About This Site

Have any questions? Send an email to: XangaKittenQueen@yahoo.com

I am currently making links to every breed on this site so it is not so cluttered up!

The links I have done are below:

The Breeds On This Site

These are the breeds I have A-Z. To view their information: scroll down to the entry below this one 

Right now I am making links to all the breeds on this site. I only have a few of them done. To find their information, click on the breed.

have to start all over again *grrrrrrrrrr*

A

Abyssinian

Accicat- see Ocicat

African Shorthair- see Sokoke

Alaskan Snow Cat- see Snowshoe

Alergian Cat- see Abyssinian

Alpaca Cat- see LaPerm

American Blue- see Russian Blue

American Bobtail

American Curl

American Forest Longhair- see Maine Coon

American Keuda

American Longhair- see Maine Coon

American Shag- see Maine Coon

American Shorthair

American Snughead- see Maine Coon

American Wirehair

Angola- see Turkish Angora

Angora- see Turkish Angora

Angora (British)

Archangel- see Russian Blue

Arkhara- see Turkish Angora

Asian

Asian Shorthair- see Asian

Asian Longhair- see Chantilly/ Tiffany Cat

Asian Semi- Longhair- see Chantilly/ Tiffany Cat

Australian Mist

Australian Tiffanie

B

Balinese

Bengal Cat

Berkshire Brown- see Havana Brown

Birman

Bombay

British Shorthair

Burmese

Burmilla

Butterfly Rex- see Devon Rex

C

Calico

California Spangled

California Toyger- see Toyger

Canadian Hairless- see Sphynx

Chantilly/ Tiffany Cat

Chartruex

Chausie

Chinchilla Persian

Chocolate Siamese- see Tonkinese

Colorpoint Longhair

Colorpoint Shorthair

Cornish Rex

Cymric- see Manx

D

Devon Rex

Diamond Eye- see Khao Manee

Don Sphynx

E

Egyptian Mau

Exotic- see Exotic Shorthair

Exotic Shorthair

F

Foldex

Foreign White

G

German Rex

Gold & Silver Eye Cat- see Khao Manee

H

Havana Brown

Himalayan- see Colorpoint Longhair

Honeybear

I

Italian Curtosino

J

Japanese Bobtail

Javanese

K

Khao Manee

Korat

Kurilian Bobtail Longhair and Shorthair

L

LaPerm

Longhaired Abyssinian- see Somali

Longhaired Russian Blue- see Nebelung

M

Maine Coon

Maltese Blue- see Russian Blue

Manx

Mojave Spotted

Munchkin

N

Nebelung

Neva Masquerde- see Siberian Cat

Norwegian Forest Cat

O

Ocicat

Ojos Azules

Oriental Cat

Oriental Longhair

Oriental Shorthair

P

Persian

- Solid Color Division

- Silver and Golden Division

-Shaded and Smoke Division

-Tabby Division

-Parti-Color Division

-Bicolor Division

-Himalayan Division

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Peterbald

Pixie-Bob

Poodle Cat

Pure White Thai Shorthair- see Khao Manee

Q

R

Ragamuffin

Ragdoll

Russian Blue

S

Savannah

Scottish Fold

Selkirk Rex

Serenti- see Somali

Seychellois

Siamese

Siberian Cat

Siberian Forest Cat- see Norwegian Forest Cat

Silver & Gold Eye Cat- see Khao Manee

Singapura

Snow Cat- see Snowshoe

Snowshoe

Sokoke

Somali

Sphynx

Spotted Mist- see Australian Mist

T

Tabby

Thai Shorthair- see Khao Manee

Tiffanie- see Chantilly/ Tiffany Cat

Tiffany- see Chantilly/Tiffany Cat

Tonkinese

Toyger

Turkish Angora

Turkish Van

U

V

W

White Jewel- see Khao Manee

X

Y

Yankee Cat- see Maine Coon

York Chocolate

Z

Zibeline- see Burmese

To view these breeds look at the entry below:

Domestic Cat Breeds And Info

To search for a breed of cat press Ctrl + F and type in the breed if there is a breed of cat that you know of that is not on this site email me and let me know by telling me the breed. Thank you

A

-Angora (British)

      In Victorian times Angora Cat was immensely popular, but was soon eclipsed by the even more exotic Persian. By the early 20th century the original Angora had virtually vanished in the West. In the 1960s some British breeders decided to re-create the Angora Cat. For the program the suitable long-haired Oriental cats were used. The soft coat and the bushy tail were successfully obtained, but the body build remained that of the oriental cats.
     Since then, the original breed has been rediscovered in Turkey and once again brought to the West. Now we have two Angoras with very different origins. To avoid misunderstandings it was decided to call Angoras from Turkey 'Turkish Angora' and re-created ones 'British Angoras'.

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-Asian

Other Names: Asian Shorthair

These Asian cats are of medium build and resemble closely their ancestors the Burmese. In the Asians the female is much smaller and daintier than the male. The head has good width between the ears and a gently rounded dome. The jaw is wide at the hinge tapering to a broad blunt muzzle. In profile the head forms a short wedge with a firm chin and short nose. The chin and the tip of the nose are in the same vertical plane. The ears are of medium size with a rounded tip. They are set so as to continue the angle of the face and are slightly tilted forward. The eyes are set well apart and are full and expressive. The eyes may be any colour from yellow through to green depending on the variety. The body is firm and muscular with a strong straight back. The legs are of medium length and the hind legs are a little longer than the front. The paws are oval and the tail is medium to long tapering slightly to a rounded tip.

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-Australian Mist

Other names: Spotted Mist

The Australian Mist was Made in Australia - the first locally bred pedigree cat. Burmese, Abyssinian and Australian Domestic shorthair cats were combined to create them. They mix the loving personality of the Burmese with the lively intelligence of the Abyssinians and the genetic vigour of Domestic tabbies, reflecting the best of its ancestry while having its own character. They are recognized Australia-wide, and increasingly overseas, as a Championship quality pedigreed cat.
There is nothing extreme about Australian Mists (other than their affectionate, playful nature). They are of moderate size, have large expressive eyes in a range of greens and a glossy, short coat on a warm cream background, which is easy to care for. The patterns are seen through a misted veil. The nose, chin and whisker pads are broad giving the face a generous, open look with delicate tabby markings.

They make perfect pets for children of all ages, even very young ones, as they are tolerant of handling, and are not inclined to scratch. As kittens they are lively, but sober up a little on maturity. Their life expectancy is in the mid to late teens.

Australian Mists thrive on human contact, making them happy to remain indoors between dusk and dawn or to be wholly indoor pets, an advantage as most people now prefer to keep their pets indoors. This also protects native wildlife. Some Mists can be trained to go for walks on a lead.

Their tendency to crawl into the nearest lap with or without invitation and to constantly hang around to see what people are up to, makes them excellent companions for home workers and invalids. Desexed cats and kittens fit in easily with all sorts of cats and dogs. Selective breeding has further enhanced these qualities, creating a truly companionable pet, which quickly becomes a member of the family.

It became obvious that Marbled Spotted Mist was an awkward name. It was felt we should change it and the name Australian Mist sprang to mind as many breeds are named with a geographical component and at the time it was the only home-grown cat breed.

Waratah National Cat Alliance approved the name change in April 1988 and ACF and CCCofA both approved the name change in June, 1998. The Spotted Mist became officially known as the "Australian Mist" with two patterns: Spotted and Marbled.

They come in:

Two patterns -
spotted or marbled

Seven Colors -
Brown, Blue, Chocolate, Lilac, Caramel, Gold or Peach

This carefully developed breed of delicately spotted or marbled cats is tops for temperament, full of love and fun, clever yet relaxed and friendly. Increasingly popular with first time pedigree cat buyers, its well bred but not extreme appearance appeals as essentially cat.

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- Australian Tiffanie

The Australian Tiffanie derives from the Burmilla breeding program. Burmillas are Chinchilla x Burmese. Burmilla x Burmilla may produce longhair kittens (a recessive gene) known as the Australian Tiffanie. See also Tiffanie, Asian Longhair..

History

The Australian Tiffanie is a very new breed of cat, having only been recognised in 1999 by the Waratah State Cat Alliance. Australian Tiffanies are descended from the Burmilla, itself a fairly new breed (since 1981) developed from the mating of Burmese to Chinchilla. The Australian Tiffanie is essentially a semi-long haired type of Burmilla, which would normally have a short wiry coat.

Although initially regarded as an undesirable type, interested breeders soon began to pay more attention to these longer haired varieties. It became apparent to these breeders that these types would appear when first generation Burmillas were put together. In 1999 a group of breeders interested in further developing this variety submitted a breeding program to the cat council and the Australian Tiffanie became recognised as a new breed in New South Wales. Small breeding programs have since started in Victoria and Queensland, with registration available through New South Wales. There are approximately 50 cats within the breeding program with nine breeders in NSW, three in Victoria and two in Queensland.

Note, the name Tiffanie is spelt with an 'ie' ending not a 'y' as is seen in the famous US jewellery store, Tiffany & Co. This is to differentiate the breed from the long haired Burmese known as "Tiffany".

Appearance

The four most common colours in the Australian Tiffanie are black, blue, brown and chocolate. Lilac, the fifth colour, is seen less often. These colours are the same as the Burmilla.

So what features differentiate the Australian Tiffanie from the Burmilla? The most obvious difference is its semi-long haired coat. As well the Australian Tiffanie has three distinguishable coat patterns (the Burmilla has only two). All will have a white under coat with colour restricted to the ends of the hair. The coat patterns are:

• Tipped. The very tip of the hair is coloured. The coat will look white with slight colour.
• Shaded. The end of the hair is coloured. The coat will appear 'mantled', or dusted with colour.
• Smoke. Three quarters of the hair shaft is coloured. Smoke pattern can look solid until the hair is parted.Another striking difference between the two breeds are the eyes, lips and nose. All are outlined in a terracotta red while the eyes are emerald green. The Australian Tiffanie also has a broader head than the Burmilla, and a more compact body. It is a medium-sized cat with a silky, soft coat.

Temperament

Loving, friendly, sociable and well behaved sums up the breed. Breeders say these cats are not as obsessive as the Burmese or Siamese types, and rather than the demanding wail associated with these types, the Australian Tiffanie will greet you with a quiet meow. Australian Tiffanies have a medium activity level and are generally regarded to be less active than the Burmilla. They cope well with apartment living and solitary life but also enjoy the companionship of other animals and their owners.

Health, breeding and lifespan

As the emergence of these semi-long haired types is due to the expression of a recessive gene, Australian Tiffanies crossed amongst themselves will always produce similar, semi-long haired types. Because Australian Tiffanies are derived from a cross of two different breeds, they may possess good hybrid vigour. That is, these first generation cross animals are less likely to display any recessive genetic traits common to either of the foundation breeds, many of which may be deleterious. This could make the Australian Tiffanie a more robust, healthier animal than other pure breed types. However this robustness rapidly declines in future generations.

The kittens of some lines have displayed large umbilical hernias which have required surgery. However this is not a problem common to all Australian Tiffanies and, due to the relatively early stages of breed development, this issue can be addressed by breeders.

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is an hereditary kidney disease associated with Chinchilla, one of the foundation breeds. Breeders state however that prior to breeding, all Australian Tiffanies must test negative for PKD. Australian Tiffanie breeders claim that a strict breeding standard, with a focus on producing genetically healthy animals, is the main objective of the breed society.

The average lifespan is estimated to be that of Burmilla's that is around 17 years for a healthy cat.

Space and maintenance

Australian Tiffanies do not require a lot of space or exercise. Normal indoor activity is sufficient. In fact, they are most happy when indoors with their owners.

Maintenance is medium for a cat. Australian Tiffanies require a quick groom about three times per week. They have two seasonal moults per year, at the end of summer and winter.

B

-Balinese

The Balinese Cat is actually a long-haired Siamese cat.  In the 1930s and 40s cat breeders wanted to produce a long-haired Siamese by cross-breeding them with Angora Cats. After several generations of cross-breeding, cat breeders were able to produce the desired coat. The very first Balinese cats had long, flowing coats; these coats eventually shortened in length due to repeated cross-breeding with the Siamese. The personality of the Balinese can be described as intelligent and curious, although less vocal compared with its Siamese progenitors. Like the Siamese Cat, Balinese cats hate being left alone for long periods of time and can create mischief if left alone or bored.  If you are planning to choose a Balinese cat it is probably a good idea to get a pair together.

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-Bengal Cat

-Birman

Birman Cats - Outline

Birman Cats are beautiful semi-longhaired cats whose history is filled with mystery and legends. Although the exact origin of the breed is unknown, the cat probably comes from Burma. There, the Birman Cat was considered sacred and was bred as a companion pet for Kittah priests.

The Birman Cat is known to make a wonderful pet. It is sweet and active, yet quiet, with a soft-spoken voice. What attracts many people to Birman Cats is the fact that the breed tends to be people-oriented. It enjoys human company and shows true interest in everything its owner does. Affectionate and beautiful, the Birman Cat is the third popular feline breed in the United States.

Birman Cats do well with other pets and seem to be an ideal breed for people who like close association with little fluffy creatures. The breed displays many characteristics that are so valuable in cats. The Birman Cat's traits were the subject to perfection for many centuries. Even legends linked to the breed stress the fact that the breed made a perfect companion for people.

Birman Cats, also called Birmans for short, are large and stocky. They have relatively long silky hair that resembles that of the Persian Cat. However, Birman's hair is not so dense and does not mat. Birman Cats are usually light in color. The most popular color is that with a golden shade. The face, tail, and legs are usually darker in color. The breed has almost round eyes of bright blue. The breed was recognized in the United States in 1967. Nowadays, Birman Cats are the third most popular in the group of longhaired breeds.

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-Bombay

In 1958, a Kentucky (USA) breeder deliberately bred a black American shorthair and a sable-brown Burmese in an effort to creat a domestic cat that resembled the wild Panther. This novel combination successfully produced offspring that resembled the Black Leopard of India, The Bombay name, taken from the Indian city of Bombay (now Mumbai), honours the native country of the wild cousin. It always displays a thick, shiny, solid black coat; no other colors or patterns are permitted, The eyes shine in a coppery or golden shade. The Bombay is considered a quiet, watchful cat who loves affection. This can be said of any feline. But the Bombay is one who, when things are going her way, purrs loudly enough to be heard in the next room. Bombays enjoy the indoors perhaps more than the outdoors, and they are noted for not liking any intrusive noises.  This a well balanced, muscular cat with a deep black coat. Rounded and wide head with a short tapered muzzle. Round, wide-set, golden to copper colored eyes, and medium sized, broad and slightly rounded wide set ears. The coat texture is fine, short, satiny and tight to the body. Bombays require little grooming. Petting will keep the coat shiny and free of dead hair. A rubber brush can be used for excessive shedding. A nutritionally complete food will add gloss to the coat and fuel for the cat's natural energy. Instant lap cat, best describes the heat-seeking Bombay lifestyle. Both genders make excellent pets. While they will get along with other breeds, the Bombay usually wants to dominate other cats. A dog might make a good companion for a Bombay. These are smart and agile cats, they often retrieve and will seek out interaction with humans. Visitors' purses or packages are thoroughly inspected. Head bumpers and nose rubbers, they love nothing more than to be held. Some can be very talkative and they have a distinctive voice. Quiet, sensitive, reserved and intelligent, the Bombay does best in a quiet home, where it is affectionate to the whole family. _________________________________________________ - British Shorthair The British Shorthair, probably the oldest English breed of cat, traces its ancestry back to the domestic cat of Rome. This breed was first prized for its physical strength and hunting ability, but soon became equally recognized and valued for its calm demeanor, endurance and loyalty to man. The British Shorthair is a comparatively rare cat in the United States. Around 1980 it was recognized for championship competition by CFA stimulating much needed interest in the breed. Recognized world-wide, many fine “Brits” are still imported today from England, Ireland, New Zealand and Australia to help widen the gene pool for breeders in the United States. The British Shorthair is gaining in popularity every year as it is bred and exhibited by an increasing number of enthusiastic fanciers. Because of its easy-going nature and intelligence, it has become a favorite of animal trainers, for use in Hollywood films and television commercials. The British Shorthair has a short plush coat with a luxurious feel which is very easy to groom. A British Shorthair is always in quiet control of his or her environment, supervising everyone and everything that happens in the family. A larger sized cat that prefers to be on the ground, Brits are not known for acrobatics or speed. However, they are steadfast companions to the entire family and definitely look before they leap. When gracelessness is observed, the British Shorthair is duly embarrassed; quickly recovering with a “Cheshire Cat smile.” Although first known as the British Blue, due to the breed’s original color, its native country incorporated a wide variety of colors under the term British Shorthair in the 1950’s. CFA also now recognizes the British Shorthair in many different colors and patterns. _________________________________________

-Burmese

Other Names: Zibeline (That's the French term)

The Burmese is a foreign shorthair, categorised by color into brown (or seal), blue, chocolate, lilac, red, cream and tortoise shell. They have yellow eyes and a very short satiny coat. They are heavier than they look, as they are very muscular. By the standards of pedigreed cats they are long-lived, many reaching 16 to 18 years.

