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Himalayan
Category: Breed Profiles
Bengal Cats: Living Room Leopards
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Bengal cats are a popular but somewhat controversial designer breed. They are meant to look like little leopards without the dangers of having a wild cat in the house. Their coats are stunningly beautiful, and Bengal enthusiasts say they make delightful and unique pets. However, some people argue that Bengals are wilder than a pet should be because they are a hybrid breed. Today we’ll dive deep on this intriguing cat breed.
Neither Tigers, nor Leopards, nor Just Cats
The Bengal breed is credited to California breeder Jean Sudgen Mills, who crossed a female Asian Leopard Cat–a small, leopard-spotted wild cat–with a male black domestic shorthair in 1963 [2, 3, 5, 9, 11, 13, 15]. She was not the first to create this type of hybrid cat, however. The earliest mention was in 1889 by Harrison Weir in his book Our Cats and All at Them [13]. References to Asian Leopard Cat x Domestic Cat hybrids cropped up periodically over the next half-century [9, 13].
Contemporaneously with Jean Mills, Dr. Willard Centerwall bred these hybrid cats to study their genetics and immune systems [11, 13]. Mills used some of Centerwall’s cats to start a breeding program [11, 13]. Early Bengal breeders also incorporated Egyptian Maus and later added Siamese for more color variation [1, 5, 8, 11]. Mills and other early breeders experienced some challenges, including the unpleasant surprise that the hybrid toms were sterile [1, 15]. But the second generation was all fertile, and eventually there were enough Bengals that these days, most Bengals are bred from other Bengals [13, 15]. In fact, using Asian Leopard Cats in current breeding programs is typically discouraged [3].
Jean Mills petitioned persistently to have the Bengal recognized as a breed, and in 1983 The International Cat Society first accepted the Bengal as an experimental breed [11, 13, 15]. Today, six cat fancy registries accept Bengals, and they are a well-established global breed [11].
Many people think that the name Bengal comes from the Bengal tiger [1, 13]. There is even a myth that Bengal cats are descended from Bengal tigers, which would be impossible [6]. They are no more related to tigers than any other housecat [6]. The name comes from the scientific name for the Asian Leopard Cat, Prionailurus bengalensis [1, 5, 13, 15].
Bengal Cat Characteristics
Bengal cats are assigned a filial generation number (F1, F2, F3, F4….) depending upon how closely related they are to an Asian Leopard Cat [1, 9]. A F1 Bengal is the kitten of an Asian Leopard Cat and a domestic cat [1, 9]. A F2 Bengal has an Asian Leopard Cat as a grandparent, a F3 Bengal has an Asian Leopard Cat great-grandparent, etc. [1, 9]. Bengal cats are considered domesticated from F4 on; only these can be registered and shown [2, 5, 6, 11, 13-15].
Appearance
Bengals are a medium-large breed, with the toms getting up to 15 pounds (6.8 kg) [4, 9, 11, 14]. They have long, lean, muscular bodies [2, 4, 9, 11, 15]. Their long and powerful legs make them incredible jumpers and climbers [4, 5, 9]. They can jump up to six feet–straight up or across [5, 6]!
Of course, their stunning spotted coats are what Bengals are most known for. Bengals come in six basic colors, but the cat fancy only recognizes brown, snow, silver, and sometimes charcoal [1, 8, 11, 15]. Blue and black/melanistic are non-standard colors [1, 8].
Brown is the most common color, with markings that may be black, brown, or reddish-brown [4, 8]. Snow Bengals inherited the temperature-sensitive albinism trait from the Siamese and come in lynx, mink, and sepia varieties [2, 5, 8]. Silver Bengals are white or gray with black markings [8]. The smoky black charcoal trait in inherited independently of coat color, so Bengals of any color may have it in addition to their base color [8].
Blue comes from the dilute trait, which is also inherited independently of coat color [8]. These cats are a steely gray with darker gray-blue markings [8]. Some breeders are attempting to gain championship recognition for blue Bengals [8]. The black/melanistic Bengal looks like a black panther, with black markings nearly invisible on a black background [8].
Bengals can either be spotted or marbled [1, 2, 5, 8, 9]. Their spots can be simple dots or a variety of rosette patterns like those seen on leopards, ocelots, and other wild felids [1, 5, 8, 9, 15]. The marbled coat pattern consists of dark swirls all over the cat’s coat [1, 8]. Some Bengals have both patterns [8]. Bengals can have green, gold, or–in the case of snow Bengals–blue eyes [8, 11].
Personality
Bengals are extremely intelligent and extremely active cats [1-6, 9, 11, 14]. They need ways to keep their minds and bodies active because boredom leads to mischief [1, 5, 6, 9, 11]. These are not cats that do well in home where they will be left alone for long periods of time [3, 15]. They need lots of playtime and attention [3, 5, 9, 11, 15]. However, they are very trainable and often do well with learning to walk on a leash, so they are well-suited to active people who want a cat that’s as adventurous as they are [1, 2, 5, 6, 9, 15].
Additionally, Bengals are very affectionate [1-3, 9, 14, 15]. They tend to have a favorite person who they become attached to and will love forever [9]. If well-socialized as kittens, Bengals are typically good with dogs, children, and people in general [4, 5, 9, 14, 15]. They don’t always like other cats, however [1]. They can be quite territorial, so if you want a multi-cat household, it may be best to get a pair of Bengals who already know each other or introduce the Bengal to a house where other cats are already established [1]. Bengals do not tolerate change well and are prone to stress and problem behaviors if you don’t ease them into big changes [1, 3, 9].
A fun and unusual thing about Bengals is that most of them love water [1-6, 9, 11]! This comes from the Asian Leopard Cat which lives near rivers [4]. Bengals are known for playing with their water dishes, following their people into the bath or shower, and going swimming if they get half a chance [1, 4, 5, 6]. Providing water games can be a good way to keep your Bengal entertained–just be prepared to clean up the splashes after [1, 4, 9, 11].
Welcome to the Jungle
It is important that anyone adopting or purchasing a Bengal or other hybrid cat realize that they have different needs than the typical housecat [3, 6, 7, 14]. Because they are so smart and so energetic, Bengals need a lot of toys, things to climb, and interactive playtime, or they will become destructive [3, 5, 6, 9, 11]. Many Bengals enjoy running on wheels [3]. Also some Bengals don’t digest dry or grain-based cat food very well which is unpleasant for everyone [3, 15]. Bengal Rescue recommends feeding Bengals a grain-free wet food or raw food diet.
Bengals should be indoor-only cats, both because they are likely to be stolen and because they are particularly hazardous to local wildlife [1, 9, 14]. Bengals love the outdoors, though, so taking them for walks and/or providing a catio for outside time is a good idea [9, 14]. It really helps get some of their energy out.
Speaking of the Bengal’s high prey drive and excellent hunting skills, you have to be very careful about keeping small animals (birds, lizards, hamsters, etc.) in a home with a Bengal [1]. The cat doesn’t know those are pets, too; they just see prey. With their love for water, Bengals are especially interested in aquarium fish [1, 11]. So don’t let your Bengal near your smaller pets. Cat-proof extensively, more than you think you have to. These crafty kitties can get into places you wouldn’t expect.
F1-F3 Bengals, also known as Foundation Bengals, are more like wild animals than housecats [14]. The International Bengal Cat Society explains that “owning one of these cats is akin to owning a large parrot or an alligator as a pet” [14]. Only consider taking in one of these cats if you are prepared to make major adjustments [14].
Special Health Concerns
There is a myth that Bengals are immune to Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) [6, 11]. Asian Leopard Cats are immune, but Bengals did not inherit this trait and need immunizations for FeLV like all domestic cats [6, 11]. Bengal cats are also prone to a few illnesses. Bengals have an elevated risk of developing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), the most common type of heart disease in cats [1, 2, 9, 15]. They can have some eye problems as well: progressive retinal atrophy, which causes premature blindness, and cataracts [1, 2, 9, 11, 15]. And there is a higher rate of Erythrocyte Pyruvate Kinase (PK) Deficiency among Bengals [2, 15]. This metabolic disorder disrupts their red blood cells [2].
Responsible breeders will test their cats for genetic diseases [1, 15]. If you get a Bengal from a breeder, make sure to ask about their genetic testing policy, and have your veterinarian thoroughly examine your new cat for any signs of disease as well.
Bengals are more likely to be sensitive or allergic to anesthetics, so discuss this with your veterinarian if you have a Bengal who needs to be aestheticized for any procedure, including spay/neuter surgery [1, 9]. Allergic reactions to anesthetics can be fatal.
