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Cherubim cat
Federations: IRCA

The "premium" breed known today as Ragdoll cat is an early descendant of a line of Cherubim cats.
Cherubim
Photo: KRO-Media - Flicker

Content

History

Before becoming the RagaMuffins cat on ACFA ⓘ , This breed of cat was collectively known as Cherubim cat and registered in the IRCA registry of Ann Baker, the International Association of Ragdoll cats.

The efforts of Ann Baker by breeding cats began in the early s 60 and were officially established in 1971 with the formation of IRCA, developing his first line of cats, the Ragdoll cat who was selected to be just a colored cat.

During the following 23 years he continued to develop other breeding lines using other breeds and increasing genetic diversity; these lines included all the colors and patterns. All breeding lines developed throughout those years were collectively referred to as Cherubim cats and registered in the IRCA for their lines of development – all these lines together were the original founding breeding lines. The Cherubim cats.

NOTE: The "premium" breed known today as Ragdoll cat is an early descendant of a line of Cherubim cats -> the Ragdolls of the IRCA ⓘ only.

The founders were actively breeding the entire spectrum of lines of Cherubim cats in the IRCA ⓘ until 1992, When, due to the deterioration of the health and stability of Ann Baker, they decided to leave the IRCA ⓘ and seek recognition as a race within the formal organizations of Cat Fancy.

Contracts with Ann Baker stipulated that if breeders continued to breed cats of the IRCA ⓘ off your record, The name "Ragdoll" could not be used to describe cats bred. The name Cherubim had also been recorded by Ann at that time. So, even though the RagaMuffin cats were in fact the Cherubim cats original, and that the logical thing would have been to keep Cherubim as breed name, The need arose to "change their name" to remain ethically faithful to their contracts.

Today, the RagaMuffin cat continues the legacy of its founders by preserving the original focus of the Cherubim cat in personality, the sweet appearance and the genetically diverse and solid health.

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Nebelung cat
Federations: TICA, LOOF, GCCF, WCF

Content

Characteristics "Nebelung cat"

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

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Activity level

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to other pets

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to children

3,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Grooming requirements

3,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Vocality

2,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Need for attention

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Affection towards its owners

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Docility

3,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Intelligence

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Independence

2,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Hardiness

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

History

The Nebelung cat today originated in the United States in the 1980, but its history is much older and inseparable from that of the Russian Blue Cat.

The Russian Blue Cat already existed in Russia in the 19th century, where it was often hunted for the quality of its hide, which caused a population decline. The breed included both individuals of shorthair like Longhair. If he Russian Blue Cat shorthair was exported to Great Britain from 1870 and quickly met some success there, his cousin from Longhair did not have this opportunity, and it continued to decline. The 20th century and its two world wars sealed its fate, and is now considered extinct. In other words, the Nebelungs current replicate their appearance, but they are not his descendants.

The history of the Nebelung starts in 1984 and Denver, Colorado ((UNITED STATES)UU.), when the cat of the son of Cora Cobb, a computer developer, gave birth to a long-haired gray-blue male kitten. Seduced by this ball of hair, Cora Cobb decided to stay with him and called him Siegfried, in honor of the protagonist of Wagner's opera "The Ring of the Nibelung".

"Nebelung cat"

Nebelung
This is a Nebelung cat – Howdyhithere, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A few months later, this cat gave birth to another litter in which one of the kittens had long bluish gray hair. Cora Cobb he also adopted this cat and named her Brunilda, again in reference to the characters in Wagner's opera, based on the 13th century Germanic poem Nibelungenlied.

When he moved to Old Paso, Texas, Cora Cobb took to Siegfried and Brunhilde, who thanked him by giving birth to a litter of three kittens in 1986. They all had the same medium-long, blue-gray fur..

This is because the gene responsible for Longhair and the gene responsible for blue-gray hair are both recessive, which means that the individual must inherit it from both parents to have this appearance. Like this, kittens resulting from the mating of two long-haired gray or gray-blue cats must have the same coat as their parents.

Decided to call the cats Nebelung, a clear reference to Wagner's opera and original poem, but also a pun on the German word «Nebel» (What does "fog" mean?) and the Russian «Nebo» (what does "heaven" mean). Then the breed recognition process began, contacting the Dra. Solveig Pflueger, head of genetics of the TICA (International Cat Association).

Following his advice, developed a standard for the Nebelung cat based on the Russian Blue Cat, changing only the description of the fur. The TICA provisionally recognized the breed in 1987, and Cora Cobb founded his kennel, who called Nebelheim.

In 1989, the Nebelung was featured at a cat show in Paris, where it had some success and offspring began to appear in Europe. In 1997 was definitely recognized by the TICA, later for him Livre Officiel des Origines Félines (LOOF) french in 2008 and by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) british in 2015. The World Cat Federation (WCF) has also recognized the breed, but neither the American Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) not even Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé) have yet taken the step.

Although it is now present in North America, as well as in Europe, the Nebelung still a rare breed of cat, and has not yet conquered the general public. In France, the statistics of Libro Oficial de Orígenes Felinos (LOOF) indicate that less than fifty specimens are registered each year, while in Great Britain these figures do not exceed twenty. Breed is even more discreet in America, where there are only a handful of hatcheries in the entire country.

