The Mojave Spotted was developed to preserve the bobcat in the mojave desert. The mojave desert is located in the southwestern United States, riding through California, Nevada and Arizona.
The Gato of the mojave desert was discovered in 1980 by April Langford, an American breeder. Your number has not been registered, but the colonies lived under bushes or in burrows to protect the young from the harsh desert climate.
The first colony he observed was in the small town of Hesperia, in southern california. All its members were very homogeneous in terms of their morphology: they were bigger than the domestic cats and they had powerful and raised bodies and very muscular legs that ended in feet polydactyls (of 6 to 7 fingers on each leg). His coat color was not uniform -silver, brown, gold or even black-, but they all had the same pattern of spots. Later, April Langford realized that the individuals of the different colonies shared the same appearance, except for the color of its fur.
April Langford decided to breed them to preserve this feline from extinction, endemic to mojave desert. He observed that it reproduced very slowly and began to disappear. But, his first attempts were unsuccessful, since these wild cats were not allowed to be tamed.
In 1984, accidentally found a litter of kittens under a juniper. How food was scarce during the winter, it seemed that their mother had abandoned them to survive herself. He decided to take them in instead of abandoning them to their fate. He placed them in a closed enclosure under a cedar and fed them a substitute for cat milk.. But, they were not domesticated and remained wild.
April Langford decided to cross them with him Bengal cat, also a spotted cat, which was a cross between a Domestic cat and European wildcat, the cat bengal leopard. The result was a cat thirteen with a spotted fur. But, even though they were born and raised in captivity, the first generations were still wild and were not domesticated.
At that time, to the polydactyl cats they were often called Hemingway cats, in honor of the famous American writer Ernest Hemingway. A Hemingway they gave him a gata polidรกctila, which is known to have given birth to many litters.
Cats with six or seven toes on some legs are not a special breed.; on the contrary, they are found in many different breeds. It is simply an inherited genetic defect that can occur in any individual, regardless of race or gender. Most of the time, the sixth or seventh extra toes are on the front legs, but sometimes they are in the back, and even more rarely in all four. Far from being a disease or having any effect on the health of the animal, this particularity is rather an advantage, since it gives you greater agility.
April Langford decided to call the race he was trying to create Mojave Spotted, in reference both to its geographical origins and to the stains that its representatives present.
In the Decade of 1990, the natural habitat of mojave desert wildcat was being invaded by construction, and the feline, already in danger of extinction, was disappearing.
April Langford accelerated his breeding program by continuing to cross the Mojave Spotted with the Bengal cat, but also with him American Polydactyl Cat of other races. From 2007, these crosses are no longer necessary. In effect, the created population had reached a sufficient number of individuals to be able to continue breeding only from the cats already obtained, inbred.
It also, with the passing of the generations, the Mojave Spotted began to be tamed, although there is still a long way to go.
Breed recognition and popularity
The only organization that recognizes Mojave Spotted is the International Progressive Cat Breedersโ Alliance (IPCBA), an organization specialized in new breeds of cats.
So, no major body recognizes this cat, whether international -such as the World Cat Federation (WCF), The International Cat Association (TICA) o the International Feline Federation (FIFรฉ)- or national, as the American Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), la Canadian Cat Association (CCA), el British Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) o the Official Book of Feline Origins (LOOF) French. Given its extremely confidential distribution, there is little chance this will change in the near future.
In any case, the Mojave Spotted was created primarily as a reaction to the extinction of the mojave desert wildcat, to try to keep it another way, not with the aim of developing a new breed and spreading it as widely as possible.
Just a hatchery, Cheshire Cattery, with sede in EE.UU., participates in the development of Mojave Spotted. Giving cats are systematically neutered, to avoid parallel breeding and maintain control.
All of these factors combined limit the reputation of the Mojave Spotted.
Physical characteristics
Larger than most house cats, the Mojave Spotted it's a long and powerful body type (or long and substantial).
The body have strong bones and muscles, but the skin on the belly is slightly distended, so they are not too prominent. The back is prolonged with a tail that can be short or medium long.
The legs they are long, wide and very muscular, slightly larger at the rear than at the front. The vast majority of individuals are polydactyls, that is to say, have of 6 to 7 fingers on one or more feet. This specificity is due to a dominant gene, that is to say, it is enough for an individual to have inherited this genetic mutation from one of their parents to be thirteen. In general, the phenomenon is symmetrical, that is to say, affects both hind legs (that normally only have 4 fingers) or the front two (in which there are usually 4 fingers and a spur), the latter being the most common case. Some individuals are even polydactyls on all fours. In all cases, the claws are powerful and sharp.