Burmese have very strong voices and are very affectionate, forming a strong bond with their owners. Other characteristics include an inclination to climb curtains and sit on doors. They are easily trained to use a scratching post to help conserve the owner's furniture and carpets. Burmese cats are very friendly and curious even towards complete strangers. They are athletic, brave and humorous, and may show remarkable ingenuity, particularly in finding warm places. Burmese cats tend to follow their owners everywhere, even to the point where they may become a bit disturbing.

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-Burmilla

Overall Appearance - Breeders have worked to maintain the Burrmese body type and the tipped coat of the chinchilla progenitor. Like the Burmese, Burmillas are medium-size cats with compact, muscular bodies and round faces with short muzzles. The Burmilla has a soft, short, close-lying, light-colored coat with hairs tipped with a contrasting color. Many colors are recognized.

Personality - Similar in temperament to Burmese, Burmiillas are sociable, playful, and affectionate. Like their Burmese cousins, they appreciate cuddling and companionship and do well with other animals and children.

Breed Fact - Burmillas are the happy result of an accidental breeding between a chinchilla Persian named Sanquist and a lilac Burmese named Faberge. Their four kittens, born in 1981, became the foundation stock of a new breed.

C

-Calico  

*calico males can be worth as much as $300 because they are so rare because most calicos are female. The probability of getting a male calico is 1-500. the reason is: For the gender chromosomes, there is a battle for power. This is especially true for the X chromosome. If two X chromosomes are present, which determines female gender, one X chromosome will become inactivated at some point in fetal development. When this happens, all the cells descended from the activated X chromosome will have the same characteristics, including coat color.

In calicos, if the X-chromosome that is left functioning carries the orange gene, then all the cells descended from it will result in an orange color. The same is true if the functioning X chromosome has the black gene. If both X-chromosomes carry the same color gene, then the calico pattern will not appear.

Since X chromosomes inactivate at various times in each individual cat, color patches vary.

The story is different for male cats. Males have only one X chromosome, and it is never inactivated. Whatever color gene is present on this X chromosome will determine the color of the cat. Males can be calico or tortoiseshell only if they are born with 2 X-chromosomes and a Y (XXY), allowing one X to be inactivated. This genetic defect (XXY) is very rare. 

Calicos are mostly black, orange, and white

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-California Spangled

Overall Appearance - Spangles are large, well-muscled cats with long bodies and a "wild," low-slung gait. They have prominent cheekbones and pale, well-developed whisker pads. The forehead is slightly rounded, the eyes are almond-shaped, and the ears are rounded at the tips and set high on the head. The tail is dark-tipped and blunt. The Spangle's spotted tabby coat is shorthaired, with slightly longer fur on the tail and underbelly

Personality - A recently developed breed similar in cooncept to the Ocicat, the Spangled Cat is a spotted, wild-looking creature. But this is a purely domestic breed, not a hybrid between a wildcat species and a domestic variety. Sweet-natured, intelligent, and energetic, Spangles enjoy companionship but are not demanding of their owners' attention

Breed Fact - California Spangled Cats were developed in the 1980s by a California breeder who was determined to create a domestic breed to mimic endangered spotted wildcats. A complex breeding program including an Abyssinian-domestic shorthair cross, a British Shorthair, an American Shorthair, a feral cat from Cairo, a spotted Manx, and a Siamese produced the anticipated results after eleven generations.

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-Chantilly/Tiffany Cat

Other Names: Tiffanie, Asian Longhair, Asian Semi-Longhair

History: In late 1989, two Canadian breeders, a Siamese/Oriental breeder, J. De Regt (Catkins/Millgrove) and Tiffany breeders, G & T Oraas (Purrfecta/Opurrtune) collaborated efforts to research what had been published as the breed's British origin .Finding no evidence supporting the theory of a Burmese ancestry, T.I.C.A. breeders requested separate status from the Burmese breed section in the early 90's. Unfortunately there was another development in Britain accepted as "Tiffanie" which resulted in renaming by some associations. The "Tiffany" name Americans authored was selected to reflect vintage elegance and good taste after a theater from which it originated. Canadian breeders retained that objective with the new name "Chantilly".

Type and characteristics

-Chartreux

Other Names: Italian Curtosino

The Chartreux is an old natural breed which originated in France. An old Legend surrounds the origins of the Chartreux history and it is said to have been raised as a companion by the Carthusian monks. What is more likely is that because of the woolly character of their fur, Chartreux were given the same name as a well known Spanish wool of the early 18th century.

Whatever its origins, the presence of this natural breed of cat was noted in documents as early as the 16th century, and was acknowledged for unique coat texture and color. Today the handsome Chartreux is known as the French cat because of its native land, France.

The Chartreux is a large, sturdy, muscular, statuesque cat with a husky, robust body structure neither cobby nor classic. Male Chartreux in particular achieve a hefty bone and substance with females structured on a smaller, finer scale. The breed is slow maturing with males reaching full size between 12-16 lbs or more in four to five years. . Female Chartreux take about three years to reach their full size of 7-10 lbs.

The Chartreux is also known for its beautiful grey-blue color, woolly double coat, quiet voice, and smiling expression. The dense, woolly double coat requires very little grooming and is as soft and lush as shearling especially thick on the adult male. Although it is a massive cat, the Chartreux is a very quiet cat having a tiny voice and sweet smiling expression. Many Chartreux are completely mute; they purr, but cannot meow. Others have a quiet, high pitched meow or chirp although infrequently.

Chartreux are attentive, gentle, and adaptable cats who enjoy being nearby their favorite people. They are extraordinarily dedicated to family life and are very dog-like in devotion and behaviour. They are tolerant and gentle with strangers, small children, and other animals. Highly intelligent, the Chartreux quickly learn its name and comes on call. These cats are also extremely agile for their size and being natural hunters love to play games. Owners of the breed enjoy the supportive, cheerful presence of the handsome, blue Chartreux.

The Chartreux is always blue-grey in color ranging from ash to slate. The beautiful blue coat is complemented by large eyes that are copper to gold with deep, brilliant orange as the preferred eye color.

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 -Chausie

With long legs and a lean, powerful body, the Chausie [pronounced 'chow'-see'] is a highly active and athletic cat; one which manages to keep busy in all manner of mischief. Chausies are almost dog-like in their eagerness for nonstop play and their deep devotion to their owners.

History: The Chausie (also known as the Jungle Cat) was found in ancient Egypt and was accorded sacred status in the time of the Pharaohs, perhaps for their role in helping to keep rats from infesting grain supplies.  Some Jungle Cats were trained by Egyptian royalty to hunt wild water fowl. Others were entombed with the Pharaohs to be their companions in the afterlife.  The name 'Chausie' was derived from the Latin name for the breed's wild ancestor, the Jungle Cat, which is felis chaus. The objective of Chausie breeders is to develop a cat that retains the appearance and superior intelligence of the Jungle Cat, but has a fully domestic temperament. The Jungle Cat is a distinct species and one of the largest among the smaller wild cats. 
 

Chausies were and are a breeding between a Jungle Cat and a domestic shorthaired cat. Early Jungle Cat hybrids were bred to offer those interested in exotic cats a more reasonable alternative to the often ill-fated attempts to make a pet out of a wild animal.Description  The Chausie has a long, graceful and slender body with long legs that give this cat it's amazing jumping ability.  The Chausie has a long neck and large ears that contribute to its wild, exotic look. Males can weigh up to 30 pounds and females up to 22 pounds.  Their silky, shiny coats come in a wide range of shades including golden, black, silver-tipped and leopard spotted. (The last two are quite rare).

Characteristics and Temperament:  The Chausie personality should be friendly, outgoing, non-threatening, active, alert, responsive, and affectionate. Chausies are very playful, intelligent and inquisitive. They make excellent companions and wonderful family pets.

Special Requirements

Although the Chausie is a highly domesticated breed they still maintain the grace, movements and speed that has evolved in them over centuries of natural selection.  The chausie is extremely intelligent, active and loyal. They need a lot of attention and objects (toys, etc.) to keep their very active minds busy especially during the kitten phase of their life.  Owning a chausie is not for everyone and should be considered carefully. They are not lap cats and would rather be playing and exploring rather than laying around. Depending on the breeder and cats used in breeding, chausies can get quite large.

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-Chinchilla Persian

The Chinchilla is classed as a "silver" cat. Chinchillas of today have a quiet, gentle nature and would suitable for anyone with the exception of small children, the same applies to all Persians . They will need grooming daily in the cooler months or less frequently when not in full coat. Just a few minutes is all it takes. This could be done while you are watching TV. Of course the exotics (lazy mans Persian) need hardly any grooming at all which makes them a perfect choice for the busy, working person who still wishes to have a cat with the beauty of the chinchilla.

The Chinchilla undercoat should be pure white, the coat on the back, legs, flanks, head, ears and tail being tipped with black, this tipping evenly distributed giving the characteristic sparkling appearance. The face and legs may be very slightly shaded with the tipping but the chin , ear tufts, stomach and chest must be pure white. Any cream or brown tinge or tabby markings is considered a fault. Ideally the hocks should be unblemished.

Eye color:
Emerald or blue/green.

Nose Leather:
Brick red, outlined with penciling of black.

Pads:
Black

Chinchilla Personality

Chinchillas are generally very placid, quiet cats, happy to lie around the home being decorative. They are affectionate, enjoy attention and can become quite attached to their owners.

Chinchillas are ideally suited to flats or houses as many prefer to spend much of their day inside. The long white coat does shed a lot of hair which will become worse when the winter coat is dropping. While daily brushing will reduce the amount of hair shed, it will still cover clothes and furniture.

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-Colorpoint Shorthair

Colorpoint Shorthairs are the first cousins of the Siamese. This breed is distinguished by its elegance in sixteen different "point" colors beyond the four Siamese colors. Half-siblings to the Siamese by virtue of their foundation and continuing breeding with the Siamese, the Colorpoint Shorthair is a hybrid breed of the Siamese. Colorpoints, circa 1947-48, are a far cry from their angular, leggy descendants of today. Today's Colorpoints are the same structural standard of the Siamese, with the only difference being their unique point colors.

In the early breedings, breeders concentrated on cats with red or cream restricted to the points (face, legs, ears, tails and genitals). Early hybridizations with domestic shorthairs, and refinement by concentrating the Siamese gene with the red gene, produced the first of the colors to eventually be called Colorpoint Shorthairs. To distinguish the new breed from the Siamese, CFA breeders adopted the name Colorpoint Shorthair for registration purposes, and through a painstaking process won recognition as a breed in 1964. The early cats who helped become the new breed were given the first color class of the Colorpoints, called the solid points, which are the red and cream points.

As time progressed and the early hybrids gained popularity, the tabby versions of the Siamese were introduced into the Colorpoint Shorthair programs in the four Siamese colors. In CFA, these tabby pointed cats are called lynx points and are exhibited in their own "lynx point class" as seal-lynx points, chocolatelynx points, blue-lynx points, lilac-lynx points, red-lynx points and cream-lynx points.

The tortie, or parti-colors, are an interesting phenomenon of the hybridization process of the red gene. Shortened to "tortie or cream points," this color class of the Colorpoint Shorthairs are exhibited as the parti-colors. They are memorable representatives of the breed because of their loving yet independent attitudes. The parti-colors are a "by product" of the red gene and come in the four Siamese colors with random mottling or "blotching" of red and/or cream with the basic Siamese color. They often also have what is called a "blaze," a symmetrical split of the red and/or cream on one side of the face mask and the Siamese color, such as seal, on the other half. Indeed, this is a very striking appearance. Because the red color gene is sex linked, tortie or cream parti-color points only come in females. Color descriptions start with the primary Siamese color and add the mottling of red or cream. Thus we have the seal-tortie points, chocolate-tortie points, blue-cream points and lilac-cream points. When bred to a lynx parent, the last four of the sixteen colors are the tabby, or lynx, versions of the parti-color points, i.e. the seal-tortie lynx point, chocolate-tortie lynx point, blue-cream lynx point and lilac-cream lynx point.

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-Colorpoint Longhair

Other Names: Himalayan

The longhaired Himalayan resembles the Persian, with a large, short, heavy body that is low to the ground. Pampered pet or successful show cat, the Himalayan is one of today's most popular Persian colors with its distinctive "pointed" coat pattern and pretty blue eyes. The only difference from a persian and a himalayan is that a himalayan is a persain crossed with a siamese.

Himalayans were developed by breeding Persians to Siamese to combine the Siamese point coloring with Persian type. Offspring were bred back to Persians to keep the Persian look while maintaining the color points. The name comes from the color pattern found on rabbits and goats originating in the Himalayan Mountains of Asia.

The existence of the Himalayan is largely attributed to the British Cat Fancy with the world's first official "Colorpoint Long Hair" b

In appearance like other varieties of Persian, this is a breed recognised by its large chunky build with lots of short features. Himalayans have short, well-rounded cobby bodies and short, thick legs with a short, bushy tail. They also have a short, strong neck supporting a very large and round head. All Himalayans have deep vivid blue eyes.

Like the Persian, the Himalayan is also a longhaired cat with a long, flowing coat sometimes measuring six to seven inches long. The breed is said to be easier to groom than its Persian cousins. With a topcoat inclined to silkiness, and an undercoat somewhat not as woolly, the Himalayan coat is much less prone to matting. Nevertheless like all longhairs, the Himalayan requires daily grooming to help rid the coat of dead hair and ensure it is kept tangle free. A bristle brush and a wide-toothed comb are part of the essential grooming kit, with a fine toothed comb for the grooming of ear tufts and facial fur. Bathing with a tearless shampoo is essential for the show cat to keep the coat in flowing show condition.

In personality, the Himalayan is a friendly, affectionate and mischievous cat. Easy going, gentle and friendly with humans and other pet animals, a Himalayan makes an adaptable pet. They are extremely playful cats always in the middle of all their human's activities, and express themselves with a wonderful melodious voice. Their quiet disposition, sweet pansy-faced expression and appealing blue eyes have make the Himalayan one of the most beloved of all pedigree cats. Himalayan owners find the breed irresistible and usually have more than one Himmie in their household.

The Himalayan is found in a variety of point colors including blue, lilac, chocolate, seal, red and cream, as well as tortie and lynx versions of these colors. Point color is restricted to the extremities (face, ears, legs and tail), with a light body of various shades of usually white to fawn. Himalayan eyes are expressive, large, bold and round always found a vivid, deep blue.eing approved by Britain's Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) in 1955. An Englishman, Mr Brian Stirling-Webb, had developed the breed at this time.

Mr Stirling -Webb began by crossing pure Siamese with pure longhairs to produce a series of short-haired, black and blue self-coloured "hybrids". Hybrid was then mated with hybrid and from these litters there came a few special kittens. They had Siamese patterned points, long fur and blue eyes. Nothing like it had ever been achieved before. There was no other variety of longhaired or semi-longhaired cat with this colouring at this time. These were the original Himalayan or "Colorpoints" the term used in the United Kingdom.

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-Cornish Rex

Another distinctive feature of the Cornish Rex is a short, remarkably soft and silky coat characterized by a relatively dense, tight, washboard wave, lying close to the body and extending from the top of the head across the back, sides, hips and tail. The Cornish Rex coat is incredibly soft to touch prompting comparisons to crushed velvet, karakul lamb, rabbit fur or silk. The short coat is easy to groom with hand grooming normally sufficient to keep their coats in good condition.