Physical characteristics

Nebelung
Majestic shadow beast. He prote – Amarnth7, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Nebelung It has a type morphology Semi-Foreign. Its body, long and elegant, he is athletic and well proportioned, and rests on muscular legs that end in oval legs. The tail is long, at least as much as the body, and the hair of the same is longer than in the rest of the body.

The head wedge-shaped is well proportioned to the size of the animal and the ears they are big and pointed. The boca is slightly turned up at the corners, which gives the appearance of constantly smiling, and the nose is charcoal gray. The eyes They are slightly oval and of a deep green color similar to that of the Russian Blue Cat. But, kittens may have greenish-yellow eyes until they reach maturity, around two years old.

The fur of the Nebelung, that is not fully developed until that age, it's semi-long, and males can have mane. The undercoat it is dense and waterproof, while the outer coat is long and silky. In winter, the coat becomes longer and denser, allowing you to better protect yourself from the cold.

The only coat color allowed is gray., but this one is called "blue" in the world of cat shows. Kittens can have "ghost" stripes, but these disappear as they grow, giving way to a nice uniform tone.

Last, the sexual dimorphism it is quite marked, the female being smaller than the male.

Size and weight

  • Male size: 26 to 30 cm.
  • female size: 25-28 cm.
  • Male weight: 4-7 kg
  • female weight: 3-6 kg

Breed standard

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

Varieties

If he Nebelung it is called often Russian Blue longhair, this is a mistake: is a long-haired equivalent of the Russian Blue Cat, but the Nebelung and this one are two different races that do not share common origins. In fact, contrary to what one might think, the Nebelung does not descend from Russian Blue longhair found in Russia in the 19th century and have since disappeared.

But, the rules allow the crossing between these two breeds, what, of course, can only lead to confusion. A kitten resulting from such a union is considered as Russian Blue if you have short hair, and as Nebelung if, on the contrary, the Longhair.

Character and skills

Nebelung
Nebelung – Nebelung, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Nebelung he is extremely affectionate with his family and loves to spend time with them. But, he is a rather shy cat, you need some time before you trust humans; after adopting one, you should not be forced to socialize with your family, but should be allowed to get used to at your own pace. Once you feel comfortable, he will follow his family members throughout the house and remain devoted and loyal to them for life.

Like is logic, even when it is well integrated into your home, prefers the tranquility of a family evening to social life. It is common for him to run away when guests arrive at the house, and can stay hidden for a while before showing up to greet newcomers.

They get along very well with the children in the family who have learned to behave with an animal, but they run away from the too boisterous youth. in addition, can live very well with other cats, or even with dogs accustomed to cats, as long as you are not being chased around the house and introductions are made on your terms, that is to say, without forcing you to socialize quickly.

In general, cats don't like changes, and the Nebelung is no exception. He likes routine and does not like his habits to be altered. It is an excellent alarm clock, that every morning reminds its owner that it is time to get up and, step, to give him breakfast. So, not suitable for people who move often and / or have a chaotic lifestyle.

When you feel safe in the family nucleus, this peaceful companion becomes active and playful, not hesitating to invite his master to play or run after a shiny object that has fallen to the ground. Once they have had enough exercise, they will gladly accommodate with a family member to receive well-deserved caresses.

As an intelligent race, the Nebelung is even able to learn some tricks, like fetching a ball or opening the door to the candy closet. This intelligence enables you to understand the intonations of voices, and makes you able to recognize the compliments, but also teasing: it's not uncommon to see him sulking at his family after making them laugh against their will, for example, falling off the couch.

Last, it is a cat made to live in an apartment and not in the garden: finds your marks faster and feels safer there, what favors their adaptation. In fact, even if I have access to the outside, you probably prefer the comfort of home to the possible novelties that await you outside. It also, it is a breed of cat that tolerates loneliness well, so it can be left home alone when your family is working: unlike other active and intelligent breeds, there is no need to fear that he will adopt destructive behavior, especially if you get extra care at night.

Health

The Nebelung it is a very resistant cat breed, no known genetic diseases.

This does not protect him from most of the diseases that all cats are exposed to; even if he spends his life inside, it is essential to vaccinate him well and give him adequate antiparasitic treatments.

The most important health risk is Obesity. It is not a disease in itself, but it can cause serious problems. The owner is the only person who can protect the dog from this condition, so you should make sure to weigh it regularly to control your weight and avoid being overweight.

Life expectancy

15 to 18 years

Grooming

"Nebelung cat"

Nebelung
Nebelung Male, Aleksandr of Song de China – Nebelung, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The maintenance of Nebelung cat is not difficult, but it takes a little time.

Its beautiful coat should be brushed twice a week to remove dead hairs and distribute sebum from the skin. These actions help keep the coat shiny and avoid knots..

During the moulting season, in spring and autumn, this brushing should be done every day to deal with the large amount of dead hair.

It also, it is advisable to spend a few minutes each week to check the condition of the ears, cat's eyes and teeth: to avoid any risk of infection, must be kept perfectly clean. Ears and eyes can be wiped clean with a damp cloth if necessary.

When they get too long, it is necessary to trim the claws with a nail clipper. As the Nebelung it is generally an indoor cat, natural wear is usually insufficient.

Last, It should be noted that the Nebelung has a very high level of cleanliness, even more than most of its congeners. So, to avoid problems, it is important to replace the litter box and clean it regularly.