Why are Bengal cats illegal in some places?
Bengals and other hybrid cats are banned in some locations, including New York City and Hawaii [9, 10]. Restrictions in some places only apply to earlier generations of Bengals, i.e. F1-F3 [9]. There are several reasons for these regulations.
Bengals are considered particularly dangerous to native wildlife because of their high prey drive and superior hunting skills [10]. This is part of the reason they are not allowed in Hawaii [10], where the native birds have been severely depleted by invasive species, including domestic cats. The other concern in Hawaii is that cats can carry the parasite toxoplasmosis, which is dangerous for Hawaiian monk seals [10]. That is true of all cats, though, not just Bengals.
Connecticut banned Bengal cats in 1996 citing concerns that the domestic cat rabies vaccine may not be effective for the hybrid breed [12]. Some places ban hybrid cats simply because regulators consider them wild animals [12]. There are also concerns that continuing to breed hybrid pet cats could put strain on populations of threatened wildcats, as some breeders continue to go back to the Asian Leopard Cat to make new lines of Bengals or to the Serval to make new lines of Savannahs [7].
If you are considering adding a Bengal cat to your family, check your local exotic pet regulations to make sure that they are permitted as pets in your area. And remember to always look at adopting first. Organizations like Bengal Rescue (Western US), Bengal Rescue Australia, Great Lakes Bengal Rescue (US), East Coast Bengal Rescue (US), and the Bengal Cat Association (UK) can help you find the living room leopard that’s meant for you.
Fun Facts
- The New Zealand Cat Fancy Registry also recognizes long-haired Bengals, also known as Cashmeres. [2]
- Bengals are low-shed and low-dander, so while not strictly hypoallergenic, some people with cat allergies find them easier to be around. [3]
- Some Bengals have a special trait called “glitter” which makes them sparkle or shimmer in the light. Glitter is caused by scattered colorless hairs throughout the coat that reflect light, giving the cat’s fur a glittery appearance. [2, 4, 5, 15]
- Bengals cost between $1,500 and $10,000 USD from a breeder, depending upon sex, generation, and color/pattern. F1 females and snow Bengals are the most expensive. Back in 1990, when Bengals were relatively new, a woman once paid $50,000 USD for one! [1, 5, 14]
Sources
- Avery, T. (2023, March 29). The joys and hazards of living with a pet Bengal cat. Pet Helpful. https://pethelpful.com/cats/The-Joys-and-Hazards-of-Living-with-a-Bengal-Cat
- Basepaws. (n.d.). Bengal cat. https://basepaws.com/a/cat-breeds/bengal-cat
- Bengal Rescue. (2023). Adopting your first Bengal? https://bengalrescue.org/resources/adopting-your-first/
- Bengals Ramazan. (n.d.). Features of the Bengal cat. https://www.gatobengali.com/bengal-cat-features.php
- Brody, K. (2017, April 2). 15 things you didn’t know about the Bengal cat. Yummy Pets. https://www.yummypets.com/mag/2017/04/02/97710/15-things-you-didnt-know-about-the-bengal-cat
- Great Lakes Bengal Rescue. (2015, November 7). What is a Bengal? https://www.greatlakesbengalrescue.com/whatis.html
- Horton, H. (2022, February 17). UK could ban part-wild hybrid cats after social media fuels boom in popularity. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/feb/17/uk-could-ban-part-wild-hybrid-cats-after-social-media-fuels-boom-in-popularity
- Jaccard, L. (2018, January 6). Bengal cat coat: Colors and patterns. Bengal Cats. https://bengalcats.co/bengal-cat-colors-patterns/
- Jimerson, D. (2021, April 20). Bengal. Daily Paws. https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-breeds/bengal
- KHON 2. (2018, November 16). Exotic Bengal cats confiscated in Honolulu. https://www.khon2.com/local-news/exotic-bengal-cats-confiscated-in-honolulu/
- Kruzer, A. (2022, June 18). Bengal cats. The Spruce Pets. https://www.thesprucepets.com/bengal-cats-1238154
- McCarthy, K. E. (2000, July 11). Bengal cat laws. Connecticut General Assembly. https://www.cga.ct.gov/2000/rpt/2000-R-0680.htm
- The Bengal Cats. (2019). What is the origin of the Bengal cat? https://www.thebengalcats.com/pages/what-is-the-origin-of-the-bengal-breed
- The International Bengal Cat Society. (n.d.). Bengals as pets. https://www.tibcs.com/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=902066&module_id=469648
- The International Cat Association. (2019, October 28). The Bengal breed. https://www.tica.org/breeds/browse-all-breeds?view=article&id=1521:the-bengal-breed&catid=48
Published August 28th, 2023
Toyger: Tiny Toy Tigers
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Toyger is a portmanteau of “toy” and “tiger” [6, 7, 10]. If there were such a thing as a toy tiger like there are toy poodles, this is probably what they would look like. Toygers are a new and very rare designer cat breed meant to have the exotic appearance of a tiger with the disposition of a domestic cat [2, 7-9].
History of the Toyger
To be clear, Toygers are not at all related to actual tigers [1, 4, 7-10]. That would be impossible. They are related to Asian Leopard Cats, however, because they are a combination of Bengals, which are hybrid cats, and mackerel tabby Domestic Shorthairs [1, 2, 5-11].
The breed was created in the 1980s in California by Judy Sugden, whose mother, Jean Mill, created Bengals [2, 4, 6-8]. A local exotic animal sanctuary with wild cats among its rescues got her thinking how incredible it would be to have a housecat that looked like one of those [5]. Then, Sugden noticed that one of her Bengals, Milwood Sharp Shooter, had spotted tabby markings on the sides of his head [1, 2, 6-9]. Domestic tabby cats don’t usually have stripes there, but tigers do, and this got Sugden thinking–what if she could breed a housecat that looked like a tiger [1, 2, 7-9]?
Sugden began a breeding program with a hefty Bengal named Milwood Rumpled Spotskin and a tabby Domestic Shorthair named Scrapmetal [2, 6, 7, 9]. She also traveled to India and brought home a stray tabby cat from Kashmir with just the right spotted markings between his ears [2, 4, 6-9]. She named him Jammu Blu and added him to the nascent breeding program [2, 4, 6, 7, 9].
With very careful selective breeding, Sugden and a small number of other breeders have developed a breed with tiger-like traits. Sugden calls the slow process “squinch-by-squinch development” [4]. Over thirty years in, they still aren’t finished perfecting the Toyger [2, 5, 10]. Nonetheless, The International Cat Association (TICA) recognized Toygers as a breed in 1993 and accepted them for championship status in 2007 [1, 2, 6-10]. TICA remains the only registry that fully recognizes Toygers as championship-eligible [4], but the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF), a U.K. registry, gave Toygers preliminary status in 2016 [2].
Breed Characteristics
Appearance
Toygers are medium-to-large cats with long, low, muscular bodies [1, 2, 6-9]. Combined with their long toes, their body shape gives them a rolling gait like a tiger [1, 5, 6, 8]. They carry their long tails low like a big cat, too [2]. Toygers have a broad head with small, rounded ears and small-to-medium eyes [2, 4, 7]. Their signature trait, of course, is their tiger-like pelt.
Toyger fur is dense and plush. All Toygers are tabbies, with bold, vertical stripes that have broken and braided patterns just like tiger stripes [1, 4-8]. TICA and GCCF only recognize the “brown mackerel tabby” Toyger, which is the black-on-orange type that looks like your typical tiger [2, 9]. They also have some white on their undersides and gold “glitter” [1, 4, 6-9]. Glitter is a genetic trait that gives a cat’s coat a, well, glittery appearance. A few breeders do have Toygers in other colors, including silver/white Toygers meant to resemble white tigers [10].
Personality
The Toyger is an active, outgoing, and intelligent cat [1, 2, 5-9]. They need a lot of playtime and cognitive stimulation to make sure they don’t get bored [1, 5-7]. Happily, they are quite sociable and trainable, so there are plenty of ways you can entertain each other [1, 6, 8, 9]. Toygers are even recommended for running agility courses [1]! Toygers often enjoy learning tricks like fetch and going on walks on a leash [1, 6-8]. They can usually make friends with anybody, including children and other pets, so a Toyger can make a good family pet [1, 2, 5-7].
