging and use forest views to mark their scent. Seasonal differences in their diet were markedly greater between the warmer and colder seasons., suggesting that the diet was limited by seasonal fluctuation and prey availability.

Distribution

The geoffroy's cats they inhabit the grasslands of the Andes pampas, in the deserts and semi-deserts of Mount, in the dry forests and savannas of the Gran Chaco landscape, from southern Bolivia to the Strait of Magellan, at a height of up to 3.300 meters above the sea level. The total size of the range of these cats is, on average, of about 8,83 km2, while the main habitat these cats frequently visit only encompasses 1,46 km2. When observed in nature, the geoffroy's cats who lived in habitats modified by ranches and cattle grazing were more active, they had wider ranges and traveled greater distances than those found in protected areas.

Conservation status

Geoffroy's Cat
Leopardus geoffroyi (Geoffroy’s Cat), Karlsruhe Zoo, Germany – Daf-de, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In the news, the Geoffroy's cat is almost threatened and, though not in immediate danger, you are at risk.

The geoffroy's cats suffer from very high hunting pressure outside their protected area, which currently constitutes one of its greatest threats to conservation. But, the exploitation of their skins for the illegal fur trade industry between the years 60 and 80, it is estimated that some 350.000 skins only between 1976 and 1978.

Since the middle of the years 80, hunting and trade in their skins have decreased significantly, but it's still one of your biggest threats. In a recent study using camera traps, It is estimated that the population density of the Geoffroy's cat is of some 9-40 individuals for each 100 km2. Although the population size is currently unknown, we believe the population is declining and thinning. But, they are still occasionally killed when seen as pests or as predators of livestock. These skins can be seen in circulation within the local illegal trade.

In the center of Argentina, man-made mortality represents the 62% of the known deaths of the Geoffroy's cat, including poaching, death by domestic dogs and collisions with vehicles. Another factor contributing to their danger is the overwhelming demand for them by the exotic pet trade.

The "Geoffroy's cat" in captivity

The Geoffroy's cat it is a relatively unknown species to the general public, but not without reason. In fact, remains first and foremost a wild cat: if it can withstand the presence of man in its natural environment or even be bred in captivity, It is unlikely, on the other hand, that can be tamed.

Nonetheless, these cats are illegally caught and bred with domestic cats, which produces hybrid cats and reduces the total population. Critical forests and habitats are rapidly being lost to human causes, like deforestation, but unlike other species that depend heavily on their habitat, the Geoffroy's cat has learned to adapt and to use open areas as well. Currently, the Geoffroy's cat is protected in Argentina, but due to the lack of information available on its natural history, it is not possible to develop an adequate and scientifically sound conservation strategy to protect this animal.

Videos "Geoffroy's cat"

GEOFFROY CAT Species Spotlight

Salt Cat: The Ghost of South America

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Havana brown cat
Federations: CFA, TICA, AACE, ACFA/CAA, CCA-AFC

The Havana brown he is an affectionate cat, friendly and intelligent. It also, unlike its ancestor the Siamese, it is quite calm and serene.

Habana marrón

Content

Characteristics "Havana brown cat"

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Havana brown 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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4.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Activity level

Rated 3.0 out of 5
3.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to other pets

Rated 3.0 out of 5
3.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to children

Rated 3.0 out of 5
3.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Grooming requirements

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1.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Vocality

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1.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Need for attention

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5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Affection towards its owners

Rated 4.0 out of 5
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Docility

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3.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Intelligence

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Independence

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Hardiness

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History

The Havana brown He is a descendant of the famous Siamese. Its origins date back to the fourteenth century in the Kingdom of Siam, current Thailand. The brown cats were described and represented together with the Siamese and the Korat cat in numerous manuscripts of poems and paintings found in the city of Ayutthaya, which was then the capital of the kingdom. They were considered very beautiful, but above all, good luck charms for their owners.

These chocolate-colored felines were among the first to be imported from Siam to the UK, where they arrived at the end of the 19th century. The texts of this time, like the writings of an English breeder named Madame French and passages from Frances Simpson's book of 1903 The Cat Book, describe a Siamese cat with brown fur and blue-green eyes.

It is probable that not all imported cats of this color were of the same breed and that among them there were burmese, Siamese and the Tonkinese cat (a cruce enters Burmese and Siamese). But, it is difficult to differentiate the breeds from the available writings and drawings.

In any case, It was at this time that the term was coined “swiss mountain cats” to designate cats with this particularity. But, historians cannot establish whether it covered all chocolate-colored specimens imported from Thailand in the late 19th century, or only those of one or more specific races.

Brown cats were exhibited in Europe in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. At an exhibition held in England in 1888, one of them won the first prize, which tends to show that felines of this type enjoyed a certain visibility and popularity at the time. This is corroborated by the fact that in 1928, in another exhibition held in Great Britain, the British Siamese Cat Club went on to award a special prize to the chocolate-colored specimens.

Just two years later, in 1930, god a ride, promoting only the breeding of cats Siamese blue-eyed. But, a large majority of brown individuals had green eyes and not blue, so they were suddenly excluded from competitions organized under the aegis of the organization. Logically, breeders began to abandon this color, and the number of individuals wearing it drastically decreased.

This decline continued until the years 50, when a group of British breeders, among which were Baroness Miranda Von Ullman and Anne Hargreaves, they set out to give these cats a new life. They studied the inheritance of the chocolate gene and launched a breeding program based on their research.. New crosses were made between Siamese chocolate-colored, domestic cats blacks and the Russian Blue Cat, which resulted in the tan brown as we know it today. The first kitten regarded as a Havana brown was born in the UK in 1952 and it was called Elmtower Bronze Idol. Result of a cross between a Siamese cat seal point carrier of the chocolate gene and a black cat also carrier of the gene, became one of the founders of the breed.

The main British feline organism, the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF), recognized the new breed in 1958 as Chestnut Brown Foreign. Twelve years later, in 1970, was replaced by the Havana brown. There are two opposing hypotheses to explain the choice of this name: the first is that it refers to its brown color similar to tobacco, while the other claims that it comes from a breed of rabbit of the same color called Havana.