Feeding

The Nebelung is not demanding in terms of food and can be fed with commercially available industrial cat food. These must be of sufficient quality to provide you with all the necessary nutrients and vitamins to keep you healthy.. Y, as in the case of any cat of any breed, diet should be adapted to your age and activity level.

The Nebelung he's a big glutton, and your appetite can be a source of trouble. So, it is important to respect the daily servings recommended by the manufacturer, and pay attention to the calorie content of any cat treats you receive; the ideal is, of course, deduct from your ration of croquettes or pate the amount contributed by them. It also, not usually able to self-regulate, so it is better to avoid having food available all the time.

In case of excessive weight gain, do not let the situation get out of control, Instead, you have to quickly consult a veterinarian to establish a new feeding program more suited to your needs..

For sale "Nebelung cat"

A kitten Nebelung it costs on average about 1.200 EUR, but the price range goes from 1.000 to 1.400 EUR, depending on the physical characteristics of the kitten.

The price of females is usually slightly lower than that of males, but there are no big differences.

Videos "Nebelung cat"

Nebelung / Cat Breed

the nebelung cat family.

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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

3,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Activity level

2,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to other pets

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to children

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Grooming requirements

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Vocality

2,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Need for attention

2,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Affection towards its owners

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Docility

5,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Intelligence

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Independence

2,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Hardiness

3,0 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 real "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's 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, It is not for someone who likes to be alone and does not want a companion who is a little "clingy", 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.

But, 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. But, 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. But, 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.

But, 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.

But, 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

Do "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 compilation 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.

When I hugged the cat tightly, I got annoyed by saying 'Ang'.

3 Minutes of a Ragdoll Cat Being a Ragdoll Cat

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Oriental Longhair cat
Federations: LOOF, CFA, ACF, ACFA, TICA, WCF

Also know as Javanese cat (Colorpoint Longhair), the Oriental Longhair cat is a fairly rare breed of cat.

Contrary to what the various exotic names might suggest, was created in the United States.

Photo by blackmystica

Content

History

In 1985, at Sholine Cattery in Houston, Texas, United States, an oriental short hair and a pellets they escaped their vigilance and be aparearon. The result was a litter of silky puppies and semilargo hair of Eastern plain colors. Wisely, the owner of the cattery, Sheryl Ann Boyle, decided to raise this race, and the main records in North America and Europe soon recognized, with the exception of the GCCF in Great Britain, It believed that it was too similar to the angora, now known as Oriental Longhair cat (angora).

In 1995, the CFA joined the Oriental shorthair cat and to the Oriental longhair cat in a single breed with two hair lengths, a controversial fact according to some breeders, that they preferred the longhair trait to be eliminated from breeding lines of the Oriental Shorthair. Due to its dotted ancestors, all Asians can have puppies occasionally dotted, but cannot be displayed in most associations, since they look very similar and can be confused with the Siamese and balinese.

Character and skills

Although the Oriental Longhair cat looks elegant, his personality is often described as less languid anything. All Oriental races have the reputation of being habladoras, playful, very curious and sociable. They need the company of other cats or their owner's undivided attention for a little while each day, and some studies on the nature of these cats show. Much of the personality of this cat is inherited, and for decades farmers have reinforced the extroverted personality of Eastern races. Copies walk willingly strap and play around to get an object as if they were dogs.

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Colorpoint longhair cat
Himalayan Cat or Javanese Cat

Like the dog, the Domestic cat can take on many different appearances, especially in terms of coat color. There is something for everyone: black, white, redhead, grey, smooth, bicolor, tricolor, with drawings and effects… Of all possible coats, the Colourpoint is probably one of the most surprising, for some of its amazing features.

Colorpoint longhair

Content

«Colorpoint» cat breeds

Colorpoint Longhair or Colourpoint Longhair (among other spellings) is a term in disuse for one of the many varieties of domestic cat, and can refer to:

Javanese cat, the long-haired variant of the widely accepted Colorpoint shorthair cat (which is essentially a Siamese cat with non-Siamese coloring); notice, However, that the World Cat Federation confusingly uses "Javanese" to refer to the Oriental Longhair cat, related but different.

Colourpoint, the name of the World Cat Federation for the long-haired version of its definition of Colorpoint shorthair (including both standard and non-standard Siamese coloring); it is a classification of the breed that encompasses what other registries call:

  • The Himalayan cat (essentially, the Javanese cat but with colors limited to those of the Siamese cat); and
  • The Javanese cat (see above), that is to say, a long-haired cat with any of the colorations that are not standard for the Siamese cat and the Himalayan cat, but that are in the Colorpoint shorthair cat, no WCF.
  • Any long-haired, colored mongrel domestic cat (without capital letters and with several spellings, for example, «wide hair colorpoint», etc.)

Physical characteristics

The term Colourpoint refers to a coat pattern in cats in which the limbs (face, ears, underside of legs and tip of tail) are darker than the rest of the body. But, not limited to felines, as it is also found in some other mammals, like gerbils and rabbits.

The cats Colourpoint have several notable features:

  • are born with a smooth or very light coat;
  • they are cats with blue eyes, even as adults;
  • tend to darken over the years;
  • may temporarily change color in certain situations.

how is a cat Colourpoint?

A cat Colourpoint limbs are darker than the rest of the body. In particular, This translates into :

  • the face, with a mask that covers at least the forehead, nose and cheeks. Some also have lighter eye contours and, Therefore, they seem to wear some kind of glasses;
  • the back and the contour of the ears, that are dark;
  • legs and tail, that can be colored only at the tips or throughout their length.