By nature, the Cornish Rex is extremely affectionate, friendly, alert and people-oriented. They are also active cats whose kitten-like antics last for their lifetime. Cornish Rex are also known for their self-confidence, their desire to interact with people, and their agility. They are perfect pets for the owner who wants active cats to participate in family life. Aristocratic in appearance, they are charming, acutely intelligent, very affectionate and gentle while full of mischief. Cornish Rex owners appreciate the breed's jolly personality and are extremely devoted to the active, amazing, agile and interactive Cornish Rex.

The Cornish Rex is also a good potential choice for people who are allergic to cats. While no cat can be truly hypoallergenic, many people with allergies to cats discover they can live happily with a Cornish Rex.

The Cornish Rex coat comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including solids, bicolor, smokes, shadeds and tabbies. Eyes are medium to large in size, oval in shape, a full eye's width apart and slant slightly upward. Eye colour is clear and intense and appropriate to the coat colour for the breed standard including blue, gold, green, hazel and odd eye.

D

-Devon Rex

Other Names: Butterfly Rex

In 1959, a Miss Cox of Devonshire England found that a stray cat in her care had given birth to a rather odd looking curly-haired kitten, the sire thought to be a curly-haired tomcat seen in the area. Delighted with the kitten's elfin features and wavy curls, she named him Kirlee -- the founding father of the unique and wonderful breed of cats known today as the Devon Rex. Today's Devon Rex maintain a look true to their founder -- huge ears, set low on the sides of the head frame, a pixie-like face with large, inquisitive eyes and a short slightly upturned nose. A coat of loose waves and curls covers a strong and supple body in a compact, refined form. These unusual features decorate a breed whose personality, intelligence, friendliness and inquisitive behavior are as unique as the package it comes in.

Nicely "mid-sized" cats, adult Devons average six to nine pounds, with males heavier than females. While an even, full coat of loose curls is ideal for the show ring, the Devon coat varies greatly between individuals, ranging from an almost shaggy mop of loose curls in some to a thin suede-like coat in others that may leave some areas nearly bare. The coat may vary over the life of the cat, with some kittens dropping much of their coat ("molting") during their development, and some adult coats changing seasonally. Even though their body temperature is the same as other cats, many Devons are surprisingly warm to the touch due to a lighter, less insulating coat. Not surprisingly, Devons tend to be "heat seekers," and are often found lounging on televisions, computer monitors and heater vents. On chilly nights, Devons make superb bed warmers, often sneaking under the covers to stay warm and share body heat with their favorite people.

The Devon personality has been aptly described as a cross between a cat and a monkey. Devons are highly active, playful and involved with everything. Powerful jumpers, very few spots large enough to hold them will not be explored and occupied. Devons have been found climbing brick fireplaces and perching on top of doors. Although little escapes a Devon's interest, Devons are very people-oriented. Most Devons invite themselves along for every activity -- preferably perched on a shoulder, lap, or wherever they can be closest to their people. They are accomplished food mooches, with "anything they aren't supposed to be into" only slightly less appealing than "anything you are eating." Many a bag of snack food left unattended for an eye blink has suddenly sprouted two legs and a tail, with a Devon contentedly grazing inside.

Devons are low maintenance, wash-and-wear companions. Their large ears occasionally require cleaning, but otherwise a quick shampoo and towel dry (or even a wipedown with a damp cloth) and a nail-trim is all the grooming most Devons require. Despite popular myth, Devons do shed (as does anything with hair), although their unique coat may make the shed hair less obtrusive than that of many cats. Devons have also gained a dubious reputation as being "hypo-allergenic," but this varies according to an individual's personal allergies. While some people with animal allergies tolerate Devons very well, anyone with allergy issues should arrange to handle a Devon before considering acquiring one. Colors: a wide array of colors in the solid, shaded, smoke, tabby, bi-color, parti-color and pointed patterns.

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-Don Sphynx

The Don Sphynx is a Russian breed of hairless cats. These cats have very much in common with Sphynx cats originating in Canada, but their gene pool is different. The first hairless cat, which became the primogenitor of all Don Sphynxs, was found in Rostov-na-Donu, Russia in 1987. Don is one of Russian major rivers, which gave the name to Rostov-na-Donu city and later to its native cat breed.
When a Russian breeder Elena Kovaleva brought home homeless bald female cat she decide that it was sick and tried to cure it from the supposed disease that caused loss of hair. But it was discovered soon that the absence of hair was not the result of disease but a natural mutation. The cat was named Varvara and later gave birth to hairless kittens. They and other aboriginal cats became a base of the new breed which was named Don Sphynx. The other name of the breed is Russian hairless. The breed was recognized by WCF in 1997.

Temperament and Personality:

Don Sphynxs are highly intelligent and loyal to the owner. They say about Sphynxs, "They are not humans beings yet but they are not already cats." They are smart, waggish, very lively and behave themselves rather like children not like cats.

Size and Appearance:

The Don Sphynx has a muscular medium sized body. All color are allowed by the breed standard. The eyes are almond-shaped. The ears are big. The Don Sphynx's paws are of distinctive shape. They have elongated fingers with webs and are able to seize things with fingers.

Care:

Don Sphynxs are hairless so they don't need combing and don't shed, free from musk odor. They are inclined to sweat so need daily wiping with cloths as well as regular bathing. Due to high body temperature Sphynxs need more food than other breeds. The high body temperature also help Sphynxs to resist infections. Adult Sphynxs possess high immunity to most desease. But it is important to keep them away from draughty places.

E

-Egyptian Mau

The Egyptian Mau is a fascinating cat, not only because of its past history, but because of its delightful personality and striking appearance.

The Mau (mau is the Egyptian word for cat) has been clearly identified in the artwork of the ancient Egyptians, leaving no question in the minds of many experts that the Egyptian Mau is indeed the cat domesticated from a spotted subspecies of the African Wild Cat by this unique culture. To gaze upon this beautiful and engaging creature is an opportunity to view a living relic.

The role of the Mau in the religion, mythology, and everyday life of the Egyptian conveys the degree of affection and respect in which these cats were held. They were worshipped as deities, cherished as pets, protected by laws, and mummified and mourned upon their death.

The Egyptian Mau has the distinction of being the only natural spotted breed of domestic cat. An extremely intelligent animal, the Mau places a great importance on family, both human and their own, and is fiercely loyal in his devotion to them. They are moderately active and often express their happiness by chortling in a soft melodious voice and wiggling their tails at great speed while treading with their forepaws.

With an elegant body that is randomly spotted, banded legs and tail, expressive gooseberry green eyes, distinctive mascara lines, a worried expression on the face, and a graceful cheetah-like stride, it is no wonder that the Mau attracts such a tremendous amount of attention at cat shows.

The Egyptian Mau comes in three colors that can be shown in championship classes: Silver, Bronze, and Smoke. Also accepted for registration purposes, but not for showing, are the solid Black and the dilute versions of the "primary" colors: Blue Silver, Blue spotted (dilute bronze), Blue Smoke and the solid Blue. Although the black and the dilute Maus are not eligible for showing, they make excellent pets like all other Maus.

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-Exotic Shorthair

Other Names: Exotic

 As spectators at the show walk by the cage they look quizzically at the cat and say "It looks like a Persian but it has short hair. The sign says Exotic. Exotic what?!"

With today’s busy lifestyles the cat has become a popular pet. Cats are best kept indoors and do well in an apartment or a house. The popularity of the Persian has been evident for many years. However, Persians require daily grooming to maintain their beautiful coat. For busy people who like the look of a Persian but don’t have time for the daily grooming demands, the Exotics are the best kept secret of the cat fancy. They are bred to meet the Persian standard in every way with one very special exception: the coat has a thick, dense, plush, short coat. The Exotic coat is unique to the breed and gives them a soft, rounded, teddy bear look. Their wonderful coat requires much less combing than a Persian’s and will not mat or tangle. Because of the ease of grooming for this special breed, Exotics are sometimes affectionately referred to as the lazy man’s Persian.

What is it like living with an Exotic? Are they like Persians, or do they resemble their shorthaired ancestors? Over the years, as the type and coat have changed, so has the personality of the Exotic. As the Exotic’s line of Persian ancestors became longer and longer, their temperament has become more and more Persian like. Indeed, there is no longer much difference in the temperament of the two breeds. Exotics have a quiet, endearing nature. Their voices are seldom heard. The Exotic is an ideal breed that produces a quiet, sweet, peaceful and loyal companion. They are easy going and not much seems to disturb them. In general, they are extremely affectionate. They quietly beg for your attention by just sitting in front of you with an irresistible look focused on your eyes. They will jump in your lap to curl up for a nap or push their wet nose right into your face. Some like to sit on your shoulder and hug you when you pet them. They may or may not sleep with you as some prefer cooler places like the bricks on the hearth or the tiled floor. An Exotic is very comfortable to have in your home. They give you privacy and are not constantly demanding attention. They will, however, quietly follow you from room to room just to be nearby. They are just as playful and fun loving as other breeds. They will jump until exhausted trying to catch a toy on a stick, or they will sit and carefully study how to get the toy down from the top of the bookcase where it was placed when you stopped playing with them.

When people call for a pet kitten, they almost always ask for a female, thinking that a girl will be sweeter and more loving. Many also believe that males will be more aggressive and prone to spray. However, neither assumption is correct. Male Exotics are, in general, more affectionate than females. Females can be somewhat more aloof. They always seem to have more important things to do than cuddle with their owner. Exotics mature later than most other breeds, and since all pets should be neutered and spayed at an early age, problems related to spraying and other adult urges need never be a concern. Exotic kittens exhibit the same level of activity as do Persian kittens. Some breeders say that the Exotic kittens do everything first: open their eyes, climb out of the box, start eating, etc. Adult Exotics enjoy simple pleasures, like watching water drip from a faucet or chasing paper balls around the house.

The easy going nature of the Exotic allows it to fit into your home at any age. Exotics stay playful as adults and bring pleasure for many years. All things considered, the Exotic is a wonderful addition to any family. Adorable to look at, peaceful and clean, what more could you ask for the perfect pet. The Exotic is really the "best of two worlds."

F

-Foldex

-Foreign White

The Foreign White should be a beautifully balanced animal with head, ears and neck carried on a long svelte body, supported on fine legs and feet, with a tail in proportion. The head and profile should be wedge-shaped, neither round nor pointed. The eyes a clear brilliant blue. Expression alert and intelligent.

Head: Long and well proportioned, carried upon an elegant neck, with width between the ears, narrowing in straight lines to a fine muzzle, with straight profile, strong chin and level bite.

Ears: Large and pricked set so as to follow the lines of the wedge.

Eyes: Oriental in shape and slanting, clear brilliant blue, the deeper the better.

Body: Long and slender, the rump carried higher than the shoulders. Well muscled and elegant.

Legs: Long and proportionately slender, paws neat and oval.

Tail: Long and tapering, whip-like, without kink.

Coat: Pure white, short and close-lying.

Nose Leather, Eye Rims & Paw Pads: Pink.
Note: "Freckles" may appear on nose, pads, lips and eye rims. Slight freckling in a mature cat should not be penalized.

G

-German Rex

Breed Description:

Head: Rounded, very broad between the ears. Well-developed cheeks. Nose with a slight break at the base. Massive, strong chin. Curly whiskers, shorter than usual.

Eyes: Medium-sized, well-spaced, and wide open. The color must be uniform and luminous, and must correspond to that of the coat.

Body: Medium-sized, solid, muscular, but not massive or heavy. Rounded, powerful chest. The back is straight from the shoulders to the croup.

Paw: Slender, moderately long. Well-developed, slightly oval paws with a rounded shape.

Tail: Moderately long, thick at the base and tapering to a rounded tip. Thick fur.

Coat: Short, velvety, soft, very silky. Must be wavy or curly. Curly over the entire body, longer than that of the Cornish Rex, more spiky. No guard hairs. Colors: all are recognized, except chocolate, lilac, and colorpoint.

Fault: Head too long, too pointed. Small ears. Short, hairless tail. Coat shaggy, not wavy enough, with hairless patches.

History: Wearing a full lambswool coat The German Rex is the oldest known breed of curly-coated cat. It first appeared in 1946 in the home of Dr. Scheuer-Karpin but was actually developed from a stray adopted by breeders in 1951. Curly-coated kittens were obtained through crosses with the Cornish Rex. This proved that the two breeds have the same gene responsible for the mutation. Both the F.I.Fe. and the S.C.F.F. recognize the German Rex. However, the C.F.A. does not distinguish it from the Cornish Rex and Devon Rex. The German Rex is very rare

Behavior: German Rexes are active but patient cats. They are even-tempered, friendly toward other cats, and very affectionate toward their owner. They are easy to groom.

H

-Havana Brown

Other Names: Berkshire Brown

What makes a Havana Brown unique? The first thing an admirer notices is the cat's glistening mahogany-toned brown coat. Their other incomparable feature is the distinctive head that is slightly longer than it is wide. When viewed in profile, the prominent, broad nose has a definite stop at the eyes. A pronounced whisker break combined with the strong square chin forms a somewhat rounded muzzle, which appears to be a protrusion of the head. When viewed from above, the pronounced break in the bone structure behind each whisker pad is easily seen in good specimens and resembles an hour glass shape. If you are looking for a people-oriented cat that is more dog like than cat like, the Havana Brown may be for you. This is a highly intelligent breed of cat that easily learns its name, the word "No," and may be halter and leash trained just to name a few accomplishments. Certainly if you are looking for a brown cat with a nose, then the Havana Brown fits that bill! These are cats that can learn to ride in your car, motor home or fly in the airplane cabin with you when necessary. Some have such a loud purr they simply vibrate!

Because of these attributes, they make wonderful companion animals whether you plan to exhibit and show or simply as a very best friend in your home. It is not unusual for a Havana Brown to touch you with a paw to get your attention or to run, then flop on the floor right in your path for a tummy rub. This is also an adaptable breed, a tribute to its intelligence. Adult Havana Browns following show careers often go to new approved homes without missing a beat as long as the human gives the attention and affection this cat demands. Because of the adaptability of this breed, the Havana Brown will adjust to your home/work schedule, but, as with any companion animal, it should never be left alone for long periods of time.

Several theories exist as to how the breed got its name. Some historians insist it was named after the rabbit of the same color; however, most Havana Brown fans choose to believe that the breed got its name because it was the color of a fine Havana cigar. The medium sized eyes of the Havana Brown are green in color, oval in shape, expressive, and positioned lower on the head than those of most other breeds. This gives the appearance of a cat looking down its nose. The resulting high forehead accentuates large, round-tipped ears, which are tilted slightly forward, lending an alert appearance.

Picking up a Havana Brown for the first time can be a surprising experience, as this lithe-looking cat actually weighs more than it appears. Its medium-sized body must be firm and muscular, exhibiting a sense of power, yet also showing definite elegance and gracefulness. Males tend to be larger than their female counterparts, usually weighing around eight to ten pounds, while the females average six to eight. Kittens are born brown, all brown. Whiskers must be brown to complement the coat color but with age they turn snow white.

Brown cats have been known for centuries. Their origins were probably from South East Asia as a branch of the Royal Cats of Siam. They first arrived in Britain in the 19th century along with the importation of the Siamese. They were described as "Siamese with coats of burnished chestnut with green-blue eyes." The self-brown Siamese, sometimes called Swiss Mountain Cat, lost favor and the breed was abandoned after the 1920s when the Siamese Cat Club of Britain issued a statement, "The club much regrets it is unable to encourage the breeding of any but blue-eyed Siamese." Roofspringer Mahogany Quinn was bred to Laurentide Brown Pilgrim of Norwood, also an import, and produced the very first Havana Brown reputedly to achieve the status of Grand Champion in CFA, Quinn's Brown Satin of Sidlo. All of the Havana Browns in North America today can trace their heritage back to this cat. This is the perfect cat for the person who wants a sociable, affectionate and intelligent feline friend. A cat as sweet in appearance and color as ... chocolate.

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-Honeybear

-Japanese Bobtail

From written records it seems certain that the domestic cat first arrived in Japan from China or Korea at least one thousand years ago. The Japanese Bobtail breed has certainly existed in Japan for many centuries.

Japanese Bobtails are strong and healthy cats. They usually have litters of three to four kittens that are extremely large for newborns. Compared to other breeds, they are active earlier, walk earlier and start getting into trouble earlier. This breed has a low kitten mortality rate and high disease resistance. Kittens are never born tailless, nor are they born with full tails. They are active, intelligent, talkative cats. Their soft voices are capable of nearly a whole scale of tones; some people say they sing. Since they adore human companionship they almost always speak when spoken to.