The head it is quite fine, slightly oval and medium in size. Ears are medium to large, with a wide base and rounded tips. Some individuals have a tuft of hair at the base. The eyes they are big, oval and widely spaced. The snout it's wide, short and square. The leather of the nose, that is to say, the part where the nostrils meet, it is solid pink, black or brown. Last, whiskery areas are prominent.
The fur of the Mojave Spotted it's short and silky. Accepted colors and patterns are brindle, the leopard, snow leopard, the rose window, Marten, Brown, the fawn, the silver, blue and charcoal. On the other hand, the coat has dark spots that may fade with age.
But, remember that the Mojave Spotted is still a very new and developing breed. So, It is possible that, in the future, and in particular in the context of a possible recognition by some important organization, details are added about the appearance that this or that part of your body should have. It also, there may also be changes in your current appearance.
Varieties
The Mojave Spotted comes in 4 varieties:
Mojave Spotted short-tailed polydactyl;
Mojave Spotted semi-long-tailed polydactyl;
Mojave Spotted short-tailed;
Mojave Spotted medium long-tailed.
The same litter can combine representatives of the four varieties.
Apart from differences in the number of toes or the length of the tail, all individuals of the breed have the same physical appearance and temperament.
Character and skills
The Mojave Spotted developed a handful of decades ago in response to the extinction of the mojave desert wildcat. Numbers are still low, so you have to be cautious when generalizing about their temperament. But, whatever the individual observed, your wild ancestors are never far away in your family tree. Although he appreciates the company of man, this wild cat is still very independent, and only with successive generations is domestication possible. In any case, it is difficult to have him locked up, so you can't be happy in a flat, even more so when it is very active and its hunting instinct is still very present.
They need a garden to thrive, and they won't hesitate to explore beyond it if they get the chance: it is difficult to contain them in a concrete environment. In fact, being extremely curious, they usually have a strong desire to exceed the limits of their territory. Agile and athletic, they don't get tired of climbing trees, search and capture small prey, and even playing in the water, as they are one of the few cat breeds that love water.
As the breed is still new and developing, it's hard to say if he Mojave Spotted will eventually behave like most house cats, and when will, as successive selections are made. But, it is true that with each new generation, being increasingly away from the wild cat, becomes a little more tame.
Health
Since the Mojave Spotted is still very new and is in full development, information about your health and, in particular, about the possible diseases to which you are predisposed.
On the other hand, a trait inherited from European wildcat from which it descends, and that explains in part that the latter is close to extinction, is its very low fertility. the number of litters (from one to three a year) is comparable to domestic cats, but instead the number of kittens they produce (of 1 to 3 at most) is significantly less. Obviously, this is not unrelated to the fact that the number of specimens of the breed grows very slowly.
โท The world of Pets: Dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, amphibians
Despite its wild origins, the Chausie cat has all the features of a domestic cat. Very attached to its owner.
Photo: courtneyBolton (Filckr)
Content
Characteristics "Chausie cat"
Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Chausie 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
5,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)
Activity level
5,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)
Friendliness to other pets
3,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)
Friendliness to children
1,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)
Grooming requirements
2,0 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
5,0 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
According to legend, the Chausie cat it is a distant cousin of wild cats domesticated in honor of the goddess Bastet in ancient Egypt. In fact, the reality is quite different, despite the eerie similarities between the Chausie real and the artistic representations of some cats of the time.
Born at the end of the years 60 or early 70 in United States, the Chausie would be the first hybrid breed resulting from the cross between a jungle cat (Felis chaus) who lived essentially in Egypt, India, Central Asia and Southeast Asia, and domestic short-haired cats of various breeds, having in common physical characteristics close to those of the Felis chaus.
The idea behind the creation of this hybrid was to create a "domesticated jungle cat" that looked like a Felis chaus but that he was as tame as a domestic cat. The Chausie cat It was intended to attract both daring people trying to domesticate real wild cats and lovers of "exotic" cats.. The bet paid off over the years 90: passionate breeders managed to stabilize the characteristic traits of the breed and consolidate the genetic stock to facilitate breeding.