Keeping Company with Tigers
A Toyger’s short coat can pretty much take care of itself, but these kitties do shed quite a bit, so occasional brushing might be good just to keep the free-floating fluff to a minimum [2, 5, 7-9]. These cats need something to do when you’re out of the house, so make sure they have plenty of toys and maybe another pet to play with [8]. These smart kitties particularly enjoy the challenge of puzzle toys [6]. And Toygers are affectionate cats that love to spend time with their families, so make sure that you have that time to spend with them every day [1, 8]!
Special Health Concerns?
Because Toygers are such a new breed, and there are still very few of them, no one knows for sure what sort of breed-specific health problems they might turn out to have [1, 2, 7, 8]. So far, they seem to be generally healthy cats. Some breeders have reported adverse reactions to the feline leukemia vaccine in their cats, but this hasn’t been substantiated [2]. Toygers may have an increased risk for heart murmurs [7-9]. A 2016 study in the Journal of Veterinary Medicine discovered a serious developmental brain disorder in a family of Toygers [3].
Affected Toygers had underdeveloped or absent brain structures as well as enlarged ventricles (the fluid-filled cavities in the brain) and cysts in their brains [3]. They behaved surprisingly normally for all that, only seeming to be “clumsy” [3]. The disorder is a recessive genetic disorder, which means kittens must inherit it from both parents, and it is was tied to the trait of short, round ears that breeders select for in Toygers [3]. The researchers didn’t figure out why the brain problems and the ear shape were connected [3], and other Toygers with similar ears have not been shown to have the same problem. It remains to be seen if this condition was unique to this family of Toygers or if it is a more widespread problem that has not become obvious yet.
Adopting a Toyger
There are very few Toygers in the world because this is such a new breed, and there still are not many breeders. Add to that the fact that the breed is still under development, and you have a recipe for some very expensive cats. $5,000 for one Toyger kitten is pretty typical [4, 10]. The even rarer silver/white Toyger kittens are more expensive than that, up to $10,000 [10].
Because Toygers are descended from Bengals (albeit somewhat distantly) which are hybrids of domestic cats and Asian Leopard Cats, some locations consider Toygers wild animals [4]. Toygers may be banned outright or require a permit in your location, so be sure to check the local laws at all levels before you bring one home [4].
Remember, it’s always better to adopt than shop. Check out breed-specific rescues like Great Lakes Bengal Rescue to see if they have any Toygers that need a home! Also, responsible breeders will adopt out adult cats that don’t quite fit the breed standard or have been retired from breeding.
Fun Facts
- Toygers love water! They might sneak into the shower with you. [6]
- Every Toyger’s stripes are totally unique. [6, 7]
- Some Toyger breeders donate a portion of profits from kitten sales to tiger conservation. [5]
Works Cited
- El’Sprite Toygers. (n.d.). Toyger information. OzToyger. https://oztoyger.com.au/toyger-info
- Governing Council of the Cat Fancy. (n.d.). Toyger. https://www.gccfcats.org/getting-a-cat/choosing/cat-breeds/toyger/
- Keating, M. K., Sturges, B. K., Siso, S., Wisner, E. R., et al. (2016). Characterization of an inherited neurological syndrome in Toyger cats with forebrain commissural malformations, ventriculomegaly and interhemispheric cysts. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 30, 617-626. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/jvim.13836
- Marvar, A. (2020, May 27). You thought your cat was fancy? She wanted a cat that looked like the tiger. Meet the Toyger. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/27/style/toyger-fever.html
- Scherr, A. (Producer). (2011, April 9). Tonkinese, Nebelung, Serengeti, Korat, Cats Gone Wild, RagaMuffin, Toyger (Season 3, Episode 3) [TV series episode]. In Cats 101, Powderhouse Productions.
- Sorocco, E. (2020, July 2). Toyger. Catster. https://www.catster.com/cat-breeds/toyger
- Syufy, F. (2022, June 30). Toyger cat: Cat breed profile, characteristics & care. The Spruce Pets. https://www.thesprucepets.com/toyger-cat-profile-554213
- Taylor, C. and Guthrie, C. (2021, March 24). Toyger. Daily Paws. https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-breeds/toyger
- The International Cat Association. (2020, April 13). Toyger breed. https://tica.org/breeds/browse-all-breeds?view=article&id=1868
- Urban Exotic Cats. (n.d.). The Toyger cat. https://urbanexoticcats.com/the-toyger-cat/
Published May 14th, 2023
Selkirk Rex: The Cat in Sheep’s Clothing
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Random mutations are the genesis of some of the most interesting cat breeds, including the Selkirk Rex. There are several rex breeds, distinguished by their curly coats. The Selkirk Rex is sometimes called “the cat in sheep’s clothing” due to its particularly wooly appearance [6, 7]. This is a relatively new breed, and still uncommon [1-4], but they charm everyone they meet with their lovely curls and warm personalities.
Humble Origins
In 1987, a shelter cat in Montana, USA gave birth to a litter of kittens [1, 3, 4, 6, 7]. This would be an unremarkable event except that one of them had curly fur [1-4, 7]. The little blue-cream-and-white she-kitten came to the attention of a local Persian breeder named Jeri Newman, who got excited about the possibility of a new rexoid mutation [1-3, 6, 7]. Newman adopted the kitten and named her Miss DePesto because she was always pestering people for attention [7]! When Miss DePesto grew up, Newman bred her with one of the Persians, a black tom named PhotoFinish of Deekay [1-3, 7]. Three of their six kittens had curly hair [1-3, 7].
This showed that Miss DePesto’s mutation was a dominant trait–a cat would only need one copy of the mutation to have curly fur. The Devon Rex and Cornish Rex mutations are both recessive, requiring two copies, so Newman definitely had something new on her hands [3, 7]. She developed the Selkirk Rex breed from Miss Depesto’s bloodline, incorporating not only Persians but also British Shorthairs, American Shorthairs, and Exotic Shorthairs [1, 6]. The breed began to be recognized by cat fancy organizations in the early 1990s [4, 7].
Breed Characteristics
Appearance
The hair, of course, is the star attraction. Selkirk Rexes can occasionally be born with straight fur if they inherit a wild-type (non-mutant) allele from both parents, but this doesn’t happen often because the mutation has already become almost fixed in the population [5]. A trait becomes “fixed” in a population when all individuals have the same genetic makeup for it. So most Selkirk Rexes have curly coats, including curly whiskers, both of which are apparent at birth [1-7]. The coat texture can change somewhat during the first months of life and doesn’t reach it’s full potential until kittens are 8-10 months old, however [1]. Their adult coat is plush and has loose curls [1-4, 6, 7]. Unlike other rex breeds, Selkirk Rexes have a full coat with all three layers [4]. They may have short or long fur [1-4, 6, 7].
The mutation that causes Selkirk Rexes to have curls is in the KRT71 gene which is important for producing the protein keratin in the hair follicles [5]. Different mutations in this same gene cause the recessive rexoid mutation in Devon Rexes and the nearly-hairless condition of Sphynx cats [5].
Due to their ancestry among Persians and breeds with similar builds, Selkirk Rexes are stocky cats [1-4, 6, 7] with moderately shortened muzzles [1]. They come in all colors and patterns [1-4, 6, 7].
Personality
The Selkirk Rex is a friendly and affectionate cat that loves spending time with people [1, 2, 6, 7]. They are laid-back and relaxed, but they aren’t as like to be lap cats as Persians–these kitties like to play, too [2, 6, 7]! They are generally patient and tolerant, and they get along well with children, other pets, and strangers, as long as they are well-socialized [2, 6, 7]. These cats just want to be the life of the party! But a mellow party, please. Selkirk Rexes make good pets for families [2, 6]. They can get bored if left alone for very long or not played with regularly, so keep that in mind [6].
Selkirk Rex at Home
A Selkirk Rex doesn’t have too many special requirements, but that beautiful coat does need some attention. Loose hair can become caught in their curls and lead to mats [2]. However, too much grooming can make their coat frizzy [2, 6]. If you have curly or wavy hair of your own, you’ll be familiar with that problem. Combing their fur weekly with a wide-toothed comb is the best way to work out tangles and loose fur without making kitty’s hair stand on end [2, 6]. Some Selkirk Rexes need baths occasionally as [2, 6]. If this is the case for your cat, make sure you use a light shampoo that won’t weight down and flatten their curls [2, 3]. Ask a veterinarian, groomer, or breeder for recommendations. After a bath, towel dry your Selkirk Rex, then let their coat air dry [2].