They like to carry things in their mouths, and most enjoy a good game of fetch. Masters of the pounce, these cats love to ride on shoulders. They are good travelers. They don’t panic at shows or strange hotel rooms, they adjust to dogs and other animals, and are especially good with children.

The Japanese Bobtail is a natural breed and does indeed come from Japan; all CFA registered cats can be traced back to the original imports. Any color except the Siamese pattern or Abyssinian type agouti is permitted, the most popular colors are the mi-ke and those colors that can be used to create it: white, black, red, black and white, red and white, and tortoiseshell. Vividly contrasting colors and bold dramatic markings are preferred on the bi-colors.

The tail is unique not only to the breed, but to each individual cat. Like our finger prints, no two tails are ever alike. The tail must be clearly visible and is composed of one or more curves, angles, or kinks or any combination thereof. The furthest extension of the tail bone from the body should be no longer than three inches. The direction in which the tail is carried is not important. The tail may be flexible or rigid and should be of a size and shape that harmonizes with the rest of the cat. The genetic factor which created the Japanese Bobtail is completely different from the Manx, a naturally tailless cat. Unlike the Manx, it is due to recessive genes and breeds true. The two breeds are not related in any way. Not only are their tails different, but the body types are completely opposite.

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-Javanese

Color - Ranges from cream, red, lynx points, and parti-color points.

Eyes - Deep vivid blue

Personality - The Javanese is a breed for folks who waant a little spice in their lives. Javanese are a study of contradictions - elegant refinement, sometimes fragile in appearance in reality hard and muscular with surprising strength. Highly intelligent, they become familiar with their human's routine. They will "talk", gently reminding when you are late with meals or play time, joyously greeting you whenever you have been away. As a rule, the Javanese voice is softer and gentler than the Siamese. They use their paws like little hands to open cabinets and drawers in search of a favorite toy they saw you hide.

Breed Fact - Tortie points are the Javanese version of a dizzy blond or crazy redhead acting almost as if, between the splashes of red and cream mixed with the background color, they can't make up their minds how they are supposed to behave. They "speak" their minds freely and entertain you with their antics. If Lucille Ball was ever reincarnated as a cat, she would definitely be a tortie!

K

-Kurilian Bobtail Longhair and Shorthair

Kurilian Bobtail is a cat breed which is practically not known in the Central and Western Europe. This is a fact in spite the Kurilian Bobtail has been recorded on the WCF list of registered breeds since 1995 and on the FIFE list since 2004. The original WCF standard was redeveloped in 2001. Now it is identical with the FIFE standard.

Kurilian Bobtail is known for its excellent health and very balanced character. His wild appearance is not reflected in his temperament at all. He is un-aggressive, curious, sociable towards man and other animals as well. He requests stroking and caressing.

Kurilian Bobtail is very attentive and intelligent. He is quick in understanding commands but, as any right cat, he obeys only if he considers them to be in his favor.

Kurilian Bobtail loves water. He is a passionate hunter and fischer. He is ready to go into washbasin full of water in order to satisfy his passion for water.

Kurilian Bobtail has a tail which is formed by one or more angles or curves or any combination of them. A visible length of the tail is between three to eight centimeters. Size and shape of the tail should be in harmony with an overall appearance of the cat.

Origin of Kurilian Bobtail:

Information about cats with short tails living in the easternmost outpost of Russia, Sachalin and Kurilian islands had been known since a long time ago. Nonetheless, it took a lot of time to "discover" them.

In the 1980s century an organized breeding of cats was launched in Russia. People coming back from business trips to the Far East brought the first Kurilian Bobtails to Europe. Some of them were considered to be Japanese Bobtails. Some of them were difficult to identify because of their body and skin structure which were different from Japanese Bobtails.

Currently, the Kurilian Bobtails differ from the original wild cat breed by his bigger size. A weight of the wild tomcat use to be between 3.5 to 4 kg and of the female cat between 2 to 2.5 kg. A weight of breeders` cats in the 2nd to 3rd generations is between 5 to 6 kg for tomcats and 3 to 4 kg for female cats. There are both short-hair (KBS) and long-hair (KBL) varieties.

According to the data from the year 2002 there are around 40 breeders` stations in Russia which are focused on breeding of Kurilian Bobtails appropriate for expert, i.e. 3 known generations of ancestors. These breeders are mainly WCF members. Except Russia the breeders` stations for Kurilian Bobtails are located in Ukraine, Estonia, Finland and Lithuania. However, in these countries they are very rare. Since 2005 these wonderful cats have been bred in the Czech Republic as well. Our tomcat`s name is Charcoal Cather Barrayar (at home we call him Shahter) and our female cat is Jasenka Eridan.

L

-LaPerm

Other Names: Alpaca Cat

The LaPerm first came into being through a natural, spontaneous mutation in 1982 on the farm of Linda Koehl in The Dalles, Oregon, USA, from a gray tabby barn cat named Speedy. This breed is characterized by its curly coat and comes with either long or short hair. The kittens can be born with any one of three coat types: straight haired, curly coated, or bald. If the coat and whiskers are curly or the kitten is bald with curly whiskers, it will then be curly coated as an adult. The kittens born with straight hair will generally maintain that straight coat throughout life.

In order to show her new breed of cat, Linda had to come up with a name for her genetically-unique felines. She came up with "LaPerm", which means wavy or rippled in several languages. And so, a new breed was born.

After birth the kittens can go through several stages of coat development. Many will stay as they were when born but often they will drop their coats either entirely or in part. Such "molting" generally produces a denser coat when it comes back in. Occasionally one will drop the coat and stay bald or maintain only a sparse coat. The kittens born bald will generally grow a curly coat with age. The coat continues to develop for up to 3 years and will have varying degrees of curl. The coat is low maintenance with little tendency to mat and little shedding compared to other breeds. There is also a tendency for this breed to cause fewer allergies in humans than with other breeds, probably due to fewer guard hairs.

Any color is acceptable in this breed and they can be bred to anything at this point in time. The standard states "open registry until sufficient gene pool has been established". The preferable out-cross desired by The LaPerm Society of America is, however, the domestic cat. As long as one parent is straight haired, there is the chance of straight haired kittens. This also occurs breeding curly to curly, but fewer in a resulting litter will have the straight hair. There is the possibility of a homozygous cat when breeding curly to curly.

Although the look of each kitten varies, one thing always remains the same: the great personality of this new breed. Even the occasional straight-haired kitten is blessed with it, which makes finding good homes for them very easy.

LaPerms are very gentle and affectionate. They seek human contact and purr as soon as they become aware of your presence. These cats are face lovers; they will reach for your face with their paws and rub their faces against your head, neck and face. They love being kissed and will kiss back. They beg to be held, drooped over a shoulder or cradled in your arms while resting on their backs.

Don't let this make you think they are lazy. On the contrary, they readily learn to fetch as well as many other tricks. They are inquisitive in nature, always wanting to know what is going on around them. Kittens have been known to stop nursing and seek out the source of a human voice even before their eyes are open. They are generally quiet-voiced but may be vocal when wanting attention. Being a working cat on the farm, they are excellent hunters, as well as gentle companions. They adapt well to apartment living because of their strong bonding instinct.

The coat on both the short and long-haired varieties may vary in length and fullness depending upon the season and the maturity of the cat. Both males and females have a full ruff on the neck at maturity.

M

-Maine Coon

Other Names: American Forest Longhair, American Longhair, American Shag, American Snughead, Yankee Cat

* A Maine Coon cat is mixed with a cat and a raccoon

Myths, legend and lore surround the Maine Coon Cat. Some are amusing, some are fantastic flights of fantasy and some are merely plausible. They certainly provide good material for conversation. Books and articles dealing with these aspects of the Maine Coon Cat have been well received as people never seem to tire of the subject and are always eager to know more about this wonderful breed.

The Maine Coon is the native American longhaired cat and was recognized as a specific breed in Maine where they were held in high regard for their mousing talents. Through nature’s own breeding program, this breed has developed into a sturdy cat ideally suited to the harsh winters and varied seasons of the region. The Maine Coon is well known for its loving nature, kindly disposition and great intelligence. Maines are especially good with children and dogs and have always been a popular and sought after companion

The Maine Coon has always been admired for its beauty, and a Maine Coon was chosen Best Cat at the first major cat show ever held in this country. The transition from easygoing farm cat to CFA finalist was not an easy one, nor did it happen quickly. Although they lost favor and were conspicuously absent from shows for quite a long time, we are now seeing large classes of these beauties in most cat shows and it is not unusual for a Maine Coon to be named "Best Cat."

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-Manx

Other Names: Cymric (that's a longhaired manx)

* Manx is a tail less cat naturally. Cymric is a longhaired manx.

The Manx cat is believed to have originated hundreds of years ago on the Isle of Man, off the coast of England. Since many trade ships docked on the Isle, and all had ship cats, it is hard to tell just what the parent cat really was. Obviously, both longhair and shorthair were represented in the original mutation. Many longhairs were seen on the Isle along with the shorthairs.

Records have been found on the Isle of Man that describe the cat as a mutation of the island’s domestic cats. It is believed that the island cats were involved, however, did some of the island cats come off the ships? We will never really know.

Since the Manx (or tailless) gene is dominant, kittens that inherit it can have a full tail, a short tail, a rise (known as a "rumpy riser"), or no tail ("rumpies") at all. Breeders have found that it is possible to have all these tail lengths in one litter! Only the rumpy or the rumpy riser are eligible for competition in the championship category at CFA shows. All other tail lengths are eligible for the AOV (any other variety) Class. Many of today’s top breeding females are those that had a long tail when born. Numerous Grand Champions have come from a tailed cat, either male or female. The introduction of a tailed Manx into a breeding program provides a necessary sturdiness.

Besides taillessness, the Manx is known for its robust and rounded appearance. This breed can actually be drawn with a series of circles! It has a very round head and rounded cheeks which give it a jowly appearance; even more so in the male cat than in the female. It is high in the hind quarters with the back legs much longer than the forelegs, thus causing the rump to be higher than the shoulders. The shortness of back forms a continuous arch from shoulders to rump. The eyes are rounded but set at a slight tilt toward the ear. The Manx should have a sweet expression.

There are two types of Manx coats, shorthair and longhair (formerly Cymric). The coat length is the only difference between the longhair and shorthair Manx. The shorthair has a double coat, the outer guardhairs are somewhat hard, appearance is glossy. A softer coat may occur in whites and dilutes due to color texture gene link. The longhair has a silky texture to its coat. The coat will be of medium length, with breeches, abdomen and neck ruff being longer than the coat on the main body. The silky texture is soft, and falls smoothly on the body yet being full and plush due to the double coat.

The Manx is a very playful cat as a rule. They can jump higher than anyone could imagine, and it is not unusual to find them perching on the highest point in any room. They have extremely powerful hind quarters. It has been stated by one Manx owner that "Manx are the feline sport cars of the car world with their acceleration and quick turns." Manx exhibit many dog-like characteristics such as retrieving and burying their toys. They will either be known as a "one person cat" or the "family cat." However, once they bond with someone, it is difficult for many Manx to be happy in a different home. On the other hand, there are those Manx that readily accept attention from any human source!

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-Mojave Spotted

The Mojave Spotted, originally named the Mojave Desert Cat was first discovered back in 1980 by April Langford. In 1980 the first colony of wild cats were discovered living under the thick desert shrubbery in deep borrows which were used for the purpose of sheltering the cats offspring from the harsh desert weather. It is not known as to how these burrows were dug, possibly by other wild animals or by the cats themselves. Colony size was never noted but there were at least 6 adult cats to each colony found.

First colony found in a small town called Hesperia, located in Southern California. Each cat that was observed resembled one another down to the very specific spotted pattern including body structure but color did slightly vary from one cat to another. Colors ranged from silver, brown, gold agouti & black between the different colonies. These cats were larger than an average house cat, a larger bone structure and large paws, lynx like paws in mitten shape, almost resembling the local wild Bobcat. It is not known as to the possibility of the two species being related or not but they did seem to resemble one another. Average litter size was 1- 3 kittens & approximately 1 litter a year. Lifespan for an average adult cat is unknown.

Study shows these cats survived on a diet of live birds, desert mice, lizards and insects. Predators are the coyote, mountain lion, dog packs & man. In 1984 a litter of Mojave Desert kittens were found abandoned beneath a large Juniper tree, ice cold from the approaching winter, and starving. It seems as though during colder parts of the year food sources were very low and if the Queen had trouble finding the food she needed, she would just abandon her young. After several years the wild cats became more and more scarce.

By 1990 people from all over began to come to the small desert town and the cats started to slowly disappear. By this time the breeding program to preserve the Mojave Desert cat had already been underway. It was such a shame to see these beautiful cats just vanish without a trace, so by taking this into serious consideration the Mojave wild cat lives to this very day but in the homes of the people who helped save it. The most important thing to be taken into consideration in the study of these cats, was the untamable nature of the cat even when raised in a completely human environment, this was something that would need immediate attention in order to keep them in captivity.

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-Munchkin

The Munchkin is a naturally occurring domestic cat breed characterised by unusually short legs. A spontaneous change in the genetic heritage of the cat has introduced a gene similar to that seen in the Basset Hound, Corgi, and Dachshund, which the Munchkin closely resembles. However these cats have been proven free of the spinal problems sometimes found in the Dachshund.

Seeming to have disappeared from Europe, the Munchkin was rediscovered in Rayville, Louisiana by Sandra Hochenedel in the 1980's. Sandra was in pursuit of a pet cat for her three children. She found Blackberry, a pregnant female cat living beneath a truck in a rural area. Back at home, Sandra was astonished when she realised the cat was unlike any other cat that she ever had seen. This extraordinary cat had body movements that were ferret-like with dwarf legs that resembled the Corgi dog. Blackberry proudly presented Sandra's family with several litters, and each litter included short and long-legged kittens. One day Blackberry vanished. Sandra feared the trait was lost again, but it was not. The gene pool was retrieved from Blackberry kittens that had been given to Kaye LaFrance.

A Munchkin is a product of nature rather than a manmade breed. Because of the autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, a cat with the Munchkin gene will produce kittens with the same short legs. There is no evidence to suggest that the gene for short legs hampers survival or quality of life.

The Munchkin is a medium sized cat with a substantial, thick semi-foreign body type and a well-rounded chest. Munchkin litters consist of both short and long legged kittens. Male Munckins are generally larger than their female counterparts.

Captivating Munchkins come in all colors and hair lengths. Both varieties have plush, all-weather, resilient coats with a lustrous, silky appearance. The longhair Munchkin has the distinction of sporting a beautiful plumed tail. Eyes are medium large and walnut shaped found in most colors with a deeper, more vivid eye color preferred.

These irresistible cats can do anything other cats can do. Munchkins are able to leap great heights such as counter tops, although many prefer to intelligently find an easier way up. Munchkins movements are described as being like that of a ferret. They can also run extremely fast, despite their short legs.

Munchkins are defiantly exquisite cats full of cat adventurousness that all cat lovers appreciate, fully equipped with personality plus some, palsy-walsy, self-assured, and trainable to walk with a bounce on a leash. With amazement and enjoyment you'll watch these cuddly little cuties accelerate taking corners like small sports cars ducking under house hold objects. They can be taught to play fetch and to zestfully obey voice commands. The Munchkin is sociable and enjoys company. Friendly and self-assured the Munchkin gets along well with other cats, dogs, and people. They retain their kitten personalities throughout their lives. Munchkins can be a welcome delight in any home.

N

-Nebelung

Other Names: Long Haired Russian Blue

Overall Appearance - The Nebelung is a long, fine-boned, graaceful cat. Round green eyes are prominently featured on a triangular head with a blunt muzzle and erect, widely spaced ears. The Nebelung's lustrous, silver-tipped gray coat is one of its most distinctive features. Its fluffy tail distinguishes the breed from the Russian Blue.

Personality - Owners describe them as shy yet affectionate. They've also been described as somewhat flighty, perhaps not the best quality in a cat if you have children. Nebelungs are sprightly cats; many will retrieve objects and some reportedly can open doors. They love to drink water from faucets.

Breed Fact - The Nebelung, essentially a longhaired Russian Blue, is named for the luminous quality of its silver-tipped coat: Nebelung is German for "creature of the mist." Nebelung are intelligent cats, well mannered and fastidious, with quiet voices to match their gentle demeanor. In the 1980s in the United States, a Russian Blue male was crossed with a female that carried the longhair gene. The foundation stock for the new longhaired breed, the Nebelung, was taken from two litters of that cross.