Even before its official recognition in Great Britain, the breed had taken its first steps in the United States. In fact, after coming into contact with Mrs.. From Ullman, an American breeder named Elsie Quinn imported two cats into 1956. A selection process was started somewhat different from that of the United Kingdom, so soon the American and English types were differentiated. This is still the case today, the first being more massive than the second, whose morphology is long and thin, apparently modeled on that of the Siamese.

The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) accepted the breed in 1964, and The International Cat Association (TICA) did the same in 1979. Both took the North American version of the breed as a reference., whose features differed significantly from the British model recognized by the GCCF: the latter had a longer and thinner oriental morphology. Despite this formalization of the existence of two very different types of cats, the name remained the same for all bodies: Havana brown. In 1983, the TICA accepted the lilac color in its standard, whereas until then only the color chocolate was allowed. Quite consistently, decided at the same time to change the name with which he recognizes the breed, in favor of him Havana. In France, the Livre Officiel des Origines Félines (LOOF) did the same and began to accept the lilac color, but kept the denomination Havana brown.

In United States, the beginning of the years 90 was characterized by the loss of interest in breeding this breed, whose number dropped a lot. The breed became especially rare and, at the end of the decade, the CFA only had 12 hatcheries and some 130 representatives of the breed throughout the country.

The situation worried some breeders, who feared that the cats would disappear. They contacted Dr.. Leslie Lyons, who was then working at the California Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, so that with your help they could develop a breeding program. The analyzes of the genome of the Havana brown revealed excessive inbreeding. In other words, a healthy development of the breed was only possible if new individuals were introduced in the breeding programs.

Thus, the breeders asked the CFA to open the breed to new crosses, what was accepted by the organization in 1997. Since that year, it has been possible to cross the brown Havana with siamese cats Seal Point and Chocolate Point, Oriental Longhair cat, as well as with domestic cats blacks and blues not beggars in the United States. If the individuals born from these crosses are brown, are recognized by the CFA as Havana brown. On the other hand, regardless of its color, if they cross paths with the Havana brown, their offspring is considered by the organization as Havana brown.

This show turned out to be a success: expanded the breed's gene pool and kept it healthy, at the same time that it allowed to continue increasing the number of dogs in the country. These authorizations are still valid today., but they are still exclusive to the United States, since organizations from other countries do not allow these crossings.

But, the surge in popularity was short-lived, and the Havana brown is now at the bottom of the CFA's annual enrollment rankings, in the post 42 of 45 in 2018, after falling steadily in previous years. These may include, early in the decade 2010, rather occupied the position 30 or 35.

But, the problem of the lack of diversity in the different lines also arose in other places, like the UK. During the decade of the 90, some changes in the selection of Havana brown and the Siamese modified the quality of the fur of the latter and other morphological parameters, what some people did not like.

In 1996, a breeder named Joan Judd expressed concern about the future of the breed, What, in addition to these changes away from its original appearance, suffered from a clear lack of representation. He wrote an article explaining, among other things, that the Havana brown couldn't survive without an influx of foreign blood. Under your direction, a small group of breeders, among which were Mrs.. P. Sharp-Popple, la Sra. S. Miller and Linda and Charlie Spendlove, selected some specimens and developed a joint breeding program called Pure Havana. As such, the Sr. and mrs. Spendlove imported a subject from the French breeding of Claire Rassat. Christened St Evroult Gatsby, was initially registered with the GCCF as a Havana brown.

In view of its traditional pattern, breed enthusiasts Havana brown The modern model did not look favorably on the five litters it produced and complained to the GCCF, requesting that St Evroult Gatsby be removed from the breeding program. But, they came across a number of enthusiasts who had noticed the qualities of the traditional model through this small group of cats, and defended him before the association. The GCCF then proposed that these cats form a new breed, which was baptized as Suffolk and officially recognized by the organization in 2014. So, the Suffolk is considered a separate breed from the Havana brown, although it is very similar to him. It can be chocolate or lilac color. 13 Suffolks were registered with the organization in 2018, and 35 in 2019.

In France, the Havana brown is very underrepresented. The number of people registered each year in the LOOF does not exceed fifteen, for a total of 108 between 2010 and 2019.
Worldwide, its total population is estimated to be no more than a thousand, so it is still a rare feline breed.

Physical characteristics

"Havana brown cat"

Habana brown
Un chat de race Havana Brown – Dave Scelfo from Point Pleasant Beach, NJ, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Havana brown it is a medium size cat, long-legged, with good muscles and strong bones.

The legs are straight. They are finer and more delicate in females than in males. They also have the most developed muscles, so its slenderness and length are less striking than in the female.

Regardless of gender, the hind legs they are longer than the front ones. The feet they are oval shaped, compact and the pads are pink.

However, keep in mind that there are two versions of the Havana brown: the american and the english. The first is usually more muscular and massive than the second, that preserves the longest and slimmest body of the oriental cats.
In both cases, the tail is fine and of medium length.

The neck It is also medium in size and proportional to the size of the body. View from the top, the head it is longer than it is wide, and ends in a rounded nose with a clear break on either side of it. This is a distinctive trait of the breed, which must be clearly visible. The chin is well developed and square. Ideally, it should form a nearly perpendicular angle to the nose.

The ears they are wide and rounded at the tip. Are leaning forward, which gives the appearance of being always alert.

The eyes they are medium in size and oval in shape, wide apart and bright. They give you an alert and always expressive expression and are necessarily green, accepting all shades of this color.

The fur of the Havana brown it is made up of short hair, smooth and shiny. All shades of brown accepted, but a reddish brown color is generally preferred (Mahogany) to a blackish brown color. Some organizations, like LOOF and TICA, they also accept lilac, But not all. Whatever the color of the cat's coat, should be uniform throughout your body. Kittens can be born with tabby markings, but these normally disappear as they grow.

The whiskers they are also brown.

Last, the sexual dimorphism it is quite marked, being the male heavier than the female, although its size is quite similar.