Thanks to the efforts of these breeders, the International Cat Association (the TICA, an organization that lists and registers all existing cat pedigrees in the world) recognized the breed in 1995. In 2003, gave the owners of the Chausie the opportunity to present your companion in the feline shows organized under your aegis, granting him the title of New Race. But, in the news, they cannot participate in the competitions by themselves.
In France, el LEAF (Livre Officiel des Origines Fรฉlines, an association with missions similar to the TICA) follow the position of the TICA and allow owners to participate in exhibitions, but not compete.
As for the other feline associations in the world, and in particular the FIFE (Fรฉdรฉration Internationale Fรฉline), they still don't recognize the breed.
Today, the breeders of Chausie cat they keep working to get new generations closer and closer physically to their wild cousin, especially through crosses with the Abyssinian cat. The breed is found primarily in the United States and Europe, but it also has a following in South Asia and India, although its dissemination is more confidential.
The Chausie it's a big cat (especially the males) with a long powerful guy and a long rectangular body. Has a sleek appearance and powerful musculature, but it is not very showy. The rib cage is wide, the legs are of medium length with stronger hind legs than most other cat breeds. The tail is shorter than that of other breeds and reaches the hock.
In the face, the Chausie has a broad, triangular head with prominent cheekbones, a rounded forehead and a long muzzle. The ears are wide at the base and wide open. Feathers are very popular with breeders of this breed. The eyes, oval in shape and slightly flattened on top, are generally golden yellow hazelnut in color. Light green tones are also accepted.
This cat's coat has a dense coat of short to medium length. The fur is reminiscent of its wild ancestor, the jungle cat Felis chaus, especially for its ticking. The more ticking (several colored stripes on the same coat), more appreciated will be the cat in the feline exhibitions.
Size and weight
Size: Of 40 to 50 cm.
Male weight: Of 6 to 11 kg
female weight: 6-9 kg
Varieties of "Chausie cat"
Currently, the standards TICA y LOOF they only recognize three colors. There may be a Chausie cat with other colors, but they cannot be registered in the LOOF and / or TICA.
Full black
The kitties Chausie negros may show slight brindle markings that disappear as the kitten grows older. Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause your black to turn brown.
Gray-haired black tabby
The black tabby pattern is a direct descendant of the wild cat Felis chaus and is exclusive to Chausie. In fact, no other domestic cat has this pattern, unless you have a wild ancestor in your family tree. So, it is easy to understand why this variety is the most sought after, since it is the most similar to the fur of the jungle cat.
The kitties, originally black, show black brindle markings as they grow, while her fur becomes lighter. The coat of the black tabby has a ticking that changes depending on the part of the body, ranging from dark mouse gray with black tips to a three-striped ticking (mouse gray, black and white) in the finest specimens. This characteristic reaches its full and definitive expression when the cat has 3 years.
Some Chausies gray-haired blacks can be mistaken for a Chausie negro when silver ticking is scarce.
Brown tabby
The brown tabby has a black tabby marking on a brown background, with stripes on the inside of the legs and on the tip of the tail. The shade of brown can vary from cat to cat, as long as it doesn't get too close to the Abyssinian. As with the first two colors, the final color of the Chausie brown ticked tabby not fixed until 3 years of age.
Despite its wild origins, the Chausie cat has all the features of a domestic cat. Very attached to his master, even exclusive, it is a sociable cat that demands a lot of attention and barely supports loneliness. Very affectionate, You can enjoy both being indoors with their owners at home and playing with the other animals in the family. This cat also adapts very well to the presence of children, for whom it can be a good playmate, provided he is taught to control his claws from a young age.
In effect, even if it is a good domestic cat, the Chausie also has a strong character, is often stubborn and may have aggressive reactions, inherited from its wild origins. Your fearlessness can also play tricks on you, especially when it goes outside. In any case, he needs a teacher capable of having authority and patience to reveal all his qualities and temper his predatory side.
True athlete, has a reputation for being a tireless gamer and spending without sparing expense. In fact, they do better in a house with a garden or in a very large apartment, that provides them with enough space and plenty of opportunities to play and run around in the absence of their owner.
Last, the Chausie cat distinguished by high intelligence and hunting instincts superior to those of other domestic breeds. It is one of those cats that likes to learn tricks, look for the ball, walk with harness… but also open taps and doors in the absence of supervision. Thus, it is recommended to use cat toys and stimulate their attention as much as possible, both for your well-being and for the living room furniture.