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-Norwegian Forest Cat

Other Names: Siberian Forest Cat

Bright emerald green eyes with a band of gold. Long flowing hair. Sweet-expressioned faces. Jaunty ear and toe trimmings. Each time you see a Norwegian Forest Cat is a feast for the eyes. Each time you touch their spun-silk soft coats is a delight to the fingertips.

These are the cats that explored the world with the Vikings, protecting the grain stores on land and sea, and which are believed to have left their progeny on the shores of North America as a legacy to the future.

These lovely cats are really two for the price of one, they can differ so greatly in looks from summer to winter. Some time in the spring they take off their "winter underwear," the downy undercoat that provides warmth, and the long non-tangling outer guardhairs that act as protection from rain and snow. The contrast can be quite extreme. The inner-ear hair that deflects the wind and snow (and can be three to four inches long, curving out and around the ear like flexible racing stripes) remains all year. The tail is always magnificent, being as much as twelve inches or more when fanned to its fullest. Perhaps the most impressive part of the coat is the mane. On a fully mature cat, i.e. one over five years of age and which is challenged by the most adverse cold weather, the mane is nothing less than spectacular. It is long, dense and very, very impressive! This, unfortunately, may disappear in the spring, but rest assured that it will begin to lengthen again as the days begin to shorten.

They appear in coats of most colors, from pure white to deepest coal black, with every possible coat pattern and color combination in between, with the exception of the colorpoint colors as seen in the Siamese or Persian-Himalayan such as seal point or chocolate point. Darker cats require less coat to keep warm since they absorb more heat from the sun. Lighter cats tend to have fuller coats with more undercoat. Some colors change from light to darker tones with the seasons. Mother Nature is so thoughtful! And, finally, because they are a natural breed, their mature size will differ from line to line.

Is their Norse name accurate? Yes, the skogkatt, meaning forest cat, really did come out of the Scandinavian forests some time in the last 4,000 years. However, they are not feral but are among the most people-oriented cats. Of course their personalities differ, depending upon the type home in which they spend their early kittenhood. As with any other breed, a kitten handled and petted by many loving people from birth and which has been exposed to children, cats and dogs will be different from one born and raised in an isolated area with limited human contact.

A question frequently asked is about the care the long coats require. As one breeder is fond of saying: "Mother Nature does not have hairdressers in the deep woods, so she did not design the cat to require the daily attention necessary to some other longhaired breeds." Very little, if any, combing is required for non-show cats, but is recommended during spring shedding.

O

- Ocicat

Othr Names: Accicat

“Oh, look spots! Is it tame? What kind of cat is this? It must be something special.’’

Indeed they are! This magnificent spotted cat never fails to steal the show, not to mention the hearts of those fortunate enough to own them.

The Ocicat is an agouti spotted cat of moderate type. Originating from interbreeding of Abyssinian, Siamese and American Shorthair, it is the only spotted domestic breed selectively bred to emulate the cats of the wild.

The ideal Ocicat is a large, active animal with an athletic appearance. It is very solid and well-muscled and has a short, tight coat with a satin sheen that shows off muscles and spots to their best advantage.

Feline enthusiasts have always been awed by the spotted cats of the wild: ocelots, margays, leopards and others. Never before was there such an effort to breed an entirely domestic cat which can offer the spotted beauty of the wild cats, while maintaining the lovely, predictable disposition of the domestic cat. With so many wild spotteds disappearing as their native habitats are destroyed and invaded, it is increasingly important that this man-made breed can satisfy people who want something ‘'exotic." How sad that so many wild spotted cats have suffered abuse and destruction. Perhaps the Ocicat will do its part in preventing the poaching and importation of the endangered wild cats.

While the Ocicat looks wild, its temperament is anything but ferocious. It is a lot like a dog in that it is absolutely devoted to its people. The Ocicat is not a demanding, clinging-vine type, but is confident as well as dedicated to its owners. Most Ocicats are also quite extroverted around strangers, not at all bashful about checking out the possibilities for a few playmates or a lap to curl up on when visitors come to call.

Ocicats are quite bright and easily trained. Many will fetch, walk on a leash, respond to voice commands and readily adapt to household rules. Because of their adaptability, they are a joy to work with and easily get used to traveling. Their sociable nature may make them less suited than some other breeds to being left alone for long periods of time, but it does make them a good choice for a household already blessed with other cats or dogs.

Though Ocicats fill the need for the exotic, they are easy to keep and require no special care. Their diets are the same as any domestic and their short coats need only the occasional bathing and grooming. They are not prone to any particular health problem and their broad genetic background gives them vigor and vitality.

There has been tremendous controversy about the genetics of inheritance associated with the spotted pattern. In the earlier days of the cat fancy, when life was simpler, all patterned cats were believed to display one of the three tabby patterns: ticked (Aby), mackerel (tiger striped), or classic (blotched or bull's eye). The spotted pattern of the Ocicat, at least on the better examples of the breed, is notedly different from other spotted breeds or varieties. While some believe this comes from a different gene altogether, there is no conclusive evidence and it might be that selective breeding is responsible for the Ocicat's lovely pattern.

Ocicats come in many colors and at least all those colors associated with the three foundation breeds: tawny, chocolate, cinnamon, blue, lavender, fawn, silver, chocolate silver, cinnamon silver, blue silver, lavender silver, and fawn silver

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-Ojos Azules

Ojos Azules (Spanish for "blue eyes") is a relatively new breed distinguished by blue eyes that are not linked to coat color. Blue eye color used to be found exclusively in either colorpoint or white cats, but in the Ojos Azules, blue eyes and odd-eyes are linked to any coat color.

While they may be found in any color, white patching on the peripheral parts of the cat, particularly the tips of the feet and tail, are a common manifestation of the Ojos gene. Less white is considered most desirable, except in colorpoint, where the typical white peripheral tipping is necessary to illustrate that this is a true Ojos and not just a colorpoint manifesting non-Ojos blue eyes.

The Ojos is a medium-build cat, neither cobby nor Oriental-like in build. They are a pretty cat with a sweet expression, and the eyes should be large to show off the dramatic color.

This is an exceptionally rare breed.

Interesting breed fact: Ojos Azules in the United States descend from a New Mexican tortoiseshell cat named Cornflower, born in 1984.

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-Oriental Longhair

The Oriental is a man-made breed and comes in both a Shorthair and a Longhair variety. The Oriental Shorthair has a short, fine textured coat, glossy or satin-like, that lies close to body. The Oriental Longhair has a coat that is medium length, fine, silky, without downy undercoat, lying close to the body. The coat may actually appear shorter than it is. Hair is longest on the tail.

In England, the various colors produced from breeding Siamese to domestic cats, Russian Blues and other cats were given unique color names and were granted breed status according to the individual color and pattern. Kittens from the same litter could be registered as different breeds, based on their color or coat pattern.

Orientals represent a diverse group of cats that have their foundation in the Siamese breed. When the Oriental Shorthair was accepted for championship status it rapidly became one of the most popular breeds. With the addition of the Oriental Longhair into this family of sleek, muscular felines the Oriental breed can provide a cat for just about anyone.

These are two of several breeds described as Oriental. The four breeds have the same type; they are separated only by variations in color, pattern and hair length. They are beautiful and they know it. The Oriental type is characterized by large ears, a wedge-shaped head, a long neck, a long body and legs, and a long, whippy, pointed tail. To handle these cats is likened to feeling a silk glove over an iron hand. These cats are fine boned and delicate in appearance, long and elegant in every extreme while retaining firm, hard muscles. They should feel as hard as rock, never emaciated or too thin. The wedge shaped head, which ends in a fine muzzle, should fit into a long triangular shape. In profile, a straight line without a dip or rise is seen from the center of the forehead to the tip of the nose and from the tip of the nose to the bottom of the chin. There should not be a whisker pinch; that is, the line from the side of the chin to the base of the ears should be straight with no indentation where the muzzle attaches to the skull. Large, broad-based ears extend and complete the triangular head as a continuation of the wedge and are angled slightly forward. The medium-sized, almond-shaped eyes should be approximately one eye’s width apart, with a slant toward the nose and the outer aperture in line with the center of the ear base. This combination of eye shape, size, placement and set gives the eyes a decidedly oriental look. The slender, graceful neck is carried to display length and adds to the elegance of the cat. The long, tubular body is medium in size, with fine or slender boning and hard muscles. The legs are long with the hind legs longer than the forelegs. The feet are oval, small and dainty. The Oriental may be shown in solid colors or in patterns.

Oriental cats are vocal; and not only when they are in season. As loving as these cats are, their calling may not make them popular with the neighbors. They will often carry on a running conversation with their owners and their genuine love of people brings an assurance of close companionship.

They are active, and their minds seem to be whirling with activity. If they do not have a playmate, they will create one out of anything. Height beckons a flight up or down; they delight in jumping and have been seen to leap four or five feet in any direction with ease. They are not outdoor cats. Most will make no effort to escape into the great unknown. The Oriental requires little grooming. These super-intelligent cats make wonderful pets if the owner can put up with the constant demand for companionship. They want to be with you every moment of every day. They will befriend you for life.

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-Oriental Shorthair

Take a Siamese, coat it in any one or combination of a kalaidescope of colors, and you will have an approximation of the Oriental. The Oriental's personality is as colorful as its coat, and you will be continually delighted at its antics as it accompanies you through every activity of the day.

Be forewarned though-- Orientals crave companionship, and if you ignore yours or take it for granted, it will let you know its displeasure. The Oriental will remain loyal throughout its life and deserves no less from its human companion.

Breed Brief: Body: Long and svelte, with tapering lines, lithe but muscular.

Coat: Short, fine textured, and satin-like, lying close to the body, and approved in 300 different colors and patterns.

Extra: The Oriental was developed from Siamese stock in an effort to retain the type while adding solid colors and other patterns than the traditional pointed pattern.

P

-Persian                       

As the dusty desert caravans wound their way westward from Persia and Iran, it is supposed that secreted among the rare spices and jewels on the basket-laden camels was an even more precious cargo, an occasional longhair cat. They were called Persian for their "country of origin," but hieroglyphic references as early as 1684 B.C. shroud forever their exact beginnings.

Persians, with their long flowing coats and open pansy-like faces are the number one breed in popularity. Their sweet, gentle, personalities blend into most households once they feel secure in their new environment. Creatures of habit, they are most at home in an atmosphere of security and serenity, but with love and reassurance, can easily adapt to the most boisterous of households. Their quiet, melodious voices are pleasant and non-abrasive. They communicate delightfully with their large expressive eyes and make charming pets for all ages. Persians have short heavily-boned legs to support their broad, short bodies. They like to have their feet firmly planted and are not given to high jumping and climbing. Playful but never demanding, they love to pose and will drape themselves in a favorite window or chair, enhancing the decor in much the same way as a treasured painting. Persians are tremendously responsive and become a constant source of joy and delight to their owners. Pleasurable as an unexpected sunbeam, their companionship is close and enduring.

Their long flowing coats require an indoor, protected environment. Proper maintenance requires a daily run-through with a metal comb to eliminate the potential drawbacks of tangles and hairballs. An occasional bath, attempted only after a complete comb-through and clipping of the nail tips, will keep the coat clean, healthy and beautiful. It is wise to establish the routine of the bath when they are young. While the white Persian has long been the darling of photographers and advertisers, Persians come in an astonishing number of colors, which are divided into seven color divisions for purposes of competition. Those are:

-Solid Color Division

In the Solid Division, only the pristine whites come in three different eye colors. Some have brilliant copper or deep blue eyes, others the surprising combination of one blue and one copper eye of equal intensity. The other solid colors have brilliant copper eyes. The coat color for all solids should be sound to the roots and free from markings or shadings. Blues, once the apex of the breed, have been interbred with other colors to produce a more uniform type. Their pale silver-blue coats are most beautiful when viewed in natural lighting. Blacks have glossy patent finishes that glisten with intensity. Pale milk-colored creams are the dilute of the deep vibrant glowing reds. Chocolates and lilacs, introduced through the combination of Persian and Himalayan, are rarely seen. The chocolate demonstrates a warm chocolate-brown color while the lilac is a warm lavender with a pinkish tone.

Pricing on Persians usually depends on type, applicable markings and bloodlines distinguished by Grand Champion (GC), National or Regional winning parentage (NW or RW) or of Distinguished Merit parentage (DM). The DM title is achieved by the dam (mother) having produced five CFA grand champion/premier (alter) or DM offspring, or sire (father) having produced fifteen CFA grand champion/premier or DM offspring. Usually breeders make kittens available between twelve and sixteen weeks of age. After twelve weeks, kittens have had their basic inoculations and developed the physical and social stability needed for a new environment, showing, or being transported by air. Keeping such a rare treasure indoors, neutering or spaying and providing acceptable surfaces (e.g. scratching posts) for the natural behavior of scratching (CFA disapproves of declawing or tendonectomy surgery) are essential elements for maintaining a healthy, long and joyful life.

-Silver and Golden Division

The Silver and Golden Division consists of chinchilla and shaded silvers and goldens. The exquisite silvers are considered the most ethereal of all Persians. The chinchilla is a sparkling white cat with black tipping scattered as evenly as stardust, ever so lightly, on the face, legs, tail and body. Shadeds show a mantle of black on the back, shading evenly down the sides. The tipping on the legs and face should match and is darker than the chinchilla. Goldens are either chinchilla or shaded. Their ground color is a rich, warm cream tipped with black. Silvers and goldens have green or blue-green eyes rimmed with black, black paw pads and brick red or rose nose leather.

Pricing on Persians usually depends on type, applicable markings and bloodlines distinguished by Grand Champion (GC), National or Regional winning parentage (NW or RW) or of Distinguished Merit parentage (DM). The DM title is achieved by the dam (mother) having produced five CFA grand champion/premier (alter) or DM offspring, or sire (father) having produced fifteen CFA grand champion/premier or DM offspring. Usually breeders make kittens available between twelve and sixteen weeks of age. After twelve weeks, kittens have had their basic inoculations and developed the physical and social stability needed for a new environment, showing, or being transported by air. Keeping such a rare treasure indoors, neutering or spaying and providing acceptable surfaces (e.g. scratching posts) for the natural behavior of scratching (CFA disapproves of declawing or tendonectomy surgery) are essential elements for maintaining a healthy, long and joyful life.

-Shaded and Smoke Division

The Shaded and Smoke Division includes the shell and shaded cameos which have red tipping with a white undercoat. The cream shell and shaded cameos demonstrate a white undercoat tipped with cream. The shell and shaded tortoiseshells have a mantle of black tipping with well-defined patches of red tipped hairs while the shell and shaded blue-creams have blue tipping with well-defined patches of cream tipped hair.

The smoke Persian is one of the most striking patterns of the Persian colors. There are six separate colors, black, blue, cream, cameo (red), smoke tortoiseshell and blue-cream smoke. In repose, the smoke appears to be a solid color cat. In motion, the coat will break open, giving glimpses of a startling white undercoat. All should have the characteristic white ruff and ear tufts. The perfect balance of undercoat to overcoat is transitory and the perfection of color balance can usually only be seen six to eight weeks annually. Their brilliant copper eyes seem almost like burning embers within the smoke setting.

-Tabby Division

The Tabbies are the extroverts of the Persian breed. They come in three patterns: classic, mackerel and patched tabby. The patched tabby may exhibit either the classic or mackerel pattern with the addition of patches of red. The classic tabby is identified by the bull’s eye markings on the side of the body while the mackerel pattern is characterized by narrow penciling encircling the body. The brilliantly contrasted markings can be as striking as an exotic jungle cat. Often referred to as the “fun’’ cat, tabbies are outgoing and demonstrative. Their facial markings give them a zesty added appeal. Recognized colors are silver, blue silver, red, brown, blue, cream, cameo and cream cameo. There are no patched tabby patterns in red, cream and cameo. All have brilliant copper eyes except silver varieties which also may have green or hazel.