Size and weight-

  • Male size: Of 25-30 cm.
  • female size: 25-30 cm.
  • Male weight: 3,5-4,5 kg
  • female weight: 2,5-3,5 kg

Varieties of "Havana brown cat"

Havana Brown
Havana Brown – Dave Scelfo from Point Pleasant Beach, NJ, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Havana brown cat It was developed mainly in the United Kingdom and the United States. But, the selections made and the breeding programs applied were significantly different between these two countries, so over the years two different models emerged: the Havana brown of English type and the of American type.

The former has a very long morphology and is close to its cousins ​​and ancestors from the East, especially the Siamese. It is a very fine and muscular cat.

As for him Havana brown American, it is more solid and round, deviating from the elongated morphology to sometimes approach the semi-free type. Although more rectangular and strong, it is no less elegant.

Another example is the Suffolk, created in the early 21st century by British enthusiasts of the Havana brown who opposed the evolution that the race was experiencing in their country. The Suffolk it's a kind of Havana brown traditional, as opposed to the modern version that is now in the country. The GCCF recognized his work in 2014, recognizing it as a breed in its own right.

Character and skills

The Havana brown he is an affectionate cat, friendly and intelligent. It also, unlike its ancestor the Siamese, it is quite calm and serene.

He is also more adaptable than most of his peers., since it is not one of those who are scared by a change of environment, for example. This flexibility makes it a good option for someone who wants to take their cat on vacation or is moving frequently., for example.

To be happy and at ease, this constantly seeking attention-loving companion needs a lot of interaction with humans. He likes to follow his master around the house and accompany him in housework. So, needs an owner who is present often and who does not fail to show him that he loves him every day. This makes it a very good cat breed choice for an older person., and a very bad one for an active person who spends most of his time away from home.

Very tactile, does not shy away from contact with its owner. On the other hand, you like to physically interact with him, with a marked tendency to touch him stretching the leg to attract his attention. He also uses his paw a lot to examine things that are interesting to him.

These qualities make it an ideal cat for children., especially since he never tires of playing for hours.

On the other hand, can be exclusive, as close to its owners as it is shy and distant with strangers, at least at the beginning.

Usually, they get along very well with other animals, including dogs, provided they are gradually introduced or, even better, from an early age. But, it is advisable to take some precautions if you are brought to live with rodents, birds or fish, since the Havana brown is a great player and his ability to find in any object -or small animal- an exciting toy is awesome. Be careful to store her socks and other small items that are easy to transport, or you may not see them again. Having said that, the games he likes the most are those that involve interaction with their owner. It is an excellent candidate to teach your cat tricks, and also excels at solving puzzles.

Last, if he is not as talkative as the Siamese, nevertheless likes to chat with its owners through soft meows.

Havana brown
Havana brown – Flickr

Grooming and caring for the "Havana brown cat"

The Havana brown it is an easy-care cat.

Needs weekly brushing but sheds very little, except during the shedding season in spring and fall, when more frequent brushing is necessary - often daily- to prevent hair from accumulating in the house. Finishing brushing with a felt or hand cloth helps remove dead hair that has resisted brushing. Bathing is seldom necessary.

Ears and eyes should also be checked regularly, ideally once a week, to avoid infections, and get cleaned up as soon as needed.

Your weekly maintenance session is also an opportunity to brush your cat's teeth., in order to avoid the formation of tartar and all the risks that it entails. Having said that, the ideal is a more regular brushing.

Last, Since the Havana brown he does not usually go abroad much -if he does-, the natural wear of its claws is usually insufficient. So, they need to be examined regularly to trim them when they get too long, in order to prevent them from being hindered in their movements and / or injuring themselves. It is highly recommended that you provide him with a scratching post so that he can wear them down himself and don't have to do it as often.

If your pet is used to being handled from a young age, will perfectly accept these different treatments.

Indoor or outdoor cat?

He loves to play and run around the house and spends a lot of time, but it is a perfect indoor cat, fully satisfied with a life in a flat, as long as their owners are present and they have enough games to keep busy. Even if I have access to the outside, it's not where you like to spend most of your time. So, you don't need a garden to adopt a cigar, that is something sensitive to cold.

How much activity does he need? "Havana brown cat"?

The Havana brown they are not sleepy. You should offer your roommate some job opportunities. This is important to this intelligent breed when you are away.. This domestic cat loves to play with his human. Learning little tricks is not a problem. This need for activity can be exhausting after a day at work.. An alternative would be a cat companion of the same age and temperament as a balance.

Health and nutrition

"Havana brown cat"

Habana brown
Havana brown – Maewboran, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Havana brown enjoys, in general, Of good health.

But, may be prone to developing calcium oxylate stones in the urinary tract. If it is not attended on time, can lead to blockage of the cat's urinary tract. Cats prone to this problem should drink plenty of water to avoid stone formation as much as possible.

Some cats can also suffer from upper respiratory tract infections, that is to say, those that affect the nose, sinuses, pharynx and larynx, When you are young. Among them is chlamydia, for which there is a vaccine, which can be a smart investment to maximize the chances of keeping your cat healthy. In general, the general symptoms of a respiratory infection are fever, sneezing, tos, watery eyes or a runny nose.

Last, the Havana brown is sensitive to cold. In any case, it is not an outdoor cat, but it is important to ensure that it does not come out when the temperatures are very low.

Life expectancy

15 years

Food

A quality industrial cat food is perfectly suitable for the Havana brown, that is not a demanding cat. As with any cat, you simply have to adapt the daily ration to your level of physical activity and your age.

In any case, not the type of cat who likes to eat too much: is a teether and very rarely suffers from obesity. Once you've made sure your cat is no exception that proves the rule, food can be left at your disposal at all times without risking health problems, since it is capable of self-regulation.

On the other hand, an individual prone to urinary stone problems should be encouraged to drink heavily. As in the case of any cat, fresh water must be available at all times, but the owner can add some milk, tuna juice or ice cubes to the water bowl to encourage the cat to drink more.

For sale "Havana brown cat"

In Europe, the price of a kitten Havana brown usually oscillates between 900 and 1100 EUR. The price difference between male and female cats is quite small, normally it does not exceed one hundred euros.