Health Concerns
Selkirk Rexes are fairly healthy, like most breeds that originated with random-bred cats. However, there is a lot of Persian and other purebred cats in their ancestry, and they have inherited a propensity toward a few health problems from that side of the family [2, 6]. Selkirk Rexes are a bit prone to polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a genetic kidney disorder that kittens are born with which leads to kidney failure later in life [2, 6]. Fortunately, there is a screening test for PKD, and responsible breeders will make sure they do not breed cats who carry it [2].
The Selkirk Rex is also more likely to develop Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), the most common form of heart disease in cats [2, 6]. Hip dysplasia, which is common in Persians, can be a risk as well [2, 6].
Because Selkirk Rex is a new and still rare breed, they don’t often arrive in animal shelters, but it’s always better to adopt than shop. You might be surprised–lost and abandoned purebred cats go to shelters and rescues everyday. You can also look at places like Selkirk Rex Rescue & Retired Breeding Cats, where fanciers are trying to find good homes for their favorite breed.
Fun Facts
- The Selkirk Rex is the only breed named after a real person. Jeri Newman chose the name “Selkirk” in honor of her stepfather. [6]
- Sterilized mature Selkirk Rexes have the highest quality coats. [3, 7]
- The birthplace of the Selkirk Rex, in the form of Miss DePesto, was the Bozeman Humane Society [1]. The area is now served by Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter.
Works Cited
- Alderton, D. (1992). Cats: The visual guide to more than 250 types of cats from around the world. Dorling Kindersley: London.
- Brown, J. (2022, July 14). Selkirk Rex: Cat breed profile, characteristics & care. The Spruce Pets. https://www.thesprucepets.com/selkirk-rex-cat-breed-profile-4774250
- Cat Fanciers’ Association. (n.d.). About the Selkirk Rex. https://cfa.org/selkirk-rex/
- Edwards, A. (2006). The ultimate encyclopedia of cat, cat breeds, and cat care. Hermes House: London.
- Gandolfi, B., Alhaddad, H., Joslin, S. E. K., Khan, R., et al. (2013). A splice variant in KRT71 is associated with curly coat phenotype of Selkirk Rex cats. Scientific Reports, 3, 2000. https://doi.org/10.1038/srep02000
- Jimerson, G. and Guthrie, C. (2022, January 26). Selkirk Rex. The Daily Paws. https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-breeds/selkirk-rex
- The International Cat Association. (2018, August 13). Selkirk Rex breed. https://www.tica.org/breeds/browse-all-breeds?view=article&id=875:selkirk-rex-breed&catid=79
Published January 8th, 2022
Updated June 14th, 2023
Ragdoll: The Most Laidback Cat You’ll Ever Meet
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One of the biggest, fluffiest cats is also the cuddliest and most relaxed. The Ragdoll is an easy-going snuggle bug known for going limp like a ragdoll when held. They are a consistently popular breed, despite being quite expensive and new to the cat fancy [4, 12]. Let’s meet these friendly giants.
The Cat from Space?
The Ragdoll’s origins are fairly mundane, although there are some creative conspiracy theories about them. A woman named Ann Baker developed the breed in Riverside, California in the early 1960s [4-9, 11, 12]. Baker began with a long-haired, white stray she-cat she found in her neighborhood and named Josephine [5-9, 11, 12]. Baker added other domestic longhairs that she owned or found to the breeding program, selecting for gentle temperaments, large size, and long colorpoint coats [4-8]. She recruited other breeders to help expand her new breed [1, 4, 11]. Persians, Birmans, and Burmese may have been added to the program [7, 8].
Ann Baker named her creation the Ragdoll for their tendency to relax limply when picked up [6, 7, 12]. However, she had increasingly eccentric ideas about why the cats behave this way. She claimed that Josephine only had “normal” kittens until she was hit by a car and had to be taken to a veterinary center where Baker said Josephine’s genes were altered [4, 11]. All the litters she bore afterwards, allegedly, had the Ragdoll temperament. The stories only got stranger, incorporating space alien involvement, CIA experiments, and human-to-cat gene splicing [2, 6].
We can’t say why Ann Baker said those things, or if she truly believed them. It is public knowledge that the other Ragdoll breeders she had recruited started to distance themselves from her and developed the breed to show quality without her [4, 6, 11].
Breed Characteristics
Appearance and Patterning
Ragdolls are big kitties, weighing 10-20 pounds (4.5-9 kg) with females typically smaller than males [4-9, 11]. Ragdolls have long, heavy-boned bodies [1, 6, 11]. Their paws are tufted, and their tails are plumed [6]. Ragdolls all have blue eyes [1, 4-9, 11]. Their fur is semi-long, soft, and silky [4-7, 9, 11]. The fur is longest on their necks, creating a ruff [1, 6, 9].
Ragdoll cats come in four coat patterns: colorpoint, mitted, bicolor, and van [1, 4-8, 11, 12]. They can be any color and can also be lynx (tabby), tortoiseshell, or both [4-6, 8, 11, 12]. Colorpoint cats are darkest on their face, feet, tail, and ears. Mitted Ragdolls have a colorpoint pattern except their paws are white, giving the appearance that they’re wearing white mittens [1, 4-8, 11, 12]. Bicolors are white on all four paws, underbelly, chest, and an inverted V on their face [1, 4-6, 7, 11, 12]. Vans are mostly white with full color only on the ears, tail, top of the face mask, and sometimes scattered on the body [5, 12]. Not all cat associations recognize the Van pattern.
Personality
Ragdolls are very people-oriented and affectionate [4-6, 8, 11, 12]. They love to cuddle and spend time with their humans [4, 6, 8, 9, 11]. They are famously gentle and docile [2, 5-7, 11]. Though they’re reputation for flopping about like a plush toy may make them seem lazy, they actually aren’t. While it’s true that Ragdolls are not an active breed per se, they are quite playful [6, 11]. Some even enjoy learning tricks and games like fetch [4-6, 11, 12].
Ragdolls tend to be “floor cats,” in the words of the Cat Fanciers’ Association [4, 5]. They usually prefer being on or near the ground and aren’t much for climbing, high jumps, and feats of aerial acrobatics [4, 5, 6, 12]. That doesn’t mean they don’t need any space to themselves, though! It just means a Ragdoll will usually prefer something shorter like a scratching post or hideaway box.
Ragdoll Myths
1. Ragdolls are hypoallergenic.
Because their pelt lacks an undercoat, Ragdolls don’t shed as much as most cats [4-6, 9]. Because of this, there is a myth that they are hypoallergenic. However, it is cats’ saliva and dander that cause allergic reactions in people with cat allergies [9]. Less shedding may mean those allergens aren’t spread around the house quite so much, so some allergy sufferers might find Ragdolls easier to be around [9]. But there’s no guarantee. Therefore Ragdolls are not considered a hypoallergenic breed [4, 9].
2. All Ragdolls go limp every time you pick them up.
The breed’s name ensures that it’s reputation precedes it. Many people are under the impression that there is a special Ragdoll mutation affecting the nervous system that causes the Ragdoll flop [2]. However, the truth is that Ragdolls were simply bred to be so relaxed and friendly that they just melt when given affection [2]. Not all of these cats will ragdoll like that, though [2]. Every cat is an individual, and every interaction is unique.
3. Ragdolls do not feel pain.
This is an odd but persistent myth that reportedly goes all the way back to Josephine. The theory goes that because she gave birth to the first Ragdoll kittens after being hit by a car, the kittens and their descendants do not feel pain [1]. Medically, that is ridiculous. I suspect the docile and tolerant temperament of the cats made people think they were insensitive to pain, and people made up a reason why that would be the case. This is completely false, however. Ragdolls may be willing to put up with a lot, but they feel pain and discomfort just as much as any other cat [1, 12].
Living with Ragdolls
Ragdolls are considered a low-maintenance breed. Their fur isn’t prone to matting, thus requires only regular combing [4-7, 9, 11, 12]. The lack of undercoat can cause some Ragdolls to build up grease in their fur, so they need occasional baths [4, 6]. There are professionals who do that if you’re feeling intimidated.
This is a breed that gets along with everybody. They love people, are patient with children, and get along with other animals, including dogs [4, 6, 9, 11, 12]. In short, Ragdolls are great family pets. Because they are calm, cuddly, and not super active, they can be good pets for seniors who need some company [4]. They are soft-spoken cats and not very talkative [6, 8]. This can make them a good option for apartment living where a loud cat might bother the neighbors [8].