Pricing on Persians usually depends on type, applicable markings and bloodlines distinguished by Grand Champion (GC), National or Regional winning parentage (NW or RW) or of Distinguished Merit parentage (DM). The DM title is achieved by the dam (mother) having produced five CFA grand champion/premier (alter) or DM offspring, or sire (father) having produced fifteen CFA grand champion/premier or DM offspring. Usually breeders make kittens available between twelve and sixteen weeks of age. After twelve weeks, kittens have had their basic inoculations and developed the physical and social stability needed for a new environment, showing, or being transported by air. Keeping such a rare treasure indoors, neutering or spaying and providing acceptable surfaces (e.g. scratching posts) for the natural behavior of scratching (CFA disapproves of declawing or tendonectomy surgery) are essential elements for maintaining a healthy, long and joyful life.

-Particolor Division

The Parti-Color Division consists of the tortoiseshell, blue-cream, chocolate tortoiseshell and lilac-cream. The tortoiseshell is a black cat dispersed with great patches of red. A dividing blaze of color on the face adds interest to this brightly colored variety. The blue-cream, a delightful study in pastel, is a solid blue cat patched with cream. The muted coloring of the blue-cream and lilac-cream are as softly lovely as the tortoiseshell and chocolate tortie are flashy. All four colors have brilliant copper eyes.

Pricing on Persians usually depends on type, applicable markings and bloodlines distinguished by Grand Champion (GC), National or Regional winning parentage (NW or RW) or of Distinguished Merit parentage (DM). The DM title is achieved by the dam (mother) having produced five CFA grand champion/premier (alter) or DM offspring, or sire (father) having produced fifteen CFA grand champion/premier or DM offspring. Usually breeders make kittens available between twelve and sixteen weeks of age. After twelve weeks, kittens have had their basic inoculations and developed the physical and social stability needed for a new environment, showing, or being transported by air. Keeping such a rare treasure indoors, neutering or spaying and providing acceptable surfaces (e.g. scratching posts) for the natural behavior of scratching (CFA disapproves of declawing or tendonectomy surgery) are essential elements for maintaining a healthy, long and joyful life.

-Bicolor Division

Calico & Bi-Color Division: consists of calicos, bi-colors, smoke and whites and tabby and whites. Calicos have white coats splashed with vivid patches of red and black, while the dilute calico is patched with blue and cream. The chocolate and lilac calicos have white coats splashed with vivid patches of chocolate and red or lilac and cream respectively. A van pattern is a white cat with color confined to the head and extremities. A maximum of two spots of color are allowed on the body. Bi-colors (black, blue, red, cream, chocolate or lilac with white) commonly exhibit white on the feet, legs, undersides, chest and muzzle. All established colors and patterns of tabbies with white and smokes with white are shown in this division. All have brilliant copper eyes except for the silver tabby with white which also may have green or hazel.

-Himalayan Division

The Himalayan is one of the most popular of all Persians. The Himalayan is shown in the following point colors: chocolate, seal, lilac, blue, red, cream tortie, blue-cream, chocolate-tortie, lilac-cream, seal lynx, blue lynx, red lynx, cream lynx, tortie lynx, blue-cream lynx, chocolate lynx, lilac lynx, chocolate-tortie lynx and lilac-cream lynx. Color is restricted to the facial mask and extremities with the body of various shades of white to fawn. Himalayans were developed by breeding Persians to Siamese to combine the Siamese point coloring with Persian type. After many years of cross breeding they were approved as accepted color variations of Persians. All must have deep vivid blue eyes as eyes other than blue are a disqualification.

Pricing on Persians usually depends on type, applicable markings and bloodlines distinguished by Grand Champion (GC), National or Regional winning parentage (NW or RW) or of Distinguished Merit parentage (DM). The DM title is achieved by the dam (mother) having produced five CFA grand champion/premier (alter) or DM offspring, or sire (father) having produced fifteen CFA grand champion/premier or DM offspring. Usually breeders make kittens available between twelve and sixteen weeks of age. After twelve weeks, kittens have had their basic inoculations and developed the physical and social stability needed for a new environment, showing, or being transported by air. Keeping such a rare treasure indoors, neutering or spaying and providing acceptable surfaces (e.g. scratching posts) for the natural behavior of scratching (CFA disapproves of declawing or tendonectomy surgery) are essential elements for maintaining a healthy, long and joyful life.

*Keeping the Persian indoors also keeps it safe from transmission of disease and parasites, as well as the dangers of urban life. With an annual trip to a trusted veterinarian, and good nutrition and care, the Persian can live as a family member for easily 15 years, and some surpassing 20 years. Persian breeders dedicate themselves to breeding healthy cats, availing themselves of the latest in veterinary screening procedures to test for any heritable disease conditions. A well-bred Persian is a hardy and healthy cat and is not more prone to illness and respiratory infections than other breeds. However, the large eyes do mean that a certain amount of tearing is normal, and a daily face wash is recommended.

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-Peterbald

The Peterbald is the newest hairless breed. They are descended from the Russian Don Hairless breed with outcrosses to Oriental and Siamese cats. They are unrelated to the Sphynx, as the gene that causes the hairlessness is different.

The Peterbald is a graceful, muscular, foreign-bodied cat with long legs and fine to medium boning. They have a long, whippy tail, oval feet, wedge-shaped heads and delicate, warm, elastic, "chamois-like" skin. They are found in a wide range of colors and patterns, including colorpoint. Eye color generally conforms to coat (skin) color. They are lively, intelligent companions.

Cats younger than two years of age may have a soft, wavy coat along any or all of the body. True baldness begins from the head, neck and upper part of the back. If any coat remains it is short, soft, and wavy on the extremities - the muzzle, base of ears, forelegs, feet, or along some or all of the tail

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-Pixie-Bob

The Pixie-Bob is a unique breed of cat with bobcat heritage. On the North American Continent, in every geographical area where the Bobcat may be found, kittens are born in barns each spring, resulting from wild, domestic matings. This is the legendary ancestry of the Pixie-Bob.

The Pixie-Bob was founded in the early 1980s by Carol Ann Brewer of StoneIsland Cattery in Washington State, USA. In 1985, a small Coastal Red Bobcat was seen fighting with a short-tailed polydactlyl barn cat. The owners ran to save their cat from possible harm, and later kittens were born through suspicious circumstances. A male polydactyl kitten was purchased by Carol Ann Brewer, who was immediately intrigued with the kitten's appearance and behavior.

Carol began a search for information to help her understand if this unusual cat would have any special needs. She discovered documentation by others who also believed that they had a cat with wild heritage and that what had occurred in the Pacific Northwest, was not that unusual. It seemed that this breed essentially began through a naturally occurring mating between a Bobcat and a domestic.

Carol Brewer called her first cat a "Legend Cat", and within the year, she had acquired one more cat with exactly the same "legend" and another of speculative heritage, but whose sheer size, appearance and tail length convinced her to use him to form the basis of a breeding program. Pixie was a female kitten born from the union of two of these original cats. She was covered with muted spotting on her reddish-fawn coat and had a very wild face, reminiscent of a Bobcat. Pixie then became the dam line for most of the females in the program, and also became the namesake for the breed.

The Pixie-Bob is muscular cat with a heavy bone structure that features a double coat that can range from a woolly short "stand out" coat to slightly longer medium length silky coat. Facial appearance is especially reminiscent of the Bobcat. These cats also have a naturally bobbed tail, usually between two and six inches. Males range in weight between 12 to 26 pounds, females are usually smaller.

A straight foot Pixie-Bob has the normal number of toes usually allotted to a cat, 5 in the front, 4 in the back. A poly or polydactyl Pixie-Bob has more than the usual allotted number. Being polydactyl is such a dominant trait that this is the only breed accepted for show with more than the usual number of toes. Many Pixie-Bobs also have Lynx tufting on their ear tips

Pixie-Bobs are intelligent and loyal cats with a doglike devotion that makes them great companions and affectionate household pets. This breed exhibits an unusually strong bond with their family and make excellent companions for children. These highly intelligent cats will train easily to walk on a harness and quickly learn to fetch and play other games. Pixi-Bobs are also extremely quiet cats with only an occasional chirp or chitter that they use to talk to their humans. This is a very adaptable breed that loves to travel and gets along very well with other pet animals. These cats are often referred to as "dogs in disguise". Owners quickly become enchanted with these beautiful cats and it is often said that there is nothing like being owned by a Pixie-Bob.

Pixi-Bob Coat patterns range from spots to broken bars and rosettes. Color varies in shades of brown and russet with silver to black ticking. Eyes are medium sized, deep set with gold to brown colour preferred. Wild gooseberry green is also accepted.

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-Poodle Cat

From 1994 report, a new type of Rex Cat has been developed in Germany. In German it is called the Pudelkatze, or Poodle Cat. It was created by crossing Devon Rex with Scottish Fold to produce a breed with a lambswool coat and folded ears.

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-Ragamuffin

When you first see a RagaMuffin from a distance - you will find yourself in awe. There lies a gorgeous, massive cat with large expressive eyes that are just begging for you to come closer. You will not believe its sumptuous color, its soft coat or the substantial size of its body.

RagaMuffins come in all coat colors and patterns, with the pointed and pointed with white colors being registered by CFA but not shown. These are striking cats whether the color is blue, brown tabby with white, tortoiseshell or mink. The coat is medium-long, yet the RagaMuffin is a low maintenance cat. Although the coat is thick and plush, it does not readily mat or clump and is easy to care for.

RagaMuffins are classically large cats, with females averaging between ten and fifteen pounds. Males often weigh between fifteen and twenty pounds. Each is heavily boned, with a tendency toward a fatty pad on the lower abdomen. They are fully mature at approximately four years of age and have a long life expectancy. As a general rule, RagaMuffins are strong and healthy with no known genetic health problems within the breed.

A RagaMuffin's personality is one of extreme sweetness, with traits of those similar to an endearing lap dog. Each one of these cats thrives on attention and it is not unusual for any one of them to greet you at the door, follow you from room-to-room and become your faithful companion. They make wonderful family pets, with so much affection to give everyone in the family, including your other pets.

RagaMuffins are wonderful with children. Their calm and patient temperament lends itself to the boisterous, robust play of youngsters and they can easily be found attending tea parties or taking rides in baby strollers. Their easy-going personality makes them adaptive to almost any environment or situation, as long as they have their humans' attention and interest..

A RagaMuffin tends to be calm and will likely to be found curled in your lap as you read a book or watch television. Yet, these are not lazy cats. Just pull out their toys and you will find them ready for action.

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-Ragdoll

Ragdolls are large, loving longhairs with silky, plush nonmatting fur and large, expressive oval blue eyes. The standard Ragdoll body is light-coloured, with darker Siamese-type points on face, legs, ears and tail. In most patterns, the points are partly covered with white markings.

They are extremely docile, affectionate, intelligent, playful, people-oriented cats that adore their humans. Always considerate and gentle, they make ideal pets for children and get along well with dogs and other felines. It is not surprising that these beautiful cats are considered the gentlest and most easy-going of the breeds.

Ragdolls were developed in the 1960's by Ann Baker; a breeder in California. She bred Josephine, a loving, gentle, longhaired white Angora carrying Siamese markings, to both a Burmese and Birman male. It was their offspring that resulted in the first Ragdolls. These kittens were blessed with a beautiful nature with the extra qualities of non-matting fur, a huge size, and a non-fighting disposition.

Ragdolls appears in four recognised colours of seal, blue, chocolate and lilac either with or without markings on the face and feet. Any of these colors may be transposed over each of the three patterns of Colourpointed, Mitted or Bicolour. Other nonstandard colours include red, cream, fawn, lynx and cinnamon.

Ragdolls are slow to mature. It can take between 3 to 4 years for Ragdolls to reach full maturity and attain the desired coat qualities and definition of contrasting color.

The Ragdoll is also considered the largest fully domestic breed of cat. Full size and weight is often reached at about 4 years old with altered males sometimes reaching 20 pounds or more and female Ragdolls proportionally smaller.

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-Russian Blue

Other Names: American Blue, Maltese Blue, Archangel

The Russian blue cat originated from the most northerly regions of Russia and Scandinavia. Russian blue cats have been known by a variety of names including, archangel cats, foreign blues, spanish cats and maltese cats. The reason behind the variety of names given to this breed of cat is lost in history. After World War II American cat breeders gegain to combine British and Scandinavian cat bloodlines to develop the current Russian blue cat's plush, silvery coats and emerald green eyes.

The russian blue cat is a debonair, almost regal, cat that possesses a gentle and sweet nature. It is extremely robust and healthy and is easy to look after. The russian blue has a lithe, slender and graceful body with fine bones. Its legs are long and its paws are somewhat small as compared with other cat breeds. It has a 'double coat' which is short, dense, fine and plush, much like seal fur. The coat can actually hold an imprint of you fingers as you run through it. Ofcourse, the only color the Russian Blue Cat comes in is blue; its guard hairs are silver-tipped giving its coat a lustrous, silvery shine.

The russian blue cat's personality can be described as docile and shy but extremely affectionate. The russian blue has a quiet, musical little voice and is highly intelligent. This cat can actually be taught to fetch and opens doors with skill.

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-Savannah

During the early 1980's, cat breeder Judee Frank successfully bred a male
African serval to a female domestic cat. About ten years later cat enthusiasts set out to make this hybrid cross a legitimate breed of domestic cat.

-Scottish Fold

In 1961 a shepherd by the name of William Ross spotted the first known Scottish Fold cat at a farm near Coupar Angus in the Tayside Region of Scotland, Northwest of Dundee. Ross asked the owners if he could have one of the kittens, and proceeded to develop the breed from the original, Susie, a white barn cat. The unique thing about this cat was that her ears folded forward and downward on her head. The resulting look gave the impression of a "pixie", "owl", or "teddy bear" that has captured the hearts of many American cat fanciers and judges.

Scottish Folds come in two types: folded ear and straight (normal) ear. The folded ear is produced by an incomplete dominant gene and is the result of a spontaneous mutation.

Over the last two decades the Scottish Fold has developed a look all its own...even though allowed outcrosses include American Shorthairs and British Shorthairs. The Fold does not necessarily resemble the American Shorthair’s hard, powerful "working cat" body and squared-off muzzle. Nor does it look like the British Shorthair’s massive, compact body, short legs, and flat planed top-head. The Fold, instead, is a medium cat with a rounded, well-padded body and a short, dense, and resilient coat. It has large, round, broadly spaced eyes full of sweetness; well-rounded whisker pads and a short nose with a gentle curve in profile.

Scottish Fold kittens are born with straight ears. At about three to four weeks of age, their ears fold...or they don’t! It is usually around eleven to twelve weeks of age that the breeder can determine the quality (pet, breeder or show). Presently, only folded ear cats of Scottish lineage are permitted in the show ring, and naturally, every breeder wants to produce show cats. The straight ear progeny of Scottish Folds, nevertheless, are invaluable to the breeding program.

Due to the rarity of the Fold, AND due to the fact that not every kitten born has folded ears, it is very hard for the supply to keep up with the demand.

Scottish Folds are hardy cats, much like their barnyard ancestors. Their disposition matches their sweet expression. They have tiny voices and are not extremely vocal. They adore human companionship and display this in their own quiet way.

Scottish Folds adapt to almost any home situation and are as comfortable in a room full of noisy children and dogs as they are in a single person’s dwelling. They don’t usually panic at shows or in strange hotel rooms, and they adjust to other animals extremely well.

Scottish Folds come in any and all colors possible with the exception of those showing evidence of hybridization resulting in the colors chocolate, lavender, the Himalayan pattern, or a combination of these and white.

When inspecting a Fold for purchase, be sure to determine the flexibility of the tail and check the feet and legs. There must be no hint of thickness or lack of mobility due to short, coarse legs or splayed toes. Determination of tail flexibility can be accomplished by moving your hand down the tail in a VERY GENTLE, slightly upward-arching movement. With proper flexibility, this arching movement can be made without discomfort to the cat. Again, when doing this PLEASE BE GENTLE!

The Scottish Fold is an undemanding cat. A clean environment, proper nutrition, and generous doses of love are its only requirements.

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-Selkirk Rex

One of the newest natural breeds, this naturally curly cat originated from a housecat, Miss DePesto of Noface, found in a shelter in Montana. Given to Persian breeder, Jeri Newman of Montana, who bred her to PhotoFinish of Deekay, a black Persian. "Pest" produced three curly kittens out of six – proving that unlike the Devon Rex and Cornish Rex, Pest's mutation was dominant. Because the gene is dominant, curly kittens can be born in the same litter with straight haired kittens.