In North America, the price range is much wider, oscillating between 600 and 1.500 $.

whatever the country, the main parameters that affect the price are its greater or lesser conformity with the breed standard, the reputation of the cattery and the origins of the kitten. Another important factor is color: a Havana brown reddish, for example, is more prized than a blackish brown specimen and, Therefore, likely to sell at a higher price.

In any case, what is rare is usually expensive, and this cat is no exception. There are few hatcheries of Havana brown in North America, and even less in Europe. So, it can be quite difficult for a future owner to find their rare gem.

Videos "Havana brown cat"

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TOP 10 HAVANA BROWN CATS BREEDS
Coco Chanel - Chocolate Cat - Havana Brown - Siamese - Kitten - Gorgeous
Coco Chanel – Chocolate Cat – Havana Brown

Alternative names:

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Highlander cat (Highland Lynx)
Federations: TICA

The Highlander cat is a relatively new breed, the first litter back to the year 2004. This race is a little rare, to remove doubts it is registered with the International Cat Association (TICA) as a new preliminary certification.

Content

Characteristics "Highlander cat (Highland Lynx)"

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Highlander cat (Highland Lynx)" you know certain factors. You must take into account their character, their need for exercise, their interaction with other pets, their care and if you have small children, their level of tolerance towards them.

Joy

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Activity level

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Friendliness to other pets

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Friendliness to children

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Grooming requirements

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Vocality

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Need for attention

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Affection towards its owners

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Docility

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Intelligence

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Independence

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Hardiness

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History

The Highland Lynx, better known today as Highlander cat, it was created in 1993 by crossing two hybrid cat breeds, the Jungle Curl and the Desert lynx. But, despite its exotic name, This breed of cat does not have an iota of blood from its distant wild cousin, the Lynx. The desire to create a Domestic cat with the appearance of a wild cat with curved ears was the main reason for its creation and for the choice of its name.

Since the appearance of the breed, the breeders of Highland Lynx they have continued to select and perfect the physical features of this very special cat to distinguish it from its parent, the Desert lynx cat.

Your efforts are beginning to pay off. Like this, although the highland lynx is still considered by the Rare and Exotic Feline Registry as a subgroup of the Desert lynx cat, as the Alpine Lynx and the Mohave Bobs, is starting to emerge at feline shows as a breed in its own right. The name change in 2005 to Highlander was seen by the breeder community as a strong sign of demarcation.

The 1 in May of 2008, the breed was recognized by the International Cat Association (TICA) to participate in the feline shows organized under his auspices in the preliminary class of new breeds, reserved for new breeds that can enter competitions, but do not participate in them. Eight years later, in 2016, rose to the category of New Advanced Race, which means that he could compete but not win any official prize. The application of the breed to participate in presentations as a competition breed (final status which means official recognition) is being considered in 2019. It should be noted that the TICA divides the Highlander in two varieties: the Highlander Shorthaire for short-haired specimens, and the Highlander Longhair. Other international feline associations, as the Fédération Internationale Féline (Fife), the Cat Fanciers Association wave Word Cat Federation they still don't recognize the breed.

Despite TICA approval and resulting visibility, the Highlander not yet widely distributed outside its country of origin, United States. There are some breeders of Highland Lynx in Canada and Europe (France and UK), but your number remains confidential.

Physical characteristics

Highlander
Highlander CatDigitalDirt, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Highland Lynx has a physical look that is sure to attract attention when you walk into a room. With his muscles, his curved ears, its short tail and brindle fur reminiscent of its distant wild cousins, the Highlander He is as imposing as his cousin the Desert lynx cat, if not more.

Bigger than the average cat, the Highlander has a body powerful, with well-defined muscles that show in every movement. Its torso is quite developed and its long hind legs end in large feet with prominent joints.

The polydactyly in cats, that is to say, To have more “fingers” on each leg than normal, It is very common in Highlanders, regardless of kinship. This feature does not pose any risk to the animal's health.. On the other hand, it can even be an advantage, as it provides more stability in your movements.

Another physical feature of Highlander is your tail naturally shortened, to the point of having only between 5 and 15 centimeters in length. It also, it is thick and can be straight or curly. This anomaly does not influence the cat's daily behavior or its health either.. He even tends to wag his tail to express his mood, like a dog.

Last, the head and the face of Highlander are generally longer than wide. Its forecrown long, their nose wide and its chin deep and pronounced form a rather rectangular face. The Greats eyes oval and flattened can vary in color between gold, blue and green, and they are especially expressive. The ears, with wide bases and curved tips, are placed high on the skull, alerts and open. This last characteristic develops in the first months after the birth of the kittens., who initially have straight ears.

Last, a wide variety of coat colors and patterns are accepted. Those with short hair tend to have a softer and denser coat than those with long hair..

Size and weight

  • Size: 25 to 40 cm.
  • Male weight: 5 to 11 kg
  • female weight: 4 to 7 kg

Varieties of "Highlander cat (Highland Lynx)"

The standard of the Highland Lynx accepts all feline coat colors: ebony, blue, Brown, leonado, chocolate, lilac, Red and cream, as well as all silver variants, sepia, snow, mink and cameo.

But, the breeders of Highlander currently prefer three coat patterns to maintain the look “Wild” of the race:

The leopard pattern
  • It consists of a tabby with dark spots on the flanks and belly of the cat. The size of the spots can vary, but they must be evenly distributed. Rosette-shaped spots are preferable (almost full circle, with a center lighter than the edges). A dark dorsal line, ideally made up of small spots, should travel the length of the cat's spine to the tail. The face has brindle markings. Ghost spots (marks that fade as the cat sheds and ages) are preferred for snow colors, cuttlefish and mink.
The leonado pattern
  • The coat is brindle all over the body, with more pronounced brindle markings on the legs, tail and face. Collar markings are usually present on the neck and chest, but they are not essential.
The marbled pattern (the cloudy leopard)
  • It is a variation of the brindle brand, but with horizontal guidelines instead of vertical. Colors must be contrasted, with well-defined shapes and contours. The belly is stained.

Accepted Highlanders smooth or brindle, but they are less desirable, as they are closer to the look of a Domestic cat.