Ragdolls do need a lot of attention and are prone to loneliness [4]. If you want an independent cat that won’t mind being left home alone a lot, this is not the breed for you. A Ragdoll is likely to meet you at the door, follow you around, and try to participate in everything you are doing [4, 5, 6, 8, 12]. They just want to be your best friend.
Health Concerns
Ragdolls are pretty healthy cats, probably due to their origins among random-bred cats, but there are a few problems they have a genetic predisposition to. Like other large breeds, they are prone to obesity, so their food intake needs to be monitored carefully [9]. They also have an elevated risk of developing Feline Infectious Peritonitis [6].
Ragdoll cats have a predisposition to urinary tract problems, especially bladder stones [4, 6, 9]. Making sure your Ragdoll stays well-hydrated is important for prevention [9]. Finally, Ragdolls have a unique risk for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the most common form of heart disease in cats [3, 4, 6, 9, 10]. There is a mutation of the myosin binding protein C3 gene prevalent only in the Ragdoll breed that makes them more likely to develop HCM [3, 10]. Cats with two copies of the mutation are at much greater risk [3]. Fortunately, there is now a genetic test for this mutation, called MYBPC3 R820W, that enables breeders to choose not to breed cats that carry it [3, 6, 9, 10].
If you are considering bringing a Ragdoll into your home, remember that even purebred cats end up in shelters and rescues. Look first at breed-specific rescues such as Ragdoll Rescue USA or Merlin’s Hope Ragdoll Rescue in Texas, as well as your local shelter.
Fun Facts
- One name considered for the breed early on was Cherubim. [7]
- Ragdoll cats are slow to mature. They take 4 years to finish growing! [1, 5, 6, 11, 12]
- A Ragdoll named Frank and Louie was the longest-living Janus cat, or two-faced cat. Despite his rare congenital deformity, Frank and Louie lived to be 15 years old. [8]
Works Cited
- Alderton, D. (1992). Cats: The visual guide to more than 250 types of cats from around the world. Dorling Kindersley: London.
- Becker, M. & Spadafori, G. (2006). Do cats always land on their feet? 101 of the most perplexing questions answered about feline unfathomables, medical mysteries, & befuddling behaviors. Health Communications, Inc.: Deerfield Beach, FL.
- Borgeat, K., Casamian-Sorrosal, D., Helps, C., Fuentes, V. L., et al. (2014). Association of the myosin binding protein C3 mutation (MYBPC3 R820W) with cardiac death in a survey of 236 Ragdoll cats. Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 16(2), 73-80. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvc.2014.03.005
- Braaksma, H. & Guthrie, C. (2022, July 13). Ragdoll. DailyPaws. https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-breeds/ragdoll
- Cat Fanciers’ Association. (n.d.). About the Ragdoll. https://cfa.org/ragdoll/
- Cattime. (n.d.). Ragdoll cats. https://cattime.com/cat-breeds/ragdoll-cats#/slide/1
- Edwards, A. (2006). The ultimate encyclopedia of cat, cat breeds, and cat care. Hermes House: London.
- Fawcett, K. (2022, May 5). 7 facts about Ragdoll cats. Mental Floss. https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/78233/8-friendly-facts-about-ragdoll-cats
- Fratt, K. (2022, June 27). Ragdoll cat: Breed profile, characteristics, and care. The Spruce Pets. https://www.thesprucepets.com/ragdoll-cat-breed-profile-4583144
- Meurs, K. M., Norgard, M. M., Ederer, M. M., Hendrix, K. P., et al. (2007). A substitution mutation in the myosin binding protein C gene in ragdoll hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Genetics, 90(2), 61-264. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ygeno.2007.04.007
- The International Cat Association. (2018, August 13). Ragdoll breed. https://tica.org/breeds/browse-all-breeds?view=article&id=868:ragdoll-breed&catid=79
- Thornton, K. C. (2018, January 16). The Ragdoll cat: All about this fascinating cat breed. Catster. https://www.catster.com/cats-101/about-the-ragdoll-cat
Published September 11th, 2022
Updated June 14th, 2023
Bombay: Parlor Panthers
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There is something a little bit wild and untamed about cats. For some time, cat fanciers have been inspired by that wildness to breed cats that look like their undomesticated kin. The Bombay is one such breed, intended to look like a tiny black panther. Despite the family resemblance, these friendly felines are much more at home in a cozy bed than an exotic jungle.
A Long Way from India
The cat fancier who conceived of breeding mini-panthers was a woman named Nikki Horner who lived in Louisville, Kentucky, USA [1-5, 7, 8]. She began breeding sable Burmese and black American Shorthair cats together in the 1950s [1-3, 5, 7]. Horner named her new breed the Bombay after the city in India, now known as Mumbai, as a nod to the country’s black leopards [4-7].
Another line of Bombay cats was started in the United Kingdom that crossed Burmese and British Shorthairs [1, 6]. Although they are still considered Bombays, they look a bit different from the ones that come from the American breeding program [1, 6].
The Patent Leather Kid with the New Penny Eyes
The only color Bombays come in is black, and they are black all over–whiskers, paw pads, and nose leather, too [2, 6, 7]. Their coat is short, dense, and has a shine like patent leather [1-8]. Their eyes vary from gold to deep copper [1-8]. The Bombay is a muscular, medium-sized cat with a round head and short muzzle [1-8]. Their ears are rounded at the tips [1, 6, 7].
The Bombay personality is that of a total attention sponge [2-8]. They are real extroverts who get along well with all sorts, including children and other pets [2-5, 7, 8]. Because Bombays are so social, they can get stressed and lonely when left alone for long hours [4, 7, 8]. Fortunately, they are happy to play with another cat or a different animal friend.
The Bombay is a smart, playful kitty who likes to learn tricks, play games, and solve puzzles [3, 4]. They often enjoy playing fetch and going for walks on a leash [2-4, 7]. This is not a highly active breed that will keep you up all night, but they certainly appreciate some quality playtime [2-4]. They are in fact quite the lap cat and love a good cuddle [2, 4, 5, 8].
Pampering Parlor Panthers
Bombays are a pretty easy breed to care for. Their short, low-shed coats require very minimal grooming, just the occasional brushing to get rid of loose hair [3, 4, 7]. They are more prone to obesity than most cats, so it’s important to keep their food intake measured and monitor their weight carefully [3, 4, 7]. They also have a genetic propensity toward gingivitis and dental disease, so brushing their teeth and providing dental treats are good ideas [7].
The Bombay is slightly flat-faced, which makes them prone to excessive tear production and sinus and breathing problems [3, 4, 7]. They also have somewhat higher rates of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the most common form of heart disease in cats [3, 4]. On the whole, however, Bombays have a rather low incidence of health problems and are considered quite hardy for purebred cats.
The Bombay is a rare breed that can be hard to find. They may still end up in shelters or need to be rehomed, though, so check with your local shelter or with Bombay and Burmese breeders to see if a cat is in need of adoption before trying to buy one.
Fun Facts
- Bombays tend to reach puberty early yet don’t finish growing until they are almost two years old [3].
- Bombay kittens can be born with tabby stripes that disappear as they grow up [1].
Works Cited
- Alderton, D. (1992). Cats: The visual guide to more than 250 types of cats from around the world. Dorling Kindersley: London.
- Bombay. (n.d.). VCA Animal Hospitals https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cat-breeds/bombay
- Bombay. (n.d.). VetStreet. http://www.vetstreet.com/cats/bombay#overview
- Brown, J. (2021, October 12). Bombay: Cat breed profile. The Spruce Pets. https://www.thesprucepets.com/bombay-cat-full-profile-history-and-care-5202250
- Cat Fanciers Association. (n.d.). About the Bombay. https://cfa.org/bombay/
- Edwards, A. (2006). The ultimate encyclopedia of cat, cat breeds, and cat care. Hermes House: London.
- Taylor, C. & Guthrie, C. (2021, October 12). Bombay. DailyPaws. https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-breeds/bombay
- The International Cat Association. (2018, August 13). Bombay breed. https://tica.org/breeds/browse-all-breeds?view=article&id=827:bombay-breed&catid=79
Published April 17, 2022
Updated June 27, 2022
Tonkinese: The Best of Both Worlds
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Tonkinese cats, affectionately known as Tonks, are a crossbreed of two popular color-point cats. They were conceived as a breed that would be the best of both, and their fans say they are exactly that. With origins in Thailand, England, Canada, and New Jersey, these globetrotting cats like nothing more than a welcoming home and a warm lap.