Care and grooming of the "Chausie cat"
The coat of the Chausie is slightly longer than that of normal domestic cats, but still easy to care. Regular brushing and removal of dead hairs ensure a shiny coat.
Indoor or outdoor cat?
Due to his offspring from a kind of wild cat, the Chausie cat he is very fond of freedom. This athletic cat also has a strong drive to move and can easily jump six feet from a standing position.. Thus, keeping them indoors is only possible under special conditions. If you cannot provide access to the outside, the cat must have a large outdoor enclosure. You must be able to live your natural instincts, ideally hunting mice and birds, to be happy. If you have your cat in an outdoor enclosure, You should be prepared to regularly receive โgiftsโ from your cat in the form of prey..
How much activity does he need? "Chausie cat"?
This affectionate cat likes to be around his owners and is reluctant to stay home alone. If you are a person who works, it is better to have two cats so that the animals do not get bored. A large, sturdy scratching post and several cat toys will keep them busy and provide variety around the home.. They love to play catch and chase mice and balls. You can also give your cat, water lover, a special treat with a soak in the tub or a bubbly drinking fountain. Some cats like water so much that they will even follow you into the shower.
The Chausie is a relatively recent hybrid. Thus, There is very little scientific literature on health problems specific to this breed..
But, analyzes of animals born from two different species draw a picture of pathologies that Chausies, as hybrids, can present: male infertility prevalence, fluctuating physical development (very large or very small individuals), digestive problems, behavioral instability (this cat is still more aggressive than a real house cat) and, in rare cases, heart problems due to malformations of the heart muscle.
Generations of Chausies They are classified according to their "closeness" to their wild ancestor on a scale from F1 to F4 and higher, F1 being the generation born directly from hybridization between a domestic cat (Felis sylvestris catus) and a wild cat (Felis chaus). Males of generations F1 to F3, or even F4, are generally sterile, which considerably complicates the work of breeders of Chausie to develop this breed.
Last, due to its wild origins, this cat has inherited a shorter digestive tract than other breeds. This makes them more susceptible to certain intestinal problems., including inflammation from food allergies, and predisposes them to gluten intolerance.
Life expectancy
12 to 14 years
Food
As their direct ancestors are wild animals, a high-protein diet is even more important for the breed than for other cats. Ideally, feed them their own BARF food. In this way, your cat will have all the important components of a healthy diet that it would get in the wild.
For sale "Chausie cat"
Before buying a Chausie cat, you must be absolutely sure that the hybrid cat suits you. If you can't offer enough exercise, you don't even have to think about getting a cat that likes to move. In any case, in Europe it will be difficult for you to find a breeder. The breed is not very common outside its country of origin.. If you find a breeder, you must check first if he is responsible and takes care of the health of his breeding animals. Due to its rarity, the kitties Chausie they naturally have their price. Depending on the breeder, you can spend up to 10.000 euros for a purebred F1 kitten.
To understand the Chausie cat, it is also important to know the jungle cat(Felis chaus).
The jungle cat found in nine subspecies in Asia, Middle East and Egypt.
With his black plumes in his ears, resembles a lynx, which also earned it the name "swamp fox.".
In the wild, the jungle cats they are solitary animals and they hunt at sunset.
Its habitat is mainly near water bodies or wetlands in inaccessible reed thickets or swampy riparian forests. So, they are not afraid of water and can swim excellently.
In captivity, the jungle cats they become very tame and it is said that the ancient Egyptians even trained them to hunt.
The Ocicat, sometimes canine behavior, is distinguished by its great adaptability, which is an undeniable asset to make it an excellent family cat.
Content
Characteristics "Ocicat cat"
Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Ocicat 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
5,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)
Activity level
5,0 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
1,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)
Vocality
4,0 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
1,0 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 Ocicat is the result of the crossing made from 1964 by Virginia Daly, an American breeder, and its name comes from the contraction of the words ยซocelotยป y ยซcatยซ. In fact, although it is the result of purely domestic ancestry, this breed looks a lot like ocelote (Leopardus pardalis), a large wild cat that lives in Central America.