Character and skills

Highland cat
Highland cat reclined – TAnthony, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Despite his wild looks, the Highlander is far from sharing the temperament of his cousins, starting with his circumspection and shyness. In fact, it's the opposite. In fact, it is one of the most affectionate cat breeds. This character trait, as well as its tendency to follow its owner everywhere, has earned him the nickname of “cat dog”.

A giant with a kind heart, quickly becomes familiar with his new surroundings and soon demands a lot of attention and caresses from everyone who enters his home. This applies even to strangers, those who do not hesitate to touch, if you are encouraged to do so. Sometimes he even goes out to party with his master and follows him around when he comes back from work., without the noise and the drool. In other words, not a suitable breed of cat for a master who is away often, that you would do better to opt for an independent cat.

On the other hand, unlike other affectionate cat breeds, the Highlander not talkative: shows your affection through your movements and attitude, not through your voice.

This personable and patient character makes them ideal for a family with children., provided they are not too agitated in your presence. Moderating the ardor of the youngest is all the more necessary since the mountaineer has an excellent memory and, Therefore, tends to run away from people with whom the first exchanges have been random.

It is possible to have more than one cat at home, since the Highlander is generally sociable with other cats. But, it is important to avoid bringing two unsterilized males together.

Cohabitation of your cat with a dog should not be a problem either, since they also get along very well with dogs, sharing the same devotion to their master. In fact, It is not uncommon to see that they quickly start playing together once they have been introduced..

It also, his intelligence and excellent memory make him a perfect student to teach your cat tricks and games, like the recovery of balls. An indoor cat perfectly adapted to life in an apartment and not to that of a garden cat, however requires distractions and activities between two naps. Playing with your cat on a regular basis will allow him to channel his energy while maintaining his powerful muscles, and it will prevent you from destroying everything in the house to get your attention.

Last, the Highland Lynx he is a water-loving cat, whether it's watching a faucet run for hours or getting sprayed during a gaming session.

Health

The Highland Lynx is a new breed of cat and breeders have not yet identified any specific disease.

However, It's recommended that, before making any purchase, the cat's parental history and vaccination record is checked to ensure that all its vaccinations are up to date.

Grooming

Depending on the hair length of the Highland Lynx, maintaining the cat's coat may require more or less work. The longer the coat, more regularly you will need to brush your cat (about twice a week), to help you groom. In any case, it is best to accustom your cat to being brushed from a young age, since older cats do not appreciate this type of attention if they are not familiar with it.

It is also important to monitor and maintain your cat's ears. Dirt or excess wax can collect in the cartilage folds, causing discomfort and infections. Cleaning your cat's ears regularly will go a long way in preventing this problem..

Food

The Highland Lynx does not have a special sensitivity to food. It also, provided that the food is of good quality and is adapted to the dietary and energy needs of the cat, there is no risk of him becoming overweight.

However, keep in mind that the Highlander tends to drink more than other cats. So, it is even more important that they always have access to fresh water.

For sale "Highlander cat (Highland Lynx)"

The price of a kitten Highland Lynx ranges between 700 and 900 EUR.

Videos "Highlander cat (Highland Lynx)"

Highlander | Cats 101
Highlander | Cats 101
Meet Gadget the Highlander Cat
Meet Gadget the Highlander Cat

Alternative names:

  • Highland Lynx, Highlander Shorthair

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Highland fold cat
Federations: TICA, LOOF

The Highland fold He is also known for his amazing poses: can be seen sleeping on his back, sitting on its hindquarters or standing on its hind legs.
Highland fold
Highland fold – hillspet

Content

Characteristics "Highland fold cat"

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Highland fold 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 5.0 out of 5
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Activity level

Rated 4.0 out of 5
4.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to other pets

Rated 4.0 out of 5
4.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to children

Rated 5.0 out of 5
5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Grooming requirements

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5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Vocality

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1.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Need for attention

Rated 2.0 out of 5
2.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Affection towards its owners

Rated 5.0 out of 5
5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Docility

Rated 4.0 out of 5
4.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Intelligence

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Independence

Rated 4.0 out of 5
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Hardiness

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5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

History

The history of Highland fold cat is inextricably linked to that of your partner, the Scottish fold, what is a Highland shorthair.

Their common ancestor appeared in 1961 in a little Scottish town called Coupar Angus, near the mountainous regions of the north of the country (the Highlands). Call Susie, this white cat with her ears folded forward is the origin of all cats Highland fold cat. He might have remained anonymous on the MacRae farm where he lived if a herdsman named William Ross hadn't noticed his distinctive ears.. In 1963 adopted Snooks, one of Susie's daughters, who also had white fur and folded ears.

But, folded ears in cats are nothing new. Specimens of this type had already been reported in the past., and already in 1796 John Hinton wrote in his Universal Knowledge Magazine about wild cats that lived in China and displayed such attributes.. In the 19th century, it is said that several sailors brought this type of cats from Asia, and in 1975, in his book The Guide to the Cats of the World, Loxton claimed that these forward-folding-eared cats had always existed in China..

But it was Susie and her daughter Snooks who originated the breed. Highland fold. In their first litter, Snooks gave birth to a male named Snowball - in reference to his white fur- which in turn was crossed with Lady May, a white short haired british. All five kittens from this union had folded ears., And so began the story of the Scottish fold.

Originally baptized as “Lops” by William Ross and his wife Mary, the breed was named after Scottish fold in 1966, cuando el Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) granted it official recognition and allowed its exhibition in feline exhibitions, where it had a great success. At the same time, a breeding program was created.

But, the work done by various English geneticists, as Peter Dyte and Oliphant Jackson, revealed a relationship between curved ears and arthritis propensity in cats. Already concerned about the possible increased risk of ear infections and deafness caused by this anatomical feature (fears that were later proven unfounded), the GCCF decided on 1971 revoke your previous decision and, Therefore, stop accepting this breed.

In the news, the GCCF continues to maintain its position of not recognizing the Highland fold (nor its short-haired equivalent, the Scottish fold), arguing that the folded ears are due to a genetic mutation that is linked to potentially disabling bone problems for the animal. In this arbitration he had the support of the British Veterinary Association.