History
It is often said that the Tonkinese was first recognized in The Cat Poems, or Tamra Maew, which may have first been composed as long ago as the 12th century, according to The International Maew Boran Association (TIMBA). However, TIMBA reports that the Tamra Maew does not feature a cat matching the characteristics of the Tonkinese [8]. Instead, the Tamra Maew shows the parent breeds of the Tonkinese: the Siamese and Burmese [8].
Tonkinese cats are a cross between a Siamese and a Burmese, and all of the above occurred naturally in Thailand to begin with [8]. Tonks were probably imported to Britain in the 1880s as “chocolate Siamese,” but they were not recognized as a separate breed [2, 3, 10, 11]. The first time Tonks were intentionally bred was during the 1950s and early 1960s [1-3, 6, 9, 10]. Cat fanciers Jane Barletta of New Jersey and Margaret Conroy of Ontario collaborated to establish the breed [2, 7, 10]. The Canadian Cat Association was the first to recognize the breed in 1971, using the standard written by Barletta [10].
Breed Characteristics
Appearance
Tonkinese cats have an appearance that is intermediate between the two parents breeds, although their traits vary along a spectrum from more Siamese-like to more Burmese-like. Tonks have a color-point pattern, like both parent breeds, but they can have three different variations of color-point patterning. This is because Siamese and Burmese cats have two different partial, temperature-sensitive albinism genes that both give them color-points [6]. Siamese cats have two copies of the recessive cs version of the gene which causes high-contrast color-points [6]. Burmese cats have two copies of the recessive cb version which causes low-contrast color-points, almost a solid-colored pelt [6].
Because Tonkinese cats are a cross between these two breeds, they can have three combinations: cs cs, cb cb, or cs cb [6]. If they have the cs cs genotype, their pattern will look like a Siamese cat’s, and this is called “point” in Tonks [6]. If they have cb cb, they will have the Burmese pattern which is called “solid,” although it isn’t quite a solid color [6]. The cs cb genotype produces a coloration called “mink,” which is the preferred coloration in Tonkinese [6]. It has a darker body color than a Siamese but lighter than a Burmese.
Eye color in Tonkinese is coordinated with their pattern. Point cats tend to have blue eyes like Siamese, and solids have chartreuse eyes inherited from the Burmese. Minks have striking aquamarine eyes. [2, 3, 7, 9] Coat color is even more variable. There are four traditional show colors: platinum/lilac, champagne/chocolate, natural/black, and blue [2, 3, 5, 6, 9]. However, the breed can also come in other colors and even have tabby and tortoiseshell points [1, 4, 7].
The Tonk body type is intermediate between the svelte, angular Siamese and the stocky Burmese. They are slim yet muscular, with a head that is gently wedge-shaped. [1, 4, 7] Their muzzle is short with an angle to the nose that comes from the Burmese side [1, 4]. Their fur is short, silky, and dense [1-4, 7, 9, 11]. Purrfect for petting!
Personality
The Tonkinese is a highly social and affectionate breed [1-3, 5, 7, 9, 10]. They are very playful but also love to snuggle [2, 3, 5, 7, 10]. They do not, however, like to be alone [2, 3, 5, 10]. Fortunately, Tonks tend to get along with everyone, including children and other animals, so if you have another pet to be their friend, they won’t be lonely while you’re away [2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11].
Like their Siamese forebears, Tonks are smart and curious, which can lead them into trouble, especially if they get bored [2, 3, 7, 11]. They are known for their knack for opening doors [11]. Keep these active cats occupied with puzzle toys, plenty of interactive playtime, and maybe even teaching them tricks [2, 5, 9, 11]. They also have some of the talkativeness of Siamese, so be ready for lots of lively conversations [2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 11]!
Tonk Life
Perhaps the hardest thing about caring for a Tonkinese is making sure you catproof the house before you get one [3, 10]. You should do that for any cat, but as Tonks are both active and particularly inquisitive, just moving things to a high shelf may not be enough.
Tonks require very little grooming. Their coat is of a quality that they can pretty much take care of it themselves. However, their pelt can benefit from a weekly brushing to remove loose hair. [1-5, 9, 11] Your clothes and furniture will benefit, as well.
Tonkinese are a generally healthy breed, but there are some health problems that crop up from time to time. Tonks are prone to gingivitis, so it is a good idea to start brushing their teeth as kittens so it doesn’t become a necessary but horrible battle later in life [2, 5, 9]. This breed can also be sensitive to anesthesia [9]. Irritable Bowel Disease is more common in Tonks as well [2, 5]. If you have concerns about your cat’s health, always consult your veterinarian.
Remember, even purebred cats end up in shelters and rescues, so adopt, don’t shop, for your new best friend! If you are in the U.S., this Facebook group is specifically for people looking to rescue a Tonkinese.
Fun Facts
- The Tonkinese was named after either the Tonkin region or the Bay of Tonkin in Vietnam. It has nothing to do with the cat, but the choice of name may have been related to the Vietnam War. [2, 9, 10]
- The largest litter of kittens ever born was to a Tonkinese cat–19 kittens! The average for a queen is 5. [2]
- According to J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World website, the 2nd most popular Patronus is a Tonkinese Cat. This may indicate that the witch or wizard is “a curious and loving person.” [12]
Works Cited
- Alderton, D. (1992). Cats: The visual guide to more than 250 types of cats from around the world. Dorling Kindersley: London.
- Braaksma, H. (n.d.). Tonkinese. DailyPaws. https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-breeds/tonkinese
- Cat Fanciers’ Association. (n.d.). About the Tonkinese. CFA. https://cfa.org/tonkinese/
- Edwards, A. (2006). The ultimate encyclopedia of cat, cat breeds, and cat care. Hermes House: London.
- Fratt, K. (2019, July 23). Tonkinese: Cat breed profile. The Spruce Pets. https://www.thesprucepets.com/tonkinese-cat-full-profile-history-and-care-4694353
- Martino, L. (n.d.). Tonkinese genetics: Color, coat pattern, and eye color. Tonkinese Breed Association. https://www.tonkinesebreedassociation.org/tonkgenetics.html
- The International Cat Association. (2018, August 13). Tonkinese breed. TICA. https://www.tica.org/breeds/browse-all-breeds?view=article&id=884:tonkinese-breed&catid=79
- The International Maew Boran Association. (n.d.). Thai Tonkinese. TIMBA. http://www.timba.org/thaitonkinese.html
- Thornton, K. C. (2017, August 14). Let’s talk about the Tonkinese cat. Catster. https://www.catster.com/cats-101/lets-talk-about-the-tonkinese-cat
- Tonkinese. (n.d.). PetMD. https://www.petmd.com/cat/breeds/c_ct_tonkinese
- Tonkinese. (n.d.). VCAHospitals. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cat-breeds/tonkinese
- Wizarding World Team. (2019, November 25). What your Patronus says about you. Wizarding World. https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/what-your-patronus-says-about-you
Published November 14, 2021
Munchkin: The Pint-Sized Kangaroo Cat
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Most people have seen a dog with stubby legs before. Dachshunds, Corgis, Bulldogs, etc. are all familiar sights. But did you know that there are short-legged cats, too? Meet the Munchkin. No one told them they’re too short to ride. These furry racecars are very new to the cat fancy, but they made a big splash from the very beginning. It wasn’t exclusively in a positive way. What’s the big deal with these little cats? Let’s start at the beginning.
Journey to Munchkinland
No one knows exactly when the first short-legged cat was born. They may have been around for the entire history of domestic cats. The first time they were described, however, was 1944, in England (2, 6, 7, 9, 10). Veterinarian Dr. H. E. Williams-Jones recorded four generations of short-legged cats (2, 7, 10). Interestingly, this feline family had short forelegs but normal-length hind legs (2, 9, 10). Like many other pedigrees, these so-called Kangaroo Cats went extinct during World War II (2, 5, 7, 10).
Short-legged cats were spotted in various locations throughout the twentieth century, however (2, 5-7, 10). Sometimes they would have four short legs, sometimes just the front legs (2). These cats were just a curiosity, mostly among stray and feral populations, until the right cats met the right people. Sandra Hochenedel was a music teacher living in Rayville, Louisiana (5, 7, 8). In 1983, she rescued two pregnant stray cats that had been cornered by a dog (5, 8). She noticed that both queens were rather unusual–they had very short legs.