But, the genesis of the breed is mainly due to chance. In effect, the objective of Virginia Daly was to raise one Abyssinian catcolourpoint, far from the image of the Ocicat…
Like this, in 1964, a litter of a Abyssinian cat ruddy and a Siamese catsealpoint. Among the kittens obtained, the breeder was left with a single female with traits mainly Abyssinians. She was crossed with a male Siamese chocolate-colored. The resulting puppies physically resembled the Abyssinians, but they all had the color point. The breeder was immediately satisfied with the result and repeated the same crossing until one day a kitten with a particular coat was born.: call Tonga, one of the kittens had golden spots on white background. By not coinciding with the objective of Virginia Daly, was quickly castrated and sold to a private.
It was not until some time later that the breeder turned her attention back to this type of wild cat of primitive color, during a correspondence with the geneticist Clyde Keeler. Seeking to revive an extinct feline breed, the "spotted fishing cat of Egypt", was very interested in the fur of Tonga. He would have liked to cross it with his own mother, but the recent sterilization of the young cat made it impossible. Then the same crossing was repeated that gave rise to Tonga, until you get stained individuals. That's how it went, and the history of Ocicat started in earnest.
Soon Virginia Daly crossed these spotted cats with the American shorthair cat. The purpose of these unions was to obtain larger individuals, as well as the silver color of the race.
Over the years 80, the Ocicat began to be known and appreciated by the public and breeders. Soon, many breeders became interested in this new breed and international organizations began to officially recognize it. Like this, after being accepted in 1966 by the Cat Fanciersโ Association (CFA) as an experimental breed, obtained full breed status in 1987. That same year, the International Cat Association (TICA) also recognized the breed. Five years later, in 1992, it was the turn of the Fรฉdรฉration Internationale Fรฉline (FIFรฉ).
This period also marked the spread of the breed throughout the world and its recognition by various national bodies., as the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) in Britain or the Livre Officiel des Origines Fรฉlines (LOOF) in France.
But, Although various organizations from various parts of the world now recognize the Ocicat, its number of members is still limited. This can be explained in part by the fact that in some countries all interbreeding with any other breed is prohibited., which mechanically limits population growth as well as the diversity of the genetic heritage. But, this is not the case everywhere: en el Reino Unido, for example, crosses with Abyssinians are allowed, which obviously facilitates its diffusion.
In any case, today there are great differences in the establishment of the Ocicat from one country to another. In France, still a very rare breed of cats, with less than 10 registrations per year in the LOOF since the beginning of the century – the number is even nil in some years.
The same is true in Switzerland, although, unlike france, looks like a small upward trend is taking place, since since 2017 more than 10 births per year in the Fรฉdรฉration Fรฉline Helvรฉtique (FFH).
The Ocicat is much more present in the UK, since the number of annual births registered by the GCCF exceeds 50 cats a year. Although this figure may seem high compared to other countries, it is still a decrease compared to the second half of the decade of 2000 and the first of 2010, when he approached a hundred.
Last, is in your country of origin, United States, where the Ocicat is more represented and has been more successful in establishing itself in households. Throughout the decade of 2010, stood around the post 20 (of something less than 50) in the CFA's annual registration ranking.
Physical characteristics
An ocicat presented at the FIFรฉ cat show in Hyvinkรครค in Finland. Color : Blue spotted tabby – Heikki Siltala-catza.net, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Ocicat it has particular physical traits that make it a wild-looking feline race. More concretely, although it is a Domestic cat, looks a lot like a ocelote and represents a perfect blend of grace and power: a medium-sized feline, muscular and always very elegant. It is much heavier than it seems.
The Ocicat is built around a fairly deep chest. Its back must be straight, but the topline is slightly higher at the back of the body. The tail is long, fine and has a dark tip.
The legs they are strong, muscular and of medium length. The feet must be oval, compact and proportional to the legs.
The head it is triangular and angular, like that of his Asian ancestor the Siamese. It rests very harmoniously on a neck fine and quite arched. The snout it is wide but well defined. Master a strong jawline and a well-defined chin.
The ears they are large and set high on the head. They usually have small strands of hair on top.
Their eyes they are large, almond-shaped. They are very expressive and reflect their intelligence. All are accepted colors, except blue. On the other hand, there is not necessarily a correspondence between eye color and coat color.