The cats Colourpoint they rarely have a uniform mark, since the pattern fades in some parts to form a kind of gradient from the darkest to the lightest areas of the body. This color gradation is most noticeable on the legs and tail., especially in individuals with brown or even black tips. But, it is not systematic.

The different types of colors

There are different types of Colourpoint, depending on the color of the ends (or points):

Color point type Final color
Blue point Grey blue
Chocolate point Chocolate Cafe
Cinnamon point Cinnamon brown
Cream point Light cream
Fawn point Pink beige
Lilac point Pinkish gray
Red point Bright orange
Seal point Dark brown to black

It also, the boss Colourpoint can also be used with a pattern: instead of smooth, ends can be brindle (this is called tabby point) or tortie / carey, that is to say, black and Red (this is called tortie point).

Whether the limbs are stamped or not, the rest of the body can be any color, which increases the number of possible combinations. But, the most sought after colors are usually those that offer a good contrast between the two shades and, Therefore, make the drawing stand out Colourpoint: are the bright or dark ends on a rather light body.

Are there many Colourpoint cats?

The boss Colourpoint can be quite distinctive, but it is by no means rare among cats. This is not surprising, since some very popular cat breeds, as the Siamese cat, have it as a standard feature.

The genetics of the coat Colourpoint

The boss Colourpoint in cats it is caused by a genetic alteration in the C gene, responsible for the production of an enzyme called tyrosinase. This enzyme is involved in the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, hair and eyes. You need a temperature of about 38-39°C, what is the normal body temperature of a cat.

But, certain genetic mutations in gene C cause the tyrosinase be more sensitive to heat. So it is unable to work at normal temperature, which reduces the production of melanin in the hair and eyes, thus limiting its coloration. The fur is not as colorful as it would be if the tyrosinase it could have worked, and the iris is still blue instead of darkening to a more classic shade (that is to say, yellow, green or orange).

Then, the only places where the tyrosinase can act correctly and in which, Therefore, hair acquires its "normal" color are those in which the body temperature is lower, that is to say, the extremities: face, ears, underside of legs and tip of tail.

This genetic mutation explains why cats Colourpoint they have such a special fur and beautiful blue eyes.

Color changes in Colourpoint cats

Like the particular coat of cats Colourpoint is linked to the sensitivity of the enzyme tyrosinase heat, its coloration can change over time depending on various factors, including body temperature.

Changes in body temperature

When a cat has an abnormally high body temperature (for example, if you have a fever or hyperthermia), the tyrosinase does not work properly and there is not as much melanin: your body becomes clearer. This explains why a kitten comes into the world smooth or very little marked.: has stayed warm in his mother's womb and, Therefore, has a higher temperature than normal.

On the other hand, lower body temperature (for example, as a result of hypothermia or hair clipping) makes body hair darker. This is why cats Colourpoint tend to darken as they age: as they age, your metabolism slows down and your body temperature drops, which causes an increase in melanin production.

But, these color changes do not occur in a matter of hours or minutes, since melanin synthesis and hair growth are not immediate. They only occur if the change in body temperature lasts for at least several days, and very gradually. These may include, a cat colourpoint sleeping next to a radiator doesn't suddenly become lighter.

Hormone-related changes

Regardless of the type of coat, the synthesis process melanin is influenced by the production of certain hormones. But, in colourpoint cats, this influence is multiplied by ten, giving rise to color variations that are easily appreciated in some particular cases.

These may include, it is not uncommon to find that the fur of a cat Colourpoint that has just given birth gets progressively darker as the days go by, due to hormonal changes that occur. Next, will return to its normal color in a few days or weeks, once hormone levels have normalized.

how to get a cat Colourpoint?

The genetic mutation responsible for the coat Colourpoint in cats it is transmitted recessively. This means that both parents have to pass the mutation on to the kitten.. If one of the parents does not pass the mutation, but the standard version of the normal gene, the kitten will have a non-colored coat.

So, the only way to get a kitten Colourpoint is to cross two individuals that are carriers of this genetic characteristic. If you both have two copies, Both are Colourpoint, and the 100% of their kittens will be Colourpoint.

More concretely, different combinations are possible:

  • of the cats Colourpoint give kittens 100% Colourpoint;
  • a cat Colourpoint and a cat no Colourpoint with the mutation they give an average of 50% Colourpoint kittens;
  • two cats without Colourpoint with the mutation they give an average of 25% of Colourpoint;
  • the marriage between a cat Colourpoint and a cat no Colorpoint does not give rise to offspring Colourpoint. On the other hand, the 100% the offspring inherits the genetic mutation and can in turn pass it on to their offspring;
  • a marriage between a cat no colorpoint with the mutation and a non-carrier cat does not give rise to any offspring Colourpoint. On the other hand, the 50% of the offspring (on average) inherits the genetic mutation and can pass it on to their offspring;
  • a marriage between two cats no Colourpoint who are not carriers of the mutation have no chance of producing a puppy Colourpoint or even a carrier of the mutation.