The salvation of the race came from the United States, Where, in 1970 The doctor. Neil Todd had imported three of Snooks' daughters to Newtonville, Massachusetts, to study their genetic mutations. But, he soon left his research project and one of these cats, called Denisla Hester, was hosted by Salle Wolf Peters, a cat breeder Manx.

Everything followed quickly, so that in 1972 the breed was presented at an exhibition organized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), one of the leading organizations in the country. The interest was immediate and several breeders decided to develop the breed. The CFA supported them in their efforts and in 1974 allowed the registration of these cats as an experimental breed.

Aware of the risk of osteoarthritis associated with the genetic mutation that caused the folded ears, American breeders followed the recommendations of Dr.. Oliphant Jackson and brought new blood to the breed, crossing it abundantly with the American shorthair cat and the European shorthair cat (Common european cat), crosses that are still allowed today. This diversification effort paid off: arthritis cases decreased. In 1978, the CFA definitively recognized the Scottish fold. The TICA (International Cat Association) did the same the following year, in 1979.

From the beginning, long hairs have appeared in litters of Scottish fold, and Susie and her daughter Snooks were likely carriers of a recessive gene for long hair, that was passed on but could only be expressed if the kitten received another recessive gene for long hair. Probable crosses with the Persian Cat, as well as the crosses with the European shorthair cat (Common european cat) which in turn were the result of crosses with Persians, contributed other long-haired genes, so that individuals born with long hair became increasingly common.

From the years 80, began to arouse real interest and recognition from some organizations. But, even today, this recognition varies greatly between countries and cat organizations.

The CFA considers them as a simple variety of the Scottish fold, while the TICA grants them from 1979 full breed status, under the name of Scottish Fold longhair. On the other hand, some organizations do not recognize them at all, neither as a variety nor as a race. Is the case, for example, of the FIFé (Fédération Internationale Féline) and the British GCCF.

In France, the Livre Officiel des Origines Félines (LOOF) considers it as a separate breed, denominada Highland Fold. It also, the Highland fold without folded ears have also been recognized by the LOOF as a distinct breed since 2009, and they are registered as Highland Straight.

The Highland fold came to France in the decade of 1980, but it took time to become a success. In the early years of the 21st century, for example, there were still no more than fifteen registrations a year at the LOOF, and about forty at the end of his first decade. Then this figure grew exponentially until it reached about 250 copies a year ten years later. The Highland Straight, recognized only from 2009, experienced an even more spectacular increase, going from a score of individuals registered in the first year to almost 500 at the end of the Decade of 2010, that is to say, twice as much as him Highland fold.

Highland Fold
Highland Fold breed kitten, female, 8 months old – Aqetz, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Physical characteristics

The Highland fold it is a medium-sized cat with strong bones, looking agile and flexible despite her curvaceous body. The body is supported by legs relatively short and robust and is prolonged with a rather long and tapered tail that ends in a curve.

Its chin and their jaws well defined, as well as their cheekbones prominent, dan a su head a round shape. Their eyes, which are usually coppery in color but can be many other colors, especially blue in the case of white fur cats, they are also wide and round.

But it is the ears, short and rounded, the ones that make the famous Highland fold. Fall forward, folding in on themselves, hence the “Fold” of his name. They are also very mobile and expressive, being able to turn or straighten when lurking.

But, all kittens are born with straight ears, and only from 3 weeks start to double, at least some of them. Those who keep their ears straight are Highland Straight and can be crossed again with Highland fold: some of their descendants will have folded ears and, Therefore, will be Highland fold.

It also, the fur is what differentiates the Highland of the Scottish fold. While they both have a dense undercoat, the top layer of Highland fold is medium to long, with a silky texture. The throat, the breeches and the tail are very complete. According to the norm of Livre Officiel des Origines Félines (LOOF), all fur colors and patterns are allowed.

Last, the sexual dimorphism it is well marked, females being smaller than males.

Size and weight

  • Male size: 23 to 28 cm.
  • female size: 20-25 cm.
  • Male weight: 4-6 kg
  • female weight: 2,5-4 kg

Varieties of the "Highland fold cat"

Some feline organizations consider that the Highland fold it is simply a long-haired variety of the Scottish fold, not a breed in its own right.

On the other hand, the straight eared specimens are called Highland Straight and are considered a breed in their own right by various organizations, like the LOOF (Livre Officiel des Origines Félines) and the TICA (The International Cat Association), que lo denomina Scottish Straight longhair. Other associations recognize it as a variety, and others just don't recognize it at all.

Whatever your recognition, these cats are essential to the health of the breed Highland fold, as they can be bred with them to give birth to new cats with folded ears, while minimizing the risk of genetic diseases. Kittens born from such a union are carriers, at most, of a gene that causes this particularity, while those born from a mating between two Highland fold could carry this gene twice, situation leading to osteochondrodysplasia of varying severity.

Character and skills

Highland fold
Highland fold shorthair Sheerfold Jon – Flickr
Loyal and loving, the Highland fold he is close to his family. But, they usually have a favorite human, with whom they spend the most time and show more affection. Despite your great need for attention, they are not demanding companions or require a lot of time. In fact, content with following a master who has no time to play with him, or you sleep peacefully next to someone who has made you understand that you are too heavy to sleep on your lap.

It is also a breed of cat that adapts perfectly to children who know how to behave with animals, and enjoy receiving their attention. They are sociable and enjoy the company of other cats., as well as dogs used to cats, who can be excellent playmates for them. But, it is not advisable to try to live with rodents, reptiles or birds, as he will soon mistake them for prey.

To the Highland fold he likes company and easily suffers from loneliness. The presence of other animals is a great way to make the day go by when your family is working., and the extra attention at night helps make up for the fact that it has been neglected for several hours. But, this is not enough if you are absent for a long time. One Highland fold staying alone for a long weekend is likely to suffer from separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behavior.

The Highland fold He is also known for his amazing poses: can be seen sleeping on his back, sitting on its hindquarters or standing on its hind legs. They also like to drink tap water instead of the fish tank., and some use their legs to eat.