The Selkirk Rex is being developed as a large, heavy boned cat rather like the British Shorthair in conformation. The head is round with no flat planes. The curl is plush and loosely curled, showing up more dramatically on the longhair. Selkirks are healthy and sturdy. They are an incredibly patient, loving, and tolerant cats. From the moment of birth, curly kittens can be distinguished from their straight haired littermates by their curly whiskers. The whiskers are brittle and may break as they grow longer. The whiskers and hair do not change as the cat grows older; if they are curly at birth, they are curly as an adult. Even if the coat later shows less curl, the cat has the curly gene and retains the curly whiskers.

A mature male or spayed female will have the best coat. In the best examples, the curling is strongest on the flanks, tummy and around the neck, with some curl on the back. The back of a Selkirk has the least amount of curl.

Selkirk Rexes come in two coat lengths: short and long. Each length has a separate division within the judging process. The care of the two different lengths of coats is similar to that of either a short or longhair coat. Brushing in either case should not be as frequent if the curly coat is to be maintained. Shampoos that do not coat the hair but leave the cat feeling silky and clean are the best to allow the hairs to curl.

This breed is not for the uptight organized pet owner. These cats' humans must be prepared to take all kinds of hair jokes such as: "The cat with the bad hair day." "Why don't you groom your cat," or "This cat is our dip and dry variety." Such comments lead to the hidden secret: they make you laugh. Although they may not always win the beauty pageant, they always win the title of Miss Congeniality.

Selkirk Rex owners are consistently stopped by people with anxious hands wanting to pet and feel this soft, plush pet. The fortunate humans are those who can take these live teddy cats home for cuddles and hugs.

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-Seychellois

History: A new breed created in England in the 1980s The coat s white with splashes of color. There are both short-haired and long-haired versions. The eyes are blue. The markings are of three types:
1. white with a colored tail, and large patches of color on the head, body and legs;

2. white with a colored tail, and small patches of color on the head and legs;

3. almost entirely white, with a colored tail and only small patches of color on the head.

While reading reports on cat gene surveys in the late 1970s Patricia Turner of the Scintilia cattery in Milton Keynes, England, became inspired by a wish to re-create the coat patterns reported by Professor Paul jaffe in his study of the cats of the Seychelles. This became possible in 1984 when she acquired two Persian cats - both tortie and white - which became the foundation cats of the new breed. One stayed at the Scintilla cattery and the other went to Julie Smith's Dovetrees cattery. As the generation numbers advanced the breeding programme evolved towards a Seychellespatterned cat of Orlental body type and Siamese blue eyes. The foundation females were Patricia Turner's Snowdrop Gentle Pedilase and Julie Smith's Dovetrees Tarantella and the foundation males were Scintilla Pastelle Royale and Champion Scintilla Caramellian of jamais. Both males were Siamese. Progeny from matings between these four cats were backcrossed to Siamese and Oriental mates and their progeny were mated like to like to achieve the Seychelles coat pattern. The programme is still continuing and in some lines the fifth generation has been reached. The first Seychellespatterned cats in the programme were Scintilla Félicité, Scintilla Amirante, Scintilia Victoria and Scintilla Thérése. Fécilité and Victoria were the first of the breed to be exhibited In 1989 the Seychellois Cat Society was formed with a founder membership of Derek and Pauline Parsons of the Shalimar cattery, Maureen Trompetto of the Lincret cattery, John Mais of the jamais cattery, Shirley Mizon of the Zelstone cattery and Patricia Turner. Current emphasis upon the breeding of variants by mating back to Siamese in order to improve type rather than on breeding larger numbers of cats eligible for the show bench. Variants are cats of Seychellois breeding but with too much colour for the Seychelles patterns Colors: White with any color or combination of solid colors.Patterns: Mainly white with coloured dashes and splashes of colour occurring randomly on the head, legs and body but always with coloured tails. The patterns are defined as Seychellois Septiéme (relatively)Character: They are extremely intelligent, curious and loving. Their behavior and loyalty often resembles what most people expect of a dog more than a cat, as they follow their owners about, sleeping outside of the door of any room you occupy, that they cannot enter, and amusing themselves with a toy until they can once again be on your lap. Agile, swift, muscular and extremely intelligent, they love to play fetch or to make up other games. They get along easily with other cats and with dogs and yet are independent enough to adjust to periods of being alone. While they still 'talk' , their voices are far softer and they speak only when they have something they feel is important to say. As such, they grow up to make delightful 'watch-cats' often alerting their family when strangers approach or when something seems 'wrong'. They are very alert to their owners and surroundings, but not a hyperactive cat. Rather, they maintain an easy balance of playing and napping depending on the circumstances. Personality: athletic, scatter-brained, demanding and demonstrative

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-Siamese

The Siamese originates from Siam. Which is now modern day Thailand.

Siamese have fascinated folks around the world since they were first officially exported from Thailand, or as it was known then Siam, in the late eighteen hundreds. Their sleek lines, striking color contrast, finely chiseled aristocratic heads, deep blue almond eyes, and short silky coats make them living art. Combine this beauty with acute intelligence, inquisitive personality and a loving nature and you have the essence of the Siamese cat.

The first Siamese to appear in England were a gift from Siam to an ambassador who brought them home. They began appearing in English cat shows almost immediately, and in American shows by the early twentieth century.

Seal points, still the best known variety, were the first to arrive. With their seal brown, almost black extremities and their pale fawn bodies, they were sensational. While chocolate points, with creamy white bodies and milk chocolate legs, tail, mask and ears did appear from time to time, it was the blue point that gained official recognition in 1934. The blue point has a bluish-white body with slate blue points. The chocolate point was recognized next. In 1955 the lilac point followed and completed the breed. The lilac point has pinkish gray points with a white body which makes it most ethereal and delicate in color.

While color is a prominent feature of this breed, structure is also important. The Siamese is a study in length. From the start the breed standard has called for a long, wedge shaped head and elongated body lines. The muscular, tubular body is supported by long legs and graced by a long neck and tail. Paradoxically the short, close lying coat accentuates the long lines perfectly.

The long Siamese head is delineated by an absolutely straight profile and well aligned chin. From the front, the outline of the face presents a smooth wedge with large ears that complete the wedge. The outstanding feature of the head is the pair of deep blue almond eyes (an eye’s width apart) which are set at a slant. If you have been able to resist all the other attributes of this breed, the eyes will captivate you. They radiate intelligence and emotion.

This ancient breed, perhaps the oldest of all our cats, is able to communicate like no other. The Siamese voice is legendary. They speak both with their voice and with their body. They are the quintessential "people" cat, for they love to be in your lap, on your bed, at your table--and in your heart!

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-Siberian Cat

Other Names: Neva Masquerde

Siberians have been around for at least one thousand years as far as recorded history. They were first mentioned in Harrison Wier's book Our Cats and all About Them, which included information about one of the earliest cat shows held in England in 1871. However, finding written information in Russia is fairly difficult. Despite the fact that the Siberian is a natural breed and is the national cat of Russia, its very ubiquity makes it taken for granted rather than worthy of note in Russian literature. Add to this the vast expanse of Russia which encompasses 13 time zones as well as a multitude of ethnic and cultural diversity and you have a cat that seems as difficult to standardize as the country which gave rise to it.

The Siberian was first imported in 1990. Despite it's popularity the Siberian is extremely rare in the United States. Most breeders have waiting lists for their kittens.

The Siberian, considered a semi longhair, has a rich full coat in the winter while the summer allows for a somewhat shorter less dense coat. The Siberian can come in just about every color of the rainbow but because of the rarity of the breed those colors may not be available in your neighborhood.

The Siberian tends to be both a great problem solver and also, rather like dogs, are loyal to their adopted families which is why they are so well suited to the households in which one spouse, usually a husband or significant other, professes to be a "dog person" not a "cat person." Often it is that same "dog person" who is greeted at the door by their Siberian and after being dutifully followed around the house by their Siberian, then decides that one Siberian is simply not enough! Siberians are extremely agile and can leap great distances and heights to "fly through the air with the greatest of ease!" However, their agility also means they usually navigate potentially breakable brick-a-brac without leaving a path of destruction in their wake. Prudence dictates that one would still want to think twice about placing a Ming Dynasty vase on the mantle. A delightful combination of the flying Walenda's and the sleuth "the Pink Panther," the Siberian is a zany mixture of both. Expect the unexpected when sharing your home with a Siberian.

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-Singapura

Singapura is the Malaysian word for Singapore. The streets of Singapore are the origin of this breed. They are nature's combination of both the ticked coat pattern and the dark brown color, both of which are indigenous to South East Asia. The breed was brought into the U.S. in the early 1970s by Hal and Tommy Meadow, expatriates moving home. Early Singapura breeders quickly went to work to establish purebred characteristics such as breeding true, uniformity of appearance, and above all, health and disposition. This careful development of the breed has lead to small numbers of diversified pedigreed cats but one that is widely desired and accepted. Today the breed is worldwide and recognized by most registration associations. In CFA, Singapuras were accepted for registration in 1982 and for championship competition in 1988.

The Singapura's disposition is that of a "pesky people cat," an extroverted, curious, playful but nondestructive cat that insists on helping you with everything. They are very intelligent and interactive with people and remain so even into old age. Disposition is one of their most endearing attributes. If you want a cat geared to "four on the floor," don't consider owning a Singapura.

The Singapura is a smaller than average, shorthaired cat with noticeably large eyes and ears. On first impression, you might think you were looking at some new color of Abyssinian. The pattern is nearly the same but on closer inspection you will note that the only other similarity is the large ears, everything else is different. The light beige coloring is unique and thought by some to be similar to cougars. The tail is normal length, the feet are very small, the body is smaller, of a medium length and should be muscular. Eyes may be hazel, green or yellow but mature eye color is not predicable in kittens. Many veterinarians seeing a Singapura for the first time are apt to think something might be wrong with the kitten since it is so small. The Singapura is slow to develop and will not attain its full size until about 15 to 24 months of age. There isn't much difference in size between mature males and females, females weighing approximately 5 to 6 pounds and males 6 to 8 pounds.

A pet quality cat will usually have cosmetic faults that make it unsuitable for showing or breeding. Some of the most common faults are head length (too long), eyes too close together, visible or non-visible tail faults, lack of complete nose-liner (the dark line around the nose leather), and markings on the outside of the front legs which should be clear of any markings. Additionally, only a limited number of male cats can be used in the breeding programs so only the best male kittens are retained for breeding. Regardless of the reason for a Singapura to be offered as a pet, you will find this cat's intelligence, playfulness and unique appearance captivating from the first time you meet one.

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-Snowshoe

Other Names: Snow Cat, Alaskan Snow Cat

The Snowshoe began as a cross between the American Shorthair and the Siamese in the early 1960s in the United States, producing a sturdy, pointed cat with white markings on the face, chest and feet. It is found in the usual Siamese colors, most commonly seal, chocolate, lilac, and blue in two patterns, mitted and bicolor. It is also found in red (flame), cream, cinnamon, and fawn. American Shorthairs, Oriental Shorthairs, and Siamese are still legal outcrosses.

The Snowshoe is a lively breed that enjoys indoor living. It is affectionate and playful, yet laid back -- combining some of the best personality traits of its parent breeds.

The Snowshoe is still a rare breed.

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-Sokoke

Other Names: African Shorthair

The Sokoke is a long legged moderate-sized cat with a short dense coat without any undercoat. It looks a little like a ocelot having an "African tabby pattern" with ticked hairs in the dark part of the pattern. It's movement pattern can be compared with a cheetahs. They mature very slowly, and only reach maturity at the age 1,5-2 years.

The body is elegant and very muscular, not cobby. High on the legs, back legs a bit higher than the front legs (as seen in many sprinters, e.g. the cheetah). The head looks small compared to the body. The top of the head between the ears is almost flat and has the same width as the base of an ear, with high, angular well-marked cheek bones. Nose medium long and almost straight. Well defined strong chin. Medium ears in harmony with the head but seem larger. Broad at base with slightly rounded tips, tufts are allowed.The base of the ears is parallel with the lines extending from the corner of the eyes. The ears are always in a listening position. The eyes are almond shaped, obliquely placed. Color from various shades of amber to light green, outlined with darker color in accordance with the body color.

The coat is one of the most unusual features of the Sokoke cat. It is shiny and extremely short and elastic, not silky, lying close to the body with no undercoat. It has African tabby-pattern and resembles a blotched tabby, with and "old wood" pattern on the sides, and a sandy ground color. Pattern color varies from warm light brown to very dark chestnut brown almost black. There are absolutely no white hairs on a Sokoke cat.

The tail is long, thin, stiff and whiplike with broad rings. However lately a few "snow Sokokes" has been born. They have the blotched tabby pattern on the body (from cream to greyish beige). There are stripes in the same color all the way up the legs, striped tail and a "masked" face. They are without necklaces and belly spots. All paw pads are black. The eyes are blue. The snow Sokoke has not yet been recognized.

Characteristics and Temperament

Even if the Sokoke looks like one of the wild cats and has retained all the characteristics of the wild cats, does it bond very strongly to its human - independent and loving, but never clinging. It is totally bereft of aggression and only marks with teeth or claws if strongly threatened. All muscles tense if in danger, ready to flee quickly. The Sokoke is a very sensitive cat and swings with the mood of its human. It is active and quite talkative, having a strong voice, it is an independent cat but it much enjoys the company of its' humans. It is a proud and highly intelligent cat and you can communicate at a high level using voice and and body language.

Because they are totally domestic by nature, Sokokes can be kept without permits and licenses normally required in the keeping of wild or endangered species. These little "cheetahs" are totally dependable in personality, they require no elaborate housing facilities, and they are a practical size for a family pet. Qualities that persevere from the wild are: super efficient ears, eyes and whiskers. Camouflaged coats, agile and athletic bodies, a unique self-confidence, and a high level of intelligence. Additionally, the breed strives to preserve genes unknown among the traditional domestic breeds. FIFe's breed council is taking special interest in preserving these rare genes, and have made strict breeding plans for the few breeding cats. They have not been mixed with domestic cats and are therefore totally unique and is by some though to be a completely independent genera.

Being a cat of the rainforest, the Sokoke has a special relation to water and will just swim across any stream that crosses their path, they don't seem to enjoy it but take is as a part of life. Another special characteristic is their hard muscular bodies, rendered even more athletic by their extremely short coat through which every muscle can be seen.

The Sokoke cat thrives in groups and gets along well with other cats.

Is This Breed for Me?

If you want a cat which is playful and interactive, almost "dog-like" in this way, the Sokoke is a terrific breed. They are loving and affectionate and make wonderful but never clinging companions. They love talking and can be quite eloquent, "talking" to you for hours. The noise level of a female in heat can be quite high.

The Sokoke is not a lap cat, but will honor you by sleeping in your lap when it so chooses. It does not enjoy being coddled, but will follow you on equal footing always ready to be petted.

If you're looking for a cat which will spend a great deal of time snoozing peacefully instead of playing, or a placid cat with a great deal of quiet and refined dignity, the Sokoke is not the cat for you.

As the breed is almost extinct it is of great importance that new Sokoke owners take interest in the breed and works to preserve it with careful planned breeding, or showing. When you get a Sokoke you get more than a cat, you get a challenging hobby.

History :

The Sokoke was accepted by FIFe in 1993, as the second breed being accepted by FIFe before the recognition by other cat organizations. There is now two forest cats, the Norwegian and the Afro-Danish Sokoke making their mark on the world of cats. It originates from the Sokoke Arabuke forest on the Kenyan coast, one of the few remaining but rapidly dimishing, rainforests in East Africa.

Historically, we can only find one reference to the Sokoke Forest Cat. This is in the Giriama tribal name for cat "Kadzonzo". The Giriama tribe have lived traditionally around the forest for hundreds of years. All the tribal elders we have known can describe the best of the Sokoke cats perfectly and can differentiate from the three wild genera, as well as the domestic breeds. This is proof of the cats' very close relationship with the old culture. Today's Giriama tend to be ignorant of the Kadzonzo. I believe this is deliberate and has deep sociological reasons.... the modern Giriama do not wish to associate with the primitive, but fairly recent, survival behaviour of the past.

All the older generations discussing Kadzonzo say, " the cat was very sweet to eat". We assume from this it was part of the general diet. The cats were probably eaten in preference to the domestic stock, which represented wealth. The old culture had many forms of survival which are now "unacceptable" to the modern Giriama. Therefore "Kadzonzo" is conveniently forgotten. Indeed the name Kadzonzo is almost an embarrassment to some.