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Pixie-bob
Federations: TICA, ACFA/CAA, CCA-AFC

Even in america, the distribution of Pixie-bob is still limited, since the number of breeders does not exceed twenty.
Photo: © Natalie Bent - Pixie-bob.info

Content

Characteristics "Pixie-bob"

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

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Activity level

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to other pets

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to children

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Grooming requirements

2,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Vocality

3,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Need for attention

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Affection towards its owners

5,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Docility

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Intelligence

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Independence

2,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Hardiness

5,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

History

The origins of the Pixie-bob they are dyed with fantasy. There is a legend that it is the result of the mating between female domestic cat and male bobcat. This is surely due to the fact that the Pixie-bob looks like "Lynx«, but it has no foundation.

What is known is that Carol Ann Brewer, a Washington state breeder, in the northwestern United States, was the creator of the race.

In 1985, through a newspaper ad, adopted and appointed Keba, a male kitten that resembled a bobcat: large, with spots and with a short tail. The owners told him that the father was a bobcat (Lynx rufus).

Carol Ann Brewer I already had a female, call Maggie, which had the same characteristics. Decided to pair them. In the resulting litter, a little kitten was born with features identical to those of her parents. He called Pixie.

Pixie looked like a wild cat, but he was tame and he was loving. Carol Ann Brewer was delighted with this original mix and decided to breed it.

He toured the Cascade Mountains and found 23 males with the same characteristics: short tail, spotted fur, short or long hair. Like this, had enough specimens to start breeding what he decided to call the Pixie-bob: Pixie in reference to the little cat from which all representatives of the breed descend, and Bob by "bobcat«, that means Lynx.

Carol Ann Brewer He then gathered around him other breeders who were passionate about the cat and who wanted to contribute to its development.. He exercised strict control over his breeding work, so that together they managed to maintain both the wild appearance of the cat and its domestic temperament.

In 1989 Carol Ann Brewer wrote the first rule for the Pixie-bob. She and her colleagues worked hard to get the International Cat Association (TICA) recognize the breed. One of the ways to do this was to silence the rumor that the animals were hybrids of the bobcat, that is to say, who descended from that species. They knew that it was highly unlikely that the official authorities would agree to register a hybrid cat. Thus, performed genetic tests on the different litters, who scientifically proved that there was no relationship between their cats and wild animals.

In 1993, the organization took a decisive first step in allowing the Pixie-bob will be presented in exhibitions organized under the aegis of the organization, although unable to compete. In 1996, officially granted the Pixie-bob new breed status, and in 1998 the breed received full recognition, allowing your representatives to participate in contests.

At the same time, The "Pixie Bob" began to spread internationally.

This was the case, in particular, from France: a first copy was presented in 1997 in the Festival of the Gato de Pontoise. The reference body of the country, the Livre Officiel des Origines Félines (LOOF), recognized the breed barely 5 years later, in 2002.

Not everyone has done the same. These may include, the request for recognition made to the Cat Fanciers’Association (CFA) still not successful to this day, contrary to what happened in 2005 with the one carried out at American Cat Fanciers’ Association. In general, few official bodies have accepted the breed. These may include, not even Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé), neither him Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF), not even Association Féline Canadienne (CCA), they have taken the step.

Distribution of "Pixie-bob"

Although the Pixie-bob began to be exported outside its country of origin in the years 90 (Canada, France, Italy, etc.), most of its population is still concentrated in the United States. It is still rare and little known abroad.

Even in america, its distribution remains limited, since the number of breeders does not exceed twenty. in Canada, there are less than a dozen.

In France, there are hardly more than a handful of breeders. The number of annual records of Pixie-bob in the Livre Officiel des Origines Félines (LOOF) around twenty between 2006 and 2008, and then drop to a dozen in the following years, before peaking again at 2018, with more than 30 births per year. In any case, whatever the time, records Pixie-bob shorthair are 2 to 3 times more than those of Pixie-bob longhair.

The breed is also present in Belgium, but there are only a few breeders there.

Physical characteristics

Pixie-bob
Pixie-Bob – Simone Johnsson from Curitiba, Brazil, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Pixie-bob is a long and powerful cat with a wild look.

The body it is medium to large size, with strong bones and powerful muscles. The rib cage is broad and well developed. The shoulders are prominent and form a hole in the center, which gives the impression that the Pixie-bob roll when walking. Lower body has a belly pocket. The back forms a slight hollow that goes up to the hips, that are slightly taller than the shoulders.

The tail must have at least 5 cm length, but must not extend beyond the hock when the leg is fully extended.

The legs they are long and powerfully muscular, ending in feet large, wide and almost round. The latter have meaty fingers.

Some individuals have a normally long tail or feet polydactyls. In France, the Livre Officiel des Origines Félines (LOOF) authorizes its registration and reproduction, but they cannot participate in contests organized under the auspices of the organization. The International Cat Association accepts the Pixie-bob with long tail, as long as the queue does not exceed more than 2 cm from hock when leg is extended, as well as those who are polydactyls (7 fingers maximum).

The head of the Pixie-bob rests on a powerful and muscular neck. It is medium to large in size and has the original shape of an inverted pear.. The forehead is slightly rounded and ends in a slight stop.

The ears they are medium in size and wide at the base, with rounded tip. Subtly leaning out, have feather-shaped tufts of hair at the tip, which gives them an air of resemblance to the Lynx.

The eyes they are widely separated in the shape of a rectangular triangle and their color varies between gold and hazelnut. They are surrounded by a line of creamy white makeup that highlights their contours., and are topped by bushy eyebrows. The eyelids are quite heavy and cover a small part of the eyes, giving to Pixie-bob a slightly indolent and half-asleep appearance. It also, on each side, a black line runs from the outer corner of the eye to the cheek, which is prominent.