The fur of the Ocicat it is made up of short hairs, soft and shiny, always decorated with those spots that characterize it so much, giving it the appearance of a wild cat. The spots along the spine are rather round and concentrated, while those of the shoulders and the back of the body are more dispersed. The largest markings are usually found on the flanks and under the belly. The tail also has these markings, and there are usually darker hairs around the eyes and on the cheeks. It also, the forehead is usually marked with an "M", also darker than the basic coat.
There is some diversity in the exact appearance of the fur of the Ocicat, with no less than 3 fur patterns (solid, spotted tabby and silver / smoke spotted tabby) and 6 colors (chocolate, blue, leonado, black, cinnamon and lilac) possible. In all cases, slight silver shine possible, which raises the number of combinations to 36.
Last, the breed is characterized by a certain sexual dimorphism, since females are usually smaller and thinner than males.
Size and weight
Size: Of 30 to 35 cm.
Weight: Of 3 to 5 kg
Breed standard
The breed standards are documents prepared by official bodies that list the conditions that an Ocicat must meet to be fully recognized as belonging to the breed.:
Standard FIFรฉ (Fรฉdรฉration Internationale Fรฉline)
The Ocicat is always cheerful and energetic by nature. Very sociable and active, loves to play with his humans or other animals.
They are always happy to play, but they also like to spend long periods of time resting with their owners, for example, spending the night on his lap. Many of the representatives of the breed tend to choose a particular family member with whom they form an especially intense bond., although this does not prevent them from being affectionate with others.
This closeness to their humans makes them an excellent student for those who want to teach their cat tricks.. These may include, can learn to find and retrieve objects thrown by his master, to lie down when ordered or to respond to his name.
In fact, this little feline totally breaks the image of the proud and independent cat. He is always happy to accompany his owners everywhere, without hesitation to follow them around the house… or by any other site. In fact, is usually perfectly capable of walking on a leash, making it much easier to take you everywhere. And when that is not an option, can be carried in arms: that they take it is not a problem, as long as it's done with a little respect.
It is also an ideal option for someone who wants to take their cat on vacation or even on a trip., as it can adapt to a new environment without too much trouble.
This is possible thanks to the fact that he is not worried about meeting new people.. He even likes to receive visitors at home and is not shy with them. For them, represent new possibilities for interaction and sources of caresses, and does not hesitate to meet him on his own.
It also, both at home and elsewhere, things go better because he easily assimilates the rules. He is very sensitive to vocal reprimands from his beloved masters and, usually, does not repeat the same mistake twice once caught red-handed (for example, if you have climbed on the table during the meal, or any other undesirable behavior). It is also common for him to show that he has understood the lesson by adopting an attitude similar to that of shame, like many dogs do.
In summary, do not be fooled by its wild appearance: this sometimes canine behavioral animal is distinguished by its great adaptability, which is an undeniable asset to make it an excellent family cat.
Often becomes the best friend of children, as long as they know how to behave with respect towards him. However, it is important to keep in mind the basic rules of precaution: Whatever your race, a cat should never be left alone with a young child, without the slightest adult supervision.
They can also be very suitable for older people, especially if they spend a lot of time at home and like to give them attention and affection.
Regardless of the age of the owners, they love attention and are only suitable for people who can and enjoy spending time with their pet. Otherwise, will suffer a lot.
Allowing him to have a little playmate by his side can be a wise way to keep him from suffering from loneliness., since their sociability does not only extend to humans: in general, appreciates sharing your home with a partner or with a dog, as long as, of course, this one belongs to a breed that is friendly to cats. Being dominant by nature, usually direct the other animals in the house, even when they are bigger than yours. But, this trait means that introductions to an unknown animal must be done very gradually, to avoid any kind of conflict, especially if he's also the dominant type.
In view of his tendency to play with everything that moves, It does not seem wise to try to get it to live with another animal that may be prey. In fact, it is better to avoid coming into contact with rodents, birds or fish, since it could end badly.
Due to his mental acuity and love of the game, not only quickly learn the tricks, they also love puzzles and other toys designed to stimulate their intelligence. But, they can sometimes become possessive of them, so you have to teach them to share from a young age. It also, precious items that you might mistake for games must be hidden or kept out of reach at all costs, taking into account that he is perfectly capable of learning to open doors or drawers by watching his masters do it…
Like most of its congeners, to the Ocicat he loves to hang from the heights. And given its flexibility, there is no furniture, however big it is, that you resist. You also need plenty of space and toys to feel good and get all the exercise you need.. If you live in an apartment, it must be of a certain size and equipped with numerous games, as well as with furniture and a cat tree that allows him to observe his little world from above.