Not much was known about the Sokoke cat before the Kenyan farmer Jeni Slater in 1978 found a litter of kittens in her coconut plantation. Jeni Slater is an experienced horsebreeder and found the kittens so special that she brought them home as pets. Their pattern "blotched tabby" does not exist in East Africa, and their body type is described as "foreign" (tall and slender) whereas the Kenyan housecats are of the "cobby" type and with a much thicker coat.

There is a number of rare species that only exists in the Sokoke forest, but as in many parts of the world the threat to forest habitat by expanding populations is happening here too. The Sokoke bushy tailed Mongoose, the Sokoke golden-rumped Elephant Shrew, the Sokoke Scops Owl are all under threat of extinction. It is therefore not surprising that an unusual feral cat discovered by Jeni Slater caused little or no local interest.

Jeni Slater's story in the history of the Sokoke cat is now paramount. To quote Jeni Slater: "my gardener came to me one morning in 1978 and reported some strange kittens with a mother born in a hollow under a tree in my garden. I went to investigate, and saw, these huge eyes and big ears, and long tail erect and a smallish head with beautiful body markings. I knew immediately that this was something unusual and I therefore took a pair from the litter. With the help of the house staff I hand reared them. I had much experience in hand rearing orphaned animals during my farming days in Molo Kenya".

As mentioned before Jeni Slater had little local interest for her find. It was pure luck that the Slaters were professional fishermen, and therefore feeding a growing number of Sokoke cats was not impossibly expensive.

The second piece of good luck for the survival of the Sokoke Cat was that Gloria Moeldrup was a fishing client of the Slaters, Jeni invited Gloria to see the cats, and she also like Jeni recognized a unique makeup, pattern and behaviour of the cat. In 1984 Jeni expressed fear that the breed might not survive in Kenya due to many administrative difficulties. Gloria Moeldrup then decided to move a breeding pair to Denmark, where in 1984, Sokoke cats where shown for the first time in Copenhagen and in 1985 "Jenny" and "Mzuri" had their first litter.

From then on came the long journey to recognition, in 1990 Gloria Moeldrup imported three more cats from Watamu to strengthen the breeding stock. The aim to start with was to breed enough cats to keep the breed alive and healthy.

Then in November 1992 the judges committee of FIFe looked at nineteen Sokoke Cats representing five generations. There are now (1997) about 20 breeding Sokoke cats in Denmark, one cat in Italy and three in Holland.

Special Medical Concerns:

The first generations of Sokoke cats in Denmark seemed very prone to the infections that our native cats handle with ease or at least easily with the help of vaccinations. But current generations seems to have overcome this problem and has now no generic health problems. It just has to be remembered that the coat is very short and bereft of any undercoat so the cat chills easily.

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-Somali

Other Names: Serenti, Longhaired Abysinnian

The Somali is a breathtaking cat to behold. It bears an uncanny resemblance to a little fox, with its large ears, masked face, full ruff and bushy tail. The Somali’s wild, feral look is what immediately draws fascinated attention.

Somalis are intelligent cats, and while active, they have soft voices and are usually quiet. They communicate with human family members through soft mews and possess a charming trill. They are extroverts and very social. Possessed with a zest for life, they love to play, solicit nuzzles and pats, and thrive on human companionship. Somalis have bursts of energy several times a day, at which time they will take off through the house, jumping into the air. They toss balls and toys in the air, fetch them back and begin the game anew. Tail and back arched, the Somali will run sideways like a monkey, and even hold objects and food the way a monkey does. Adept at opening cupboards and drawers, Somalis sometimes hide inside their secret areas. Many Somalis can manipulate faucets, and they love to play with water.

Somalis are well-proportioned, medium to large cats with firm muscular development. Their body is medium long and graceful, with a medium-length soft and silky coat that requires little grooming. The coat is usually one to three inches long, with shorter fur across the shoulders. The tail is fluffy and full; their feet have tufts between the toes. Their large, almond shaped eyes range in color from intense green to rich copper. The Somali has an agouti, or ticked, coat with four to twenty bands of color on each hair. The ticked fur mantles the cat with harmonizing solid color on its underside. They come in four recognized colors: ruddy, red, blue and fawn.

Somalis have small litters of three to four kittens, which develop slowly. They reach their full size at about eighteen months of age.

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-Sphynx

Other Names: Canadian Hairless

In 1966 a domestic cat gave birth to a hairless kitten in Toronto, Canada. It was discovered to be a natural mutation and the Sphynx cat, as we know it today, came into existence. This cat and a few other naturally hairless cats have been found worldwide. These have magically been produced by Mother Nature and are the foundation for this unusual breed. Cat breeders in Europe and North America have bred the Sphynx to normal coated cats and then back to hairless for more than thirty years. The purpose of these selective breedings was to create a genetically sound cat with a large gene pool and hybrid vigor. This is a very robust breed with few health or genetic problems.

The Sphynx is not always totally hairless; there can be a fine down on the body, which makes the cat feel like a warm peach. Some light hair is often present on the nose, tail and toes. The texture of the Sphynx skin has been likened to suede, a hot water bottle, or a heated chamois. They can be registered in a wide variety of cat colors. The color is seen in the pigment of the skin and the few hairs that they do have. One of the questions most asked is "Don't they get cold?" Well, of course, if it is too cold for you it will be too cold for a hairless cat too. However, these cats are smart enough to find a warm human, dog or cat to curl up with or they will get under your bed covers.

Sphynx are rare and most breeders have a waiting list for their kittens.

T

-Tabby

Kinds of Markings

I'm going to post them soon

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-Tonkinese

Other Names: Chocolate Siamese

The Tonkinese blends the best features of its ancestors into one beautiful, medium-sized cat that is remarkably dense and muscular. Whether appearing in the coat pattern of its Burmese predecessor, with sparkling gold-green eyes, the pointed pattern of its Siamese ancestor, with glittering blue eyes, or the "mink" coat pattern seen in the show ring, with its unique aqua eyes, the Tonkinese is an intelligent, gregarious cat with a sense of humor. These cats are firmly convinced that humans were put on earth to love them; these are the cats that know they belong. Although new to modern competition, this is the same breed depicted in "The Cat-Book Poems of Siam" during the Ayudha Period (1358-1767), and imported to England in the early 1800s as "Chocolate Siamese." In the United States, Tonkinese and Burmese can trace their beginnings back to Wong Mau, a small walnut colored cat imported to California by Dr. Joseph Thompson in 1930.

The colorful personality of the Tonkinese make them ideal companions. They will take possession of your lap and shoulder, and they will supervise your activities. They are warm and loving, highly intelligent, with an incredible memory and senses that are akin to radar. They are strong willed, and their humans are wise to use persistent persuasion in training them. They are naturals at inventing and playing games, using favorite toys to play fetch, and delighting in games of tag with each other. Of course hide ‘n seek is a favorite game, which they play with humans as well as other Tonks. They become your "door greeter" and will happily entertain your guests. They have been described by enthusiastic owners as part puppy (following their owner around the house), part monkey (their "acrobatics" are legend!), and can sound like an elephant running through your house when they choose. In short: they quickly take over and run your house and your life! Their affectionate ways are impossible to ignore, and they quickly endear themselves to family and visitors.

Caring for Tonkinese is as easy as feeding a well-balanced feline diet, clipping their nails weekly (providing a scratching post and insisting they use it is also imperative), using a rubber brush to groom them, and of course the all important visit to the vet for check-ups and inoculations. These are indoor only cats, and a thorough inspection of your home prior to your Tonks’ arrival, to make certain screens and doors are secured, will help insure they remain indoors. "Cat proofing" your home, much as you would for a two-year old human on the loose, is bound to save you frustration. Toys and an interesting cat tree will help keep them occupied when you have other things to do besides playing with your Tonk. Working humans find two Tonks will keep each other company as well as lessen the mischief one bored Tonk can get into.

Tonks wear a rainbow of colors, and no matter which color in whatever coat pattern you may choose, be assured you are joining an enthusiastic fan club of admirers of this breed. You are about to embark on the most joyful experience of your life.

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-Toyger

Other Names: California Toyger

The Toyger is a designer cat. It is designed and bred with the demands of modern apartment life as a human companion foremost in mind. Glittered, pelted, dramatic pattern appeals to both the high-tech glamour and nature-loving, wild dreams of city-caught people while the laid back, easily trained character of these cats make them a joy to live with.

This breed is of and for the computer age. Computer imaging help breeders determine what they want , how far off a cat might be and how to improve the progeny. Email and lists make friendships blossem, communication of ideas and photos immediate, cross country mating matches arranged, etc. etc. Webpages like this allow breeders and groups to inform the public and further better understanding of breeds and pet choices.

General:
The Toyger cat is a medium sized, short haired domestic cat reminescent of a toy tiger. Designed with a modern city life with humans in mind, it is an intellegent and willing companion animal, active and highly trainable. Color and markings are that of a satin toy while type suggests a big cat---long bodied and tailed, large boned and muscular, round ears, large chin-leading muzzle with broad nose tip. This cat will one day resemble a tiny, shiny toy tiger on leash or playing with the kids.

Temperament and Companionabilty---
Loving, intellegent, laid-back but active and alert. Highly trainable. Gets along well with other animals and children. Some lines like other cats better than other lines at this time. Some lines are noisy at this time.

A Toyger must have head lights and tigery stripes!!! ...not ordinary domestic mackerel pattern but modified to be more of a braided or stretched rosette.A Toyger is not a Toyger without an impression of "tiger" --- golden to dark orange body with dark stipes and circular face and/or whited pattern on face and undersides of body --- being developed hair by hair, slowly but surely.

Coat---
glittered, soft, short, plush, ---and sculpted (two level---markings longer and stand higher than ground), if we can develop it further.

Color---
brown tabby only (variations of black on tan thru browns, mahogany-red, orange, gold to tans): clear, rich, bright, high contrast colors
* virtually black markings are preferred but will range to tan. Note that most kittens orange somewhat more as they mature.
* golden-orange colored dorsal ground color is preferred but will range from dark brown to yellow tan in today's cats.
* whited ventral ground is preferred. A lighter tummy and inside of the legs, etc. of today's cats will progress to a virtually white ground over the course of years of development.

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-Turkish Angora

   * This is an odd- eyed Turkish Angora.

Other Names: Angora, Ankhara, Angola

Cat fanciers are enjoying a resurgence of a delightful breed once thought to be extinct — the Turkish Angora. In recent years, due to new importation from Turkey, the breed's country of origin, the Turkish Angora has again taken its place in the roster of the pedigreed cats of the world.

Many people have used the term Angora to signify any longhaired cat. However, the only pedigreed cats that carry the name "Angora" are the Turkish Angora. In the early part of this century, the Angora was used indiscriminately in breedings with Persians, finally disappearing from the scene as it became incorporated with that breed, known for a time simply as ‘Longhairs.'

The Turkish Angora is a pure, natural breed of cat, originating probably from the Manul cat domesticated by the Tartars. They migrated eventually to Turkey, where they are regarded today with great reverence, as one of their national treasures. In 1962, the Angora was rediscovered by American servicemen in the Ankara Zoo in Ankara, Turkey, in a controlled breeding program dating back forty-five years.

Turkish Angoras make wonderful pets. They are among the most intelligent of the cat breeds. They love their owners with a single minded devotion. They are long, elegant, finely boned creatures with smoothly pointed faces, who adore running and playing with wonderful grace and a great zest for living. Their single, silky, medium length coats need only occasional grooming to look good. The Turkish Angora is now generally available in a full range of colors, having any shade and pattern, except those that denote hybridization such as lavender, chocolate or the pointed pattern. They occur commonly, in most solids, tabbies, smokes and parti-colors. White is still the most popular color, though this is rapidly changing, as more and more breeders realize the beauty of this elegant breed in a variety of exciting shades.

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-Turkish Van

The cat known in the United States as the Turkish Van is a rare and ancient breed that developed in central and southwest Asia, which today encompasses the countries of Iran, Iraq, southwest Soviet Union and eastern Turkey. "Van" is a common term in the region that has been given to a number of towns, villages and even a lake - Lake Van - so it is no surprise that the uniquely patterned cat native to the region was named the "Vancat" by the residents. They were first brought to England in 1955 as the Turkish cats, but this was later changed to Turkish Van to avoid confusion with the Turkish Angora. Although the breed has an ancient lineage, the Turkish Van is a relative newcomer to the United States, arriving in 1982. They are considered regional treasures in their homeland, and are not readily available for export to other countries. Even in areas where the breed has been known for centuries, they are still relatively rare.

The breed was first brought into Europe from the Middle East by returning crusaders, and has been known by a variety of names over the centuries such as the white ringtail and the Russian longhair. A common misconception is that the Turkish Van is simply a color variation of the better known Turkish Angora. In reality, the Van and the Angora are distinct breeds that developed in geographically distant regions of Turkey. When seen together, the differences in type, size, boning and coat are readily apparent.

The coloration of the Turkish Van, which is considered by many to be the original breed to carry the piebald gene, calls for a white, semi-longhaired cat with colored markings restricted primarily to the head and tail. Other piebald cats that have been selectively bred for many generations to achieve similar markings are said to be "van-patterned" after the breed that originally sported it. The coat lacks an undercoat and has a very unique cashmere-like texture that makes it water-resistant. This brings us to another interesting feature of this breed - they love water and in their native region they have been termed "the Swimming Cats."

The Turkish Van takes three to five years to reach full maturity and is a large and agile cat of substantial strength. They are very intelligence as well as curious and make very rewarding companions in the right home. The breed is a healthy one and the unique coat does not lend itself to matting, so they require little grooming.

Y

-York Chocolate

Overall Appearance - The York Chocolate is a medium to large cat, big-boned and muscular. Some Siamese ancestry is assumed, as the head is a rounded wedge, longer than it is wide. The large, pointed ears tilt forward; the almond-shaped eyes may be green, gold, or hazel. Yorks are solid or bicolored in chocolate or lilac. The medium-long, glossy coat is silky and close-lying, with a thin undercoat that is not prone to matting. Yorks have a plumed tail, toe tufts, and a modest neck ruff.

Personality -The York Chocolate is a true lap cat, one that is hhappy to be held and cuddled. This is not to imply that Yorks are sedate and docile; in fact they are active, intelligent, and curious, constantly monitoring the activities of their owners.

Breed Fact - The owner of a New York State goat dairy had a farm cat named Blackie that in 1983 presented her with a litter of kittens. One of these kittens, named Brownie, had her own litter of kittens, and so appeared a longhaired black male named Minky. Minky and Brownie produced Teddy Bear and Cocoa. Their owner, who was running out of names for brown cats, noticed a consistency in body and coat type among the kittens and initiated a breeding program.

if you didnt find the breed you are looking for, look at this list (I'm going to add this on to the

GLOSSARY

With so many different registries with different views, the exact status of some breeds is hard to define. I have used the following terms:Alternative Name: An alternative name still in use; might have been a proposed name while breed was being developed.
Archaic Name: Historical name no longer used.
Crossbred: Informal variety always created by crossing 2 other breeds.
Current: A currently recognised breed (means recognition by at least one registry in the world)
Experimental: Early stages of development. Some have provisional or preliminary recognition, but others do not seek or achieve registry recognition.
Extinct: No individuals of the breed exist e.g. Mexican Hairless
Fake: An attempt to decieve the public by representing a cat as something it is not.
Fictional: "Breeds" such as cabbits, squittens, Chinese Hairless and Egyptian Hairless that exist only in fiction or folklore (but people believe they are real).
Local Variety: Unrecognised distinct strain of cats found in a particular locality e.g. Buckfast Blue.
Mutation: Distinct strain that occurred through mutation; some are incorporated into similar-looking breeds (e.g. different Rex strains with the same gene mutation).
Proposed: Not even off the drawing board!
Unknown: Reported by reputable source, but with no other information, possibly a one-off.
Variant: Purebred cats that do not meet the breed standard due to hidden genes e.g. longhaired Bengals. Some are recognised in other countries under a different name.

A further region-specific classification is out of the scope of this list: Banned. In parts of Europe certain breeds are prohibited because their breed traits are considered harmful deformities. These include Manx/Cymric (spinal problems related to tailless mutation), Munchkin (dwarfism), Scottish Fold (skeletal problems), Sphynx (hairlessness is considered detrimental to the breed) and Blue-Eyed Whites in any breed (deafness).