The nose it is quite big and wide. It is also slightly arched, forming a small hump, and ends with a brick-colored nose.

Last, the chin is well developed and covered with dense fur.

The Pixie-bob it comes in two varieties, that are differentiated by the length of their fur – all other physical and mental characteristics are identical. There are individuals of shorthair and Longhair. On this last case, However, hair does not exceed 5 cm length.

Both short-haired and long-haired cats have soft fur, woolly and dense, especially on the head, where it is thicker.

The Pixie-bob is a tabby cat whose coat can only have a spotted tabby pattern, that is to say, is stained with small round spots, randomly distributed throughout the body. Undercoat is mouse gray, and the upper one is brown, or of all its lighter or darker shades. The belly contrasts with the rest of the body, as it is creamy white. The same goes for the chin and lower neck, which are lighter in color. On the other hand, the back of the legs, the pads and the tip of the tail are brownish-black or black.

The fur mottled Pixie-bob changes with the seasons. In winter, the fur is very dense, allowing it to withstand very low temperatures. In summer, the coat is less dense and shorter, allowing the spot pattern to be seen. The molt takes place in spring and autumn.

Last, regardless of the variety, there is a certain sexual dimorphism: the male is not much larger than the female, but it's heavier.

Size and weight

"Pixie-bob"

Pixie Bob
Pixie-Bob – Simone Johnsson from Curitiba, Brazil, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
  • Size: 30 cm.
  • Male weight: Of 6 to 10 kg
  • female weight: 3 to 4 kg

Breed standard

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

Varieties

The Pixie-bob it comes in two varieties:

  • the Pixie Bob shorthair;
  • the Pixie Bob longhair.

The only difference between them is the length of the hair.: their other physical characteristics are identical, like his temperament. But, the Pixie Bob shorthair it is more common than the long-haired.

It also, although they are not considered varieties in the strict sense, there are both Pixie Bobs short-tailed (the majority) like those with a much longer tail. Both can be short or long hair.

Character and skills

Pixie-bob
Pixie-bob

The Pixie-bob it is a surprising and remarkable cat. In fact, its wild appearance could be misleading, but don't be fooled: this cat has an affectionate and docile character, which is even similar to that of a dog in many respects.

In fact, this outgoing animal, affectionate and easy to carry is ideal for a family. Not an individual cat, but wait - and offer- affection to everyone around him on a daily basis. They like to be the center of family activities and participate in some way. A little talkative, does not hesitate to communicate to demonstrate, for example, that he needs to be caressed.

You can even talk to strangers this way. In fact, the Pixie-bob he is not shy with strangers or guests who come into his house. On the other hand, he stays in the middle of all those people and wants to participate.

If this cuddly feline enjoys cuddling up on the couch with his humans, it is because it is calm and relaxed by nature. A bit addicted to the couch sometimes, he likes the tranquility of his home and being surrounded by his family.

They are able to cope with the excitement of the youngest: loving their company and showing infinite patience with them, without ever being aggressive, It is clearly a recommended breed of cat for children.

But, the fact that it is a good company should not make us forget that a small child and a cat - whatever the breed- they should never be alone together, without adult supervision.

The Pixie-bob is also sociable with other cats, dogs and even small animals like rodents and birds. In fact, tends to easily accept sharing their territory, especially if you have gotten used to it since childhood. But, if another animal enters the family circle when it is no longer a kitten, it is preferable to adapt gradually to minimize the risk of problems. In any case, if you are going to live under the same roof as a dog, it is better to choose a breed of dog that gets along well with cats and can live with them.

Without being destructive, the Pixie-bob is playful, and sometimes even exuberant. So, need space. But, as long as it is a respectable size and its owners allow it to exercise, you can live both in a flat and in a house with a garden. On this last case, it is a good idea to install a cat flap, so you can come and go as you please, both inside and outside.

Regardless of where your cat lives, it is possible to teach him to walk on a leash, especially if you start early enough. This is an interesting option if letting your cat roam freely is not possible or is too dangerous.. The Pixie-bob he also enjoys car rides, but care must be taken to ensure your safety and that of the occupants of the vehicle by placing it in a cat carrier. Either way, He is very fond of family walks and curious, enjoying observing their surroundings.

When your owners can't take you with them, for example to work during the day, It's not too hard for him to face loneliness, as long as he feels safe at home and has interactive toys to keep him busy and stimulate his faculties. This prevents you from finding other objects to entertain yourself with., such as paper towels or toilet paper, that unwinds and grinds with infinite pleasure.

He also likes to chase an object, bring it back and thus interact with the people around you, like a dog would. This can be an easy way to play with him at home.. His intelligence also allows him to learn little tricks and exercise his skills.

like most of his peers, he also likes to climb, so a cat tree is also an essential investment. Last, to complete the package, a scratching post is essential so you can scratch all you want. You better meet this natural and compelling need in this item., than in the furniture or the curtains.

Last, the Pixie-bob it is one of those rare breeds of cats that love water. A leaky faucet is a real source of fun for him: enjoy not only observing the phenomenon, but also playing with the dripping water, even staining in the sink to get wet. He also likes to jump in the bathtub if there is a bottom to play.