Hochenedel named the gray queen Blueberry and the black queen Blackberry (2, 5). She gave away Blueberry and kept Blackberry, who gave birth to a litter of both wildtype and short-legged kittens (2, 5, 7, 9). Hochenedel gave one of the kittens, a short-legged tom named Toulouse, to her friend Kay LaFrance in Monroe, Louisiana (2, 5, 10). Blackberry had a few more litters before disappearing (2, 5).
LaFrance kept her cats intact and free-roaming, and Toulouse soon began to sire a sizable population of short-legged cats in Monroe (5). Seeing the little cats proliferate and survive on their own, Hochenedel and LaFrance wondered if they had a new breed on their hands. They named the cats Munchkins after the diminutive people in The Wizard of Oz (1, 5, 8). They wrote a breed standard, established a breeding program, and recruited other breeders (5). The Munchkin was publicly unveiled in 1991 at the INCATS TICA cat show in Madison Square Garden (5). The response was mixed, and TICA refused a request to recognize the breed the same year (5). However, in 1994 TICA changed their mind and accepted the Munchkin into their New Breed Development program (5, 6, 10). TICA accepted Munchkins for Championship status in 2003 (1, 5, 6, 10).
A handful of other cat fancy organizations have accepted the Munchkin since TICA, but the other major groups still refuse to recognize it (5, 8). Some have gone out of their way to ban the Munchkin and any breed like it (5). The Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe) made an addition to their rules forbidding “showing as a breed characteristic a dominant gene resulting in shortened limbs and legs and other physical defects, for example, the Munchkin” (5). It could not be more clear which breed they had in mind. The Munchkin is a breed that cat fanciers don’t seem to find much middle ground on.
Characteristics
Appearance
The defining characteristic of Munchkins is, of course, the legs. Their legs are about three inches shorter than the average cat’s (1). The upper and lower parts of their legs are about the same length (5). The hind legs are often a little longer than the front legs, and Munchkins can be slightly bow-legged (7). There is such a thing as a long-legged Munchkin, believe it or not. Long-legged cats born in Munchkin breeding programs are called non-standard Munchkins. Their short-legged peers are standard Munchkins.
The short legs are the result of a spontaneous genetic mutation. The mutation in the UGDH gene causes abnormal limb development (9). Munchkins end up born with shorter, thicker long bones in their legs (3, 5, 8, 9). The UGDH mutation is a dominant trait, which means that kittens only need to inherit it from one parent to have short legs (1, 4-10).
In the case of Munchkins, they only can inherit it from one parent. While the short legs may be a dominant trait, the same mutation is also recessive lethal (1, 4, 7, 9). This means that if a kitten inherits the mutation from both parents, it dies before birth. This is why Munchkins have small litters and all Munchkins have both long- and short-legged kittens.
To avoid any kittens inheriting the mutation from both parents, standard Munchkins are usually bred either to non-standard Munchkins or to Domestic Shorthair/Longhairs. This has made the Munchkin a very diverse breed. They can be any color or pattern with short or long fur. However, they still have to conform to a breed standard to be a Munchkin. They are not just short cats. They should have a medium-boned body with a back that slopes gently upward toward the tail. The head is a rounded wedge with high cheekbones and a flat forehead. The eyes are wideset.
Munchkins will carry their tail upright when in motion. It should taper to a rounded tip and be the same length as their body. Both shorthairs and longhairs have moderate, resilient fur, much as you would expect for cats recently descended from random-bred strays.
Personality
People often think that Munchkins are sluggish because of their stubby legs, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Munchkins are extroverted and energetic! They love to play, explore, and run like crazy, just like most cats. If a Munchkin wants to check out something that’s a teeny bit beyond their sight, they will sit up on their haunches like a rabbit to get a better look. They are perfectly capable climbers. The short legs do prevent them from jumping as high as other cats, but they can and do jump. And when a cat has a will, they will certainly find a way, so don’t assume they can’t get on top of something.
These sociable cats pretty much like to hang out with anybody. They fit well into homes with children and other pets. In busy households, though, it’s important to keep in mind that Munchkins have a tendency to hoard small objects. If your favorite watch has gone missing, and everyone says they didn’t take it, you might want to check the cat bed. Munchkins are an intelligent breed, so if thievery has become a problem, perhaps some food puzzles or other enrichment activities might help keep your kitty’s mind occupied. Then again, cats will be cats.
Caring for Your Munchkin
You might expect Munchkins to need a lot of accommodations due to their stature, but they usually don’t. Regular food and water bowls should do fine (7). There might be instances when they would appreciate pet stairs to get up somewhere high, but that really depends upon your furniture. Munchkins are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, too. Probably the most important thing is that they have plenty of space to run and play. These cats can work up a lot of speed and take corners like it’s nothing (1, 5, 7, 8). A cluttered floor is no fun for a Munchkin.
Health Concerns
There has been a lot of debate about whether breeding Munchkins is ethical because it perpetuates a deformity. After all, dog from breeds with similar mutations frequently suffer painful health problems. There are cases of short-legged cats that have deleterious effects as a result of their deformity as well (2, 3). With Munchkins, however, this doesn’t seem to be the case.
Munchkins don’t usually have the musculoskeletal problems that short-legged dogs do because the feline spine is built differently than the canine (10). And while Munchkins have a form of dwarfism, the mutation they have doesn’t cause the conditions that other forms of dwarfism often do (4).
Munchkins do have a higher risk of lordosis than other cats (2, 7). Lordosis of the spine–not to be confused with the she-cat mating position also called lordosis–is a condition where the spine curves too far inward. It is often painful and may even put pressure on the internal organs. Conversely, Munchkins have an elevated risk of pectus excavatum as well (2, 7). Pectus excavatum occurs when the breastbone is sunken into the chest, compressing the chest cavity.
As pedigreed cats go, though, Munchkins are quite healthy. The large amount of Domestic Shorthairs and Domestic Longhairs, cat fancy language for “mutts,” in the gene pool probably has a lot to do with that. After all, most if not all Munchkins can still trace their family tree back to Blackberry and Toulouse, two random-bred cats roaming Louisiana on their stubby legs.
Fun Facts
- The shortest living cat, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, is a Munchkin named Lilieput. She is a tortoiseshell from Napa, California, and she stands 5.35 inches (13.34 cm) at the shoulders. (1)
- Paris Hilton has two Munchkins, or “low-rider kitties” as she calls them. Their names are Shorty and Munchkin. (1)
- Munchkins have been bred with other pedigreed cats to create unofficial “Munchkinized” breeds. There are are now short-legged cats with curly hair, hairlessness, curly ears, and smushed faces. One line has been bred to resemble the jaguarundi wild cat. (2)
Works Cited
- Braaksma, H. and Guthrie, C. (2021, April 25). Munchkin. Daily Paws. https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-breeds/munchkin
- Hartwell, S. (2005). Short-legged cats. Messy Beast. http://messybeast.com/shortlegs.htm
- International Cat Care. (2018, October 3). Munchkin. https://icatcare.org/advice/munchkin/
- Lyons, L. A., Fox, D. B., Chesney, K. L., Britt, L. G., et al. (2019). Localization of a feline autosomal dominant dwarfism locus: A novel model of chondrodysplasia. https://doi.org/10.1101/687210 [Retrieved from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory bioRxiv database]
- Munchkin. (n.d.). Petfinder. https://www.petfinder.com/cat-breeds/munchkin/
- Munchkin. (n.d.). Vetstreet. http://www.vetstreet.com/cats/munchkin
- Munchkin cat: Story in a nutshell. (2019, August 16). Basepaws. https://basepaws.com/blogs/news/munchkin-cat-breed
- Sorocco, E. (2017). 11 things to know about the munchkin cat. Catster. https://www.catster.com/cats-101/about-the-munchkin-cat
- Struck, A., Braun, M., Detering, K. A., Dziallas, P., et al. (2020). A structural UGDH variant associated with standard munchkin cats. BMC Genetics, 21. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12863-020-00875-x
- The International Cat Association. (2018, August 13). Munchkin breed. TICA. https://tica.org/breeds/browse-all-breeds?view=article&id=857:munchkin-breed&catid=79
Published July 11, 2021
Russian Blue: Green-eyed Arctic Angels
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The Russian Blue is a very aptly-named cat. They likely originated in Russia, and they are blue. Well, “blue” in the cat fancy sense. Blue is the dilute form of black, caused by a mutation that lightens the cat’s fur. It appears gray or blue-gray. Russian Blues are strikingly beautiful cats, but they’re not just a pretty face. This breed has had to fight for survival from the very beginning.