They are incredibly agile, allowing them to pick up objects on the fly or open cupboard doors without difficulty. Skill games are a great way to keep your cat physically stimulated., while the various puzzles for cats help develop their intelligence.

Last, the Highland fold not heard often, and when it does, it is necessary to listen carefully, since his meow is very soft.

Grooming and caring for the "Highland fold cat"

The Highland fold it is a demanding breed of cat to maintain: its dense coat should be brushed two or three times a week to maintain its shine and prevent knots from forming.

It is also advisable to check your eyes and teeth weekly to avoid any risk of infection. You also have to pay special attention to the ears, which should be cleaned with a damp cloth.

Last, if natural wear and tear and the use of a scratching post are not enough for your claws and they become too long, must be trimmed with a nail clipper.

How much activity does he need? "Highland fold cat"?

Its moderate activity level makes it an ideal flat cat, but his family must not forget to play with him daily.

Health and nutrition

In general, the Highland fold it is a healthy breed of cat, to the point that many specimens have more than 15 years.

But, are more prone to certain diseases:

  • The osteocondrodisplasia, which affects bone and cartilage development and can cause disabling osteoarthritis at an early age. The first symptoms are usually stiffness in the hind legs and/or tail;
  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, an abnormal enlargement of heart tissue that causes heart problems;
  • The polykinetic kidney disease, a genetic disorder that causes numerous cysts in the kidneys, which can now be detected with a DNA test.

It is important to know that the breeding of two Highland fold it is prohibited by the different feline organizations. This is because the gene responsible for the folded ear mutation is dominant., that is to say, the kitten only needs to receive this gene from one parent to have this trait. But, all individuals carrying two mutated genes are affected by osteochondrodysplasia, to a greater or lesser degree. For this reason, miscegenation should be avoided at all costs Folds, and any breeder of Highland fold that does not respect this rule must be rejected.

The only options allowed are between a Fold and Straight (an identical cat with straight ears), a Fold and European shorthair cat (Common european cat), or a Fold and American shorthair cat. These crosses give rise to litters with a 50% kittens with folded ears.

It must be taken into account that the number of kittens per litter is usually lower than that of other breeds of cats..

Life expectancy

Of 12 to 15 years

Food

The Highland fold is not picky and does well with commercial cat food. But, These must be of good quality and adapted to your age and activity level to ensure that you receive the nutrients and vitamins you need.

How they are normally capable of self-regulation, they can have food available in their bowl at all times. But, check your weight at regular intervals to make sure you are not getting too fat, and you have to consult a veterinarian to establish a feeding program adapted to your needs if this is the case.

For sale "Highland fold cat"

The price of a kitten Highland fold it is on average about 1000 EUR.

But, this average hides large price differences between kittens with physical characteristics that are far from the standard, that can be found around the 500 EUR, and those whose prestigious lineage and characteristics predestine them for feline shows, whose price exceeds 2000 EUR.

In any case, there is no significant price difference between male and female kittens.

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Himalayan cat
Federations: ACFA, TICA, WCF

The Himalayan cat it is an extremely sweet pet, playful and gentle that can be adapted to practically any type of home.

Himalaya

Content

Characteristics "Himalayan cat"

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Himalayan cat" you know certain factors. You must take into account their character, their need for exercise, their interaction with other pets, their care and if you have small children, their level of tolerance towards them.

Joy

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Activity level

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Friendliness to other pets

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Friendliness to children

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Grooming requirements

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Vocality

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Need for attention

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Affection towards its owners

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Docility

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Intelligence

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Independence

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Hardiness

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History

Also know as Colourpoint Persian, the Himalayan cat It is a breed of cat that combines the colors of the Siamese cat with the Traditional Persian cat. It is a cross between semi-long-haired Siamese twins and blue and black persian cats.
Some feline associations, as the American Cat Fanciers’ Association (ACFA), they consider it a separate breed, while others, as the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), they see it rather as a variety of Persian cat, from which it only differs in the color of the coat. Its name is due to the similarity of its coloration with that of a domestic rabbit also called Himalaya.

Its origins date back almost a century., when breeders dreamed of combining the colors of the Siamese Cat with the Traditional Persian cat. At the beginning of the year 30, in United States, the Dr. Clyde Keeler, researcher at Harvard University School of Medicine, undertook a hybridization program for this purpose, in collaboration with a breeder, the Mrs. Virginia Cobb. The results were not entirely satisfactory and the experiment was interrupted by the Second World War.. After the war, another passionate breeder, the Mrs. Marguerita Goforth, took the torch and managed to create a “Colourpoint Persian cat” that was recognized in 1957 by the CFA and ACFA as a new breed called “Himalayan“. At that time, the breeder had to demonstrate the existence of three generations of “Colorpoint” pure so that this line was accredited as a new breed and could participate in contests and championships.

In the meantime, in Britain, Brian Sterling-Webb, another enthusiastic breeder, worked for a decade on the development of a similar hybrid that, in 1955, was registered as a separate breed named “Colorpoint longhair cat” by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF).

Over the next decade, the popularity of Himalayan cat grew significantly. But, breeders began to interbreed only with himalayan. As a result, the characteristics inherited from Persian cat they were lost in favor of individuals with a less flattened face. This led some breeders over the years 70 to use occasionally pure persian cats at the crosses, in order to increase again the characteristics of this breed in the Himalayan cat. This was so successful that the cats resulting from this selection ended up having all the characteristics to compete in competitions. Persian cat. Inevitably, the question arose: should he Himalayan cat still consider themselves a breed unto themselves?

In response to this question, the CFA decided on 1984 consider the Himalayan as a subdivision of the Persian cat, keeping your name. It was followed by World Cat Federation (WCF). But the ACFA, as well as the International Cat Association (TICA), they kept it as a separate race.

Today, the Himalayan cat still a very popular cat in North America, but less in Europe.

Physical characteristics

Himalayan cat
Himalayan cat – Joseph Morris, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Himalayan cat, like the persian, it is a solid and round cat, with short legs, short tail and small, rounded ears. According to American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA), must have five fingers in front and four behind.