Health

Pixie-bob
Young pixie-bob longhair – VanWagn, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Pixie-bob It, in general, a healthy dog, which is a testament to the good work that breeders have been doing since the decade of 1980, especially to avoid inbreeding and the problems it causes.

It also, their fur, very dense and waterproof, allows it to withstand quite cold temperatures and bad weather. On the other hand, makes you suffer from the heat when the mercury rises. So, it is more suitable for temperate or cold climates. In any case, if you live in a Mediterranean climate, for example, it is essential that you have an airy and shady place to rest in the cool of the sun, as well as fresh water at your disposal at all times.

Despite your overall good health, the Pixie-bob It, like all races, more prone to certain ailments. In this case, is about:

  • cryptorchidism, which corresponds to the fact that one or two testicles have remained in the abdomen instead of descending into the sac. The animal must then be operated, since the genital gland that is left in the abdomen can become cancerous with age. It also, this prevents the cat from behaving like a non-neutered cat, that is to say, to run away and fight more. But, this condition is still very rare;
  • Dystocia, what is the difficulty to give birth. This may be due to an abnormal position of the fetus., to an excessive weight of the same or to an insufficient dilation or diameter of the pelvic canal. If the cat has more than 12 hours with contractions and they are not effective and, Therefore, has not started to give birth, it is urgent to call the vet. In most cases, the vet performs a cesarean section and then advises neutering the animal, so as not to endanger her life again with another pregnancy.

It also, the Pixie-bob has a tendency to overweight, yes no to obesity. This has consequences for the state of the Pixie-bob: can both aggravate pre-existing health problems and cause new ones to appear.

In any case, the fact that this cat is generally in good health does not mean that you should not turn to a serious breeder of Pixie-bob to have the best chance of having a healthy and well-adapted feline. In effect, a professional worthy of the name goes out of his way not only to socialize kittens from their first weeks, but also to rule out any hereditary disease by having various genetic tests performed on the proposed reproducers and excluding those who present a risk. It also, does not hesitate to carry out several tests on the kittens to confirm their good health. So, can provide the results of the various tests, in addition to a certificate of good health drawn up by a veterinarian and a list of the vaccinations received by the kitten, registered in your health or vaccination card.

Once the adoption is done, it is the owner's responsibility to take care of his partner's health throughout his life. As such, it is essential to carry out a complete health check-up at the vet at least once a year, and even more when the dog gets older. In this way, the professional has the opportunity to diagnose as soon as possible any problems that are not yet visible, to be able to treat it in the best conditions. These regular visits are also an opportunity to remember the cat's vaccinations..

So that the cat is always protected, the owner must make sure to renew the antiparasitic treatments throughout the year, whenever necessary. This applies even to indoor pets.: even if they are less exposed to the risk of parasites, they are not completely safe.

Grooming

"Pixie-bob"

Pixie Bob
Pixie-Bob Female puppy, long tail, short coat, active and very playful – Flickr

The maintenance needs of the Pixie-bob depend on the length of their dense, woolly fur, especially when molting in spring and fall.

In the case of a long-haired cat, brushing twice a week is necessary to remove dead hairs. during moulting periods, in spring and autumn, a quick daily brushing is necessary.

For the Pixie-bob shorthair, brushing once a week is enough, except during the molting period, when it is better to brush twice a week.

Regardless of the length of your hair, you also need to check and clean your ears weekly. This prevents moisture or dirt from accumulating and becoming infected.

You should also take the opportunity to examine the eyes. If required, a damp cloth should be rubbed in the corner of the eyes to remove dirt and prevent possible infection.

Neither should you neglect the maintenance of the cat's teeth, as it can cause the accumulation of dental plaque, which can cause more or less serious diseases if it turns into tartar. Brushing at least once a week with cat toothpaste is the best way to prevent plaque buildup., but it is best to brush more often, or even daily.

It is also a good idea to check your nails every month.. If you have access to the outside, natural wear and tear should be enough to file them down, but it is still essential to check that they are not too long. Yes they are, manual trimming is essential to prevent them from getting in the way, break or even injure the dog. For an individual living in a flat, this should generally be done once a month, even if it has a scratching post.

Maintaining a Pixie-bob not particularly complex. But, either its fur, his ears, his eyes, their teeth or claws, the different steps are not always easy to follow: do not hesitate to ask a specialist for help the first time. In effect, learning them from a veterinarian or professional cat groomer allows you to be effective and not risk harming your pet, or even injure her.

It also, as soon as the proper gestures are mastered, grooming sessions can be privileged moments between the master and his partner, especially because Pixie-bob loves to receive attention and caresses. The sooner you get used to it, more easily accept it and even ask for more.

feeding

Like all its fellow men, the Pixie-bob requires a diet perfectly adapted to your nutritional needs, both in terms of quality and quantity. The latter depend mainly on your age, activity level and health status.

Your daily rations must be rigorously defined, since he has an unfortunate tendency to be overweight. For this reason, unlike most cats, it is better to accustom him to fixed meals instead of leaving him food all day, since he is not able to regulate his own intake.

Good quality industrial food can be quite suitable to feed you. But, unless you are sure it meets your needs, you should avoid offering food intended for humans. Especially since giving leftovers can cause tension and damage the relationship with its owner. They may come to see this as a habit or even an obligation., and they will stubbornly demand it, meowing and expressing their discontent if they don't get it. It also, a cat needs a diet that varies little: any sudden change in your diet can alter your digestion. Last, remember that some foods that are very tasty for humans are toxic to cats.