Last, the Ocicat has inherited a strong voice from his ancestor the Siamese cat. He does not hesitate to use it when he has a request to make, and knows perfectly how to make himself understood when he is hungry or needs attention. Their meows are also a very good conversation tool., since he likes to chat with his master responding to his voice. Their purrs are also especially loud; some like, to others not so much. In any case, It is not as loud or demanding as the Siamese.
grooming and care "Ocicat cat"
Picture of a cinnamonsilverspotted ocicat – Hansboskar, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Ocicat it is a breed of cat that is easy to care for.
Its short and soft coat does not need to be brushed more than once a week to remove dead hair. But, to avoid dead hair all over the house, more frequent brushing is necessary during spring and fall shedding periods.
It is seldom necessary to bathe your dog. when it is so, it is essential to use a shampoo specially designed for cats.
Weekly brushing is also an opportunity to take care of other parts of the body. The first thing to do is check the condition of your eyes and clean the area around them if necessary.. This will help prevent infections and detect any problems in this area early..
The same goes for the ears.: a weekly check and cleaning to remove dirt will help limit the appearance of problems in this area, starting with ear infections.
The teeth should also be brushed regularly with a special toothpaste for felines.. This is especially important, since the Ocicat is especially prone to periodontitis: brushing prevents plaque formation, which is the cause of many oral problems, including this one. Daily brushing is recommended, but if it is done once a week, it's already very good.
As for the claws, they tend to grow quite fast. So, if he only goes out or a little time passes, they usually need to be trimmed regularly. If they get too long, not only can they hinder you when you move, but also break and potentially injure you at the same time. In any case, if your dog does not have access to the outside, it is essential that you have a scratching post: otherwise, you risk using furniture or curtains to scratch.
The gestures to take care of your cat's coat, as well as his eyes, ears, teeth and claws, should not be done randomly, since you run the risk of harming or even injuring you. The first time, no hesitation to learn the correct way of doing things from a professional vet or cat groomer. It also, there are many reasons to get your kitten used to being handled from an early age, so that grooming sessions are not unpleasant for him, but that, on the other hand, be beautiful moments of complicity.
Indoor or outdoor cat?
The cats Ocicat they do not necessarily need to have access to the outside to feel comfortable. But, it would be ideal if you could allow the animals to go out into the wild from time to time. The ideal is a secure garden or, at least, a safe outdoor area. Basically, representatives of this breed always want to be close to their humans and not be left alone for a long time, so cats don't go on long excursions, but they stay close. Due to his affection and easy training, it is also possible to accustom the kitten Ocicat on the leash and take small excursions into nature.
How much activity does he need? "Ocicat cat"?
If you are thinking of buying a Ocicat, you should know that you will only be happy if you get enough attention. Play time and pampering together are essential. Since cats with an athletic build have quite a bit of energy, you have to dedicate time to hunting games, but intelligence games are also very well accepted. It also, representatives of this breed always seek contact with their humans, so it is especially important that, as a member of the family, be allowed to always be where the center of activity is. It also, must provide appropriate opportunities for scratching and climbing, so that the existing urge to move can also be acted upon. So being alone isn't too hard, you always have to provide a Ocicat a companion.
Health and nutrition
"Ocicat cat"
Ocicat "Rizzo" (cat breed) – ToB, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Ocicat is generally in good health and lives a long time (until 15 years).