As with the Persian, There are two types of himalayan: the classic “baby face” and the one with the flatter face “how to pekinés”, which gets its name from its similarity to the dog Pekingese.

Most of the cat's coat is white or cream in color, but there are some varieties, according to the different shades of the tips of the coat and the extremities of the body.

Size and weight

  • Size: 30 cm.
  • Weight: Of 3 to 6 kg

Varieties of "Himalayan cat"

Distinguished by the color of the extremities of the body and the tips of the coat, the main Himalayan varieties are

Blue Point:
  • the tips of the fur are blue, like feet, the ears, tail and face. The rest of the body is slightly bluish white, and the eyes are bright blue.
Lilac Point:
  • In this variety, the extremities of the body and the tips of the coat are paler and lilac than blue. The rest of the body is whiter and brighter than in the Blue Point.
Seal Point:
  • The extremities of the body and the tips of much of the body are black or dark brown (similar to the color of the seal, that inspired his name). It is the variety whose color is most similar to that of the Siamese.
Chocolate Point:
  • The tips of the body and the tips of the coat of this variety are chocolate brown, a shade lighter than Seal Point. The rest of the fur is also whiter and brighter than that of the Seal Point. The color of the foot pads is a characteristic that strongly distinguishes the two varieties.: those of the Chocolate Point they are pink, while his Seal Point are dark brown.
Red Point o Flame Point:
  • The dominant color of the limbs and points of this cat is red, which can be orange. The rest of the body is white or cream.
Cream Point:
  • This variety of Himalayan is a diluted version of Flame Point. The coloring of the mask and the extremities is reddish or pale orange, while the rest of the body is white or slightly cream.

Character and skills

Himalayan cat
Himalayn cat named ‘Monte.’ Flickr
The Himalayan cat it is a wonderful indoor cat. They are gentle, calm and sweet temperament, and they also have a playful side. Like him Siamese cat, to the himalayan he loves to play fetch, and a crumpled piece of paper or a cat toy will entertain them for hours, or until your next nap.

The Himalayan cat They are devoted and depend on their humans to accompany and protect them. They crave affection and love to be petted and groomed., which is lucky, since all owners of this breed of cat spend part of the day doing just that.

Like his Persian brethren, they are docile and will not harass you for attention like some breeds do. They have the same level of activity as the Persian cat and they are not noisy like the Siamese cat.

Grooming and caring for the "Himalayan cat"

If you are not willing to spend some time on daily grooming, the Himalayan cat probably not the right cat for you. Since they have long, silky hair that tangles and weighs down easily, the fur of the himalayan should be brushed with a sturdy, wide-toothed comb daily. This will remove and prevent tangles and mats, and will help remove dirt, dust and debris. It is also recommended that the Himalayan cat visit a professional groomer every few months to make sure his coat is healthy and clean. The good news is that himalayan they love to receive the attention of their owners, which makes grooming easy and is an excellent bonding experience for the owner and his feline companion.

You can protect your legs and your furniture by trimming your nails Himalayan regularly. Examine your legs weekly and trim them if necessary to keep them healthy and injury free. Also spend time a week examining your cat's ears. The pointed ears of the Himalayan are susceptible to trapping dirt and debris, which can lead to infections and other ear problems in the future. If you find debris in your cat's ears, use a pet ear cleaner and a cotton pad to remove them carefully. Never use a cotton swab in your cat's ears, as it can severely damage the delicate structures of the inner ear. If the ears are very red or swollen, very dirty or smell funny, take him to the vet asap.

The himalayan have low exercise needs, but they are extremely playful and will do mischief if they get bored. You can keep them entertained and engaged by providing plenty of cat toys and a few minutes of play each day.. Like the Himalayan they have such a playful personality, something as simple as a ball of paper will keep you entertained for hours.

How much activity does he need? "Himalayan cat"?

The himalayan you need to exercise to stay in top shape. Likes to play with their owners and will play with interactive toys, chase balls and attack mice with catnip, but you may have to chase him to get him exercising on a daily basis.

Health and nutrition

Himalayan
Himalayan – Aaa803287, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Himalayan cat you are prone to certain skin diseases: seborrhea, cheyletiellosis and dermatophytosis (had).

It also, like the persian, may have a tendency to be overweight. So, you need to pay attention to your diet, to avoid any risk of obesity in the cat.

It also, due to his persian heritage, may be a carrier of the gene that causes renal polyquistosis. This inherited disease causes cysts to develop slowly and progressively in the kidneys.. But, the presence of the offending gene can be detected by genetic testing. So, before adopting a kitten of this breed, it is advisable to check with the breeder of himalayan that this genetic test has been performed and has given a negative result. If not done, it is a wise precaution to demand that it be done.

It also, the flattened shape of the face may predispose to himalayan certain health problems. These may include, you may be prone to breathing problems due to narrow nostrils. They can also suffer malocclusion (misaligned teeth) or abnormal watering.

The himalayan you can also suffer the feline hyperesthesia syndrome (a little-known disease that causes behavior problems).

Last, the length of their coat can cause hair ingestion problems, what ends up creating hairballs in the stomach of the cat (tricobezoares), causing pain and / or digestive problems.

Food

As the Himalayan cat have a tendency to be overweight, special attention should be paid to your diet.

Some companies have developed a range of foods specially adapted to the needs of the Persian cat (and therefore of himalayan). Available in the form of croquettes or cans, these foods offer a low-fat diet that contributes to the health of the cat, while helping to maintain a silky coat and limit hairball formation. Some of the kibbles available on the market are shaped to fit the brachycephalic jaw of the Persian and of the himalayan.

The quality of the products in the market varies, so make sure that the ones you offer your dog are reliable. The ingredient list on the packaging can help you, but you can also ask the breeder for advice himalayan or your vet.

For sale "Himalayan cat"

The kitties himalayan (pet quality) cost between 700 and 1400 EUR, depending on coat colors and bloodline. the kitten's quest himalayan perfect begins with the search for a reputable breeder. One Himalayan cat known breeding sites, with good color and perfect proportion can cost between 1500 and 3000 EUR,

Videos "Himalayan cat"

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