The owner must always check the weight of his cat every month, but this is even more important for the Pixie-bob, given its tendency to obesity. In case a slip is confirmed or even accentuated in the following measurements, a visit to the vet is essential to see more clearly and know how to remedy the problem. In fact, only a professional can make a reliable diagnosis, as the weight gain may not be related to the diet or activity level of the animal: It can be, for example, a side effect of a medication or a symptom of a disease.

Last, as in the case of any other cat, it is important to keep fresh water available to your Pixie-bob at all times.

For sale "Pixie-bob"

The price of a kitten Pixie-bob usually oscillates between 900 and 1500 EUR.

In all countries, the amount required to adopt a Pixie-bob differs based on the reputation of the kennel, of the lineage from which the animal is descended and, of course, its intrinsic characteristics, especially physical. This last point explains why there are significant price differences within a litter..

Pixie Bobs

How to care for a Pixiebob cat Updated 2021 || Pixie bob cat kittens

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Colorpoint shorthair cat
Federations: CFA, WCF

Fawn Point is a rare Siamese point. Only the traditional Cat Association recognizes it as an official color. – Photo by Hockeyben

Content

History

The Colorpoint shorthair cat is a variety of domestic cat. Depending on the cat registry, can be considered an independent breed of cats, or more often a variant of a pre-existing one, if it is accepted. These cats are distinguished by their conformity to a wide range of sixteen different colors, in addition to the four standard Siamese colors.

The variety was initially created by crossing the Siamese cat with the American shorthair cat – the same mix that created the Oriental shorthair cat, but with different objectives.

The Colorpoint shorthair shares the dot coloring pattern with the Siamese, but in the non-traditional colors of red, cream, tortoiseshell and lynx dots (striped), and in small variations of the same. Regarding body style, head shape and other features, may be intermediate between the two founding breeds, showing cats leaning towards Siamese features. Those who prefer the traditional look of the Siamese may also favor the Colorpoint shorthair of a more moderate type that resemble their ancestors of the American shorthair cat in terms of shape.

The Cat Fan Association (CFA) and the World Cat Federation (WCF) they are the only major registries that recognize them as an independent breed. In other records, they are part of the races siamesa u Oriental shorthair (and may not be accepted as show and breeding quality, depending on the colors that the registry allows in these breeds, and if they allow some type of crossing in the lineage). Since these cats are a cross, various registries are reluctant to accept them as races or as Siamese valid.

Origin

The effort to produce a dotted cat of style Siamese in colors other than the traditional four began in England and America in the decade of 1940, carried out by breeders who used crosses between the Siamese cat, the Abyssinian cat and the Red domestic shorthair cat. The American shorthair cat also became part of the matrix.

At the beginning, the breeders of Colorpoint suffered setbacks and failures; in the effort to get the right colors in the right places, body type was often sacrificed Siamese. The breeding was further complicated by the difficulty of working with the red coloration because it is a sex-linked color..

Physical characteristics

"Colorpoint Shorthair Cat" is the name that the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA), an association of the breed in the United States, used to refer to spotted cats of Siamese descent and of type in colors other than the four "traditional" Siamese colors (seal, chocolate, azul y lilac point). This name is also given to cats of Siamese descent in all four recognized colors whose eight-generation pedigree shows ancestors with other colors. In records of other countries, However, «Colorpoint» (o «Colourpoint«) It is the name given to cats of the Persian type and dotted coloration, as in the Himalayan cat.

At the CFA, a Colorpoint shorthair cat It can also be any of the four traditional colors of the Siamese cat; However, can only be displayed at the red dot (also called flame point, in the Persian Family) or cream point, or any of the above colors in tabby point (also called lynx point) or tortoiseshell point.

In most records, in addition to the CFA, the Colorpoint shorthair cat not considered a separate breed, but simply a color class within the Siamese race.

Colorpoint shorthair cat
Jade, to 2 year old Siamese Flame point – Theseherodies, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Character and skills

"Colorpoint shorthair cat"

Gato Colorpoint de pelo corto
Colorpoint Shorthair. Blue eyes, White cat. Ckolony at the English-language Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Colorpoint shorthair cat is a very intelligent breed, playful and that gets along with people. They are extremely affectionate and outgoing and enjoy lazing around and playing with people., which causes them to also be described as "extroverts". They can also be very sensitive with nervous temperaments., who do not adapt well to changes in the environment or strangers.

Like the Siamese, can be extremely vocal and demanding of attention, feeling the need for human company. They have more than 100 vocal sounds, much more than other races, so they emit very unusual meows. Males are sometimes overly aggressive towards other animals and will fight with other cats when they feel that their territory has been invaded or simply to express their dominance..

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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

3,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Activity level

2,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to other pets

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Friendliness to children

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Grooming requirements

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Vocality

2,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Need for attention

2,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Affection towards its owners

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Docility

5,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Intelligence

4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Independence

2,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Hardiness

3,0 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.

But, Ann Baker He is a rather eccentric person and wants to maintain control over the evolution of "his" 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.

But, 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.

But, 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). But, if the cat is not really docile, weekly brushing may be enough.

Food

The Ragamuffin is known to be a healthy cat. But, your laziness and greed can quickly lead to weight problems in the cat. So, 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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