But, is not immune to certain problems inherited from its ancestors the Siamese cat and the Abyssinian cat:
Hepatic amyloidosis, a disease that can affect the kidneys and/or liver. Causes incomplete dissolution of certain proteins and leads to a buildup of deposits in organs. Loss of appetite, the diarrhea and vomiting it causes often lead to significant weight loss. Appears among 1 and 5 years of age and must be diagnosed quickly so that it can be controlled with specific treatment and a low-protein diet. Failure to do so can be fatal;
The pyruvate kinase deficiency (PKDef), an inherited condition that corresponds to a deficiency of this enzyme important for the proper development of red blood cells. The consequence is anemia, more or less serious depending on the case, causing various symptoms such as lethargy, diarrhea, weight loss and eating disorders;
The Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (the cardiomyopathy), which is the most common heart disease seen in cats and corresponds to excessive thickening of the walls of the heart. It can be of hereditary origin, but this is only one of the possible causes. In all cases, manifests itself in various ways (breathing difficulties, hindquarters paralysis, vomiting, lethargy, significant weight loss, etc.), but the symptoms usually appear suddenly. Some individuals recover within a few months, while others die quickly;
The periodontal disease (o periodontitis), what is an inflammation of the gums. If the problem is not treated in time, dental abscesses may form, and it can also occur, for example, loosening of teeth or severe difficulty chewing certain foods. Longer term, if the bacteria reach the circulatory system and the jaw, infection can lead to death;
Progressive reticular atrophy, an incurable, inherited eye disease that causes progressive loss of vision, culminating in blindness. It has been found in some individuals, but its prevalence is still very low in the population of the breed.
The best way to avoid acquiring a cat that may suffer from some hereditary disease in the near future is to go to a serious breeder. Any breeder of Ocicat trust must be able to present not only a veterinary health certificate, but also the animal's health card (or vaccination record), containing the vaccines administered, as well as the results of genetic tests performed on the parents or the kitten, that demonstrate that they are free of inherited diseases.
Last, even if your pet looks healthy, a routine annual visit to the vet never hurts, and in fact it is highly recommended. Allows a complete health check, that sometimes allows discovering emerging problems, and also offers the opportunity to check that vaccinations are up to date. It also, the owner must ensure that their pet's antiparasitic treatments are renewed throughout the year, whenever necessary, so that the pet never stops being protected.
Food
The Ocicat he is a little complicated cat when it comes to feeding and is very happy with good quality industrial food. He also likes prepared meat dishes, vegetables and starch.
In any case, the products chosen and the servings supplied must be adapted to your needs, that depend first of all on your age, your state of health and the amount of physical exercise you do on a daily basis.
The Ocicat not especially prone to obesity but, as with any race, it is important to watch your weight. This is especially true if you have been neutered, as this increases the risk of obesity. So, a monthly weigh-in is necessary, and any deviation that is confirmed or even accentuated the next time must be taken seriously: then it is necessary to take him to the vet to identify the origin of this weight gain. This may be due to a diet that is not adapted in quality and / or quantity., but also to the appearance of another health problem.
It also, like any cat, a bowl of fresh, clean water should be available at all times.
For sale "Ocicat cat"
The price of a Ocicat usually oscillates between 700 and 1400 EUR.
But, in Europe, the number of breeders can be counted on the fingers of one hand, so it is often necessary to arm yourself with patience to find the rare pearl: you are very often placed on a waiting list for months.
One option is to search the UK, where there are many more breeders. This allows you to choose from a larger number of kittens, while avoiding long delays.
whatever the country, the amount charged depends, in particular, of the reputation of the kennel, from the lineage the kitten comes from, but also and above all of its physical characteristics. In the case of adoption from abroad, It must be taken into account that several costs are added to this price: transport, quarantine, administrative transactions, etc.
Interesting data
The Ocicats They are quite fond of water and some representatives of the breed turn out to be "water rats" and enjoy a bath in the bathtub or pool.
The "premium" breed known today as Ragdoll cat is an early descendant of a line of Cherubim cats.
Photo: KRO-Media - Flicker
Content
History
Before becoming the RagaMuffins cat on ACFA โ , 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 -> los Ragdolls of the IRCA โ only.
The founders were actively breeding the entire spectrum of lines of Cherubim cats in the IRCA โ until 1992, When, due to the deterioration of the health and stability of Ann Baker, they decided to leave the IRCA โ 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 โ 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.
โท The world of Pets: Dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, amphibians
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 Catshorthair 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".
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 ยซNebelยป (What does "fog" mean?) and the Russian ยซNeboยป (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 Fรฉlines (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 Fรฉdรฉration Internationale Fรฉline (FIFรฉ) 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 Orรญgenes 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.
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:
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.
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 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.
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 Fรฉdรฉration Internationale Fรฉline (FIFรฉ) 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 Fรฉlines (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
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:
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"
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
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.
Contrary to what the various exotic names might suggest, was created in the United States.
Photo by blackmystica
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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.
โท The world of Pets: Dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, amphibians
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.
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ยซColorpointยป 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 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, ยซwide hair colorpointยป, 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 38-39ยฐC, 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.