History
The Russian Blue was a naturally-occurring cat breed that arose in the arctic climes of the Arkhangelsk Isles of Northern Russia [2-4, 7, 8]. At least, that’s the prevailing theory. The breed is old, maybe over 400 years old [1]. Its origins haven’t been pinned down for certain. It is said that there are still wild-living blue cats in the area today, giving credence to the idea [6, 9]. Additionally, the Russian Blue’s thick pelt is thought to be an adaptation to the long and severely cold winters they faced in their native environment [2, 4, 9, 10]. Legend has it that they were hunted in the wilderness for those luxurious, seal-like pelts [6, 7, 10]. We can only hope that it’s just a tall tale.
Merchant ships from the port of Arkhangelsk probably brought the cats to Britain [6, 5, 9-11]. The first of these blue Russian cats was shown at the 1875 Crystal Palace Cat Show in London [4, 8, 9, 11]. Arkhangelsk means “archangel” in English, so it was named the Archangel Cat [6, 10]. At first, the Archangel Cat/Russian Blue was not a cat fancier favorite. At early cat shows, it was categorized with all the other blue cats [1, 4, 6, 9-11]. British judges preferred the look of the British Blue, now blue British Shorthair, so Russian Blues rarely took home prizes [6, 9, 10]. The breed began to come into its own when the GCCF gave the breed a separate classification in 1912 [1, 4, 6, 8-11]. They were first exported to the United States around the same time [1, 2, 4, 8, 9, 11].
Like many pedigreed cat breeds, the Russian Blue nearly went extinct during World War II [5, 6, 9, 10]. After the war, two different versions of the Russian Blue emerged in Europe. In England, Russian Blues that survived the war were bred with British Blues and blue-point Siamese [6, 10]. Scandinavian breeders bred blue cats from Finland with blue-point Siamese to resurrect the breed [6, 10]. North American breeders finally achieved cats everyone could agree on by crossing the two bloodlines [4, 6, 7, 10, 11]. The Russian Blue has increased in popularity since the 1960s and is now a favored pet and show cat breed [2, 4, 7, 8, 10].
Breed Characteristics
Appearance
A Russian Blue’s coat is one of its distinguishing features. As expected, their fur is usually blue, although in Australia and New Zealand the breed standard allows for black and white as well [1, 11]. The blue coloration has a silvery cast due to silver tips on each guard hair [2, 4, 7, 9, 10]. They are solid-colored, but kittens may sometimes have faint tabby markings called “ghost stripes” that fade with age [7, 11]. They have a double coat with a soft, silky texture. It’s so plush, you can draw in it with your finger [7, 10]! In addition to their shimmery, luxurious pelts, Russian Blues are known for their striking green eyes. Kittens’ eyes turn yellow first, then begin to form a green ring around four months of age [2, 10]. By adulthood, their eyes will be green [1, 2, 10].
Russian Blues are medium-sized cats with wedge-shaped heads and long, tapering tails. They are fine-boned and muscular but look stockier due to the thickness of their coats. Their ears are large and set far apart. Their noses and paw pads are blue like the rest of them. Perhaps their cutest feature is their upturned mouths which give them the appearance of a perpetual smile [3, 8-10].
Personality
Russian Blues are a bit introverted. They bond strongly with their people, especially their favorite person, and are very affection and playful. They tend to be shy and nervous with strangers, however, and are likely to hide from them. Russian Blues also don’t mind being alone for long stretches of time if need be. These cats are good at entertaining themselves. They would prefer to play with you, though! Fetch is a favorite game. They’re sensitive to emotions and often react to cheer up or comfort their people. Russian Blues require a little sensitivity in return, though. They are easily startled, so be nice to the scaredy-cat.
With all that Siamese in their ancestry, it should come as no surprise that Russian Blues can be talkers. Oddly enough, though, they talk very quietly, most unlike Siamese. The more they are talked to, the more likely they are to engage in conversation [3, 8, 11].
Cats are known for not liking change and messes, but Russian Blues are extremely displeased by those things. They are naturally cautious, so changes in routine, even small ones, really upset their apple cart. They tend to be very food-motivated, making that especially true of changes to mealtime. And they infamously do not like a messy litterbox. Can you blame them?
Living with an Archangel
Russian Blues are pretty low-maintenance. They require very little grooming. An occasional brushing will do to get the dead hair out of their coat. They are keen hunters, so they need plenty of toys to keep them busy. Because they are independent cats and they usually get along well with children and other pets, so they can be a good option for busy families. It’s important for any children to know that kitty gets scared easily, however.
A Russian Blue needs a predictable schedule. Any changes must be implemented slowly. They also need to have their litterbox cleaned frequently or they might refuse to use it. Russian Blues are also known to be overeaters, if they have the chance, so free-feeding really isn’t an option with this breed. Don’t let them talk you into feeding them scraps or a bunch of treats, either. That precious face can be very convincing if you aren’t careful. Let children and guests know not to give in, either.
Are Russian Blues Hypoallergenic?
There’s no such thing as a cat that straight up does not cause allergies. There are a handful of cat breeds that are considered hypoallergenic because they tend to cause less allergies, however. The Russian Blue is one of them. They produce less of the Fel D1 protein, one of the substances in cats’ skin which causes allergies in some people [2, 3, 8]. They also don’t shed very much [2, 8]. Although cat dander, not cat hair, is the primary cause of allergies, floating cat hair can spread the dander around. That being said, if you are looking for a hypoallergenic cat, don’t rush out and buy a Russian Blue just yet. Allergies are highly variable. A person with cat allergies should spend some time with Russian Blues first to see if they can tolerate the breed before deciding to get one.
Health Concerns
Perhaps due to its start as a natural breed, the Russian Blue is a very healthy pedigreed cat. The biggest risk is obesity, due to this breed’s propensity to overeat [2, 10]. Other than that, they may have an elevated risk of bladder stones [11]. They have some risk of progressive retinal atrophy, a degenerative eye disease, and polycystic kidney disease as well [2]. They really carry very little breed-associated health risk. That’s not to say they can’t get sick like any other cat, of course, so always keep up with your cat’s regular veterinary check-ups.
Fun Facts
- The Russian Blue has also been shown under the names Archangel Blue, Maltese, Spanish Blue, and Foreign Blue. [1, 5, 6, 11]
- Folklore holds that Russians Blues have healing powers or are omens of good luck. [2, 7, 11]
- Legend has it that Russian Blues were favorite pets of the Russian Czars once upon a time. [2-4, 6-8, 11]
- Nyan Cat was inspired by artist Chris Torres’s Russian Blue, Marty. [6]
Works Cited
- Alderton, D. (1992). Cats: The visual guide to more than 250 types of cats from around the world. Dorling Kindersley Limited: London.
- Braaksma, H. (n.d.). Russian Blue. Daily Paws. https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-breeds/russian-blue
- Brown, J. (2020, January 2). Russian Blue cat: Cat breed profile. The Spruce Pets. https://www.thesprucepets.com/russian-blue-cat-4580390
- Cat Fanciers’ Association. (n.d.). About the Russian Blue. CFA.org. https://cfa.org/russian-blue/
- Edwards, A. (2006). The ultimate encyclopedia of cat, cat breeds, and cat care. Hermes House: London.
- Fawcett, K. (2016, September 2). 8 elegant facts about Russian Blue cats. Mental Floss. https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/85227/8-elegant-facts-about-russian-blue-cats
- Johnson, P. (2001, June). The Russian Blue. The Cat Fancier’s Almanac. Retrieved from https://cfa.org/russian-blue/russian-blue-article-2001/
- Pet Care Center. (n.d.). Russian Blue cat information and personality traits. Hill’s Pet. https://www.hillspet.com/cat-care/cat-breeds/russian-blue
- Petfinder. (n.d.). Russian Blue. https://www.petfinder.com/cat-breeds/russian-blue/
- Russian Blue. (2016, July 1). PetMD. https://www.petmd.com/cat/breeds/c_ct_russian_blue
- Russian Blue/Nebelung. (n.d.). VetStreet. http://www.vetstreet.com/cats/russian-blue-nebelung#overview
Published May 9th, 2021
Updated June 14th, 2023
Egyptian Mau: Cat of the Pharaohs
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The art of the ancient Egyptians frequently depicts cats, an animal which they considered sacred. The cats in their artwork bear a striking resemblance to a modern cat breed, the Egyptian Mau. Some believe that Egyptian Maus are actually the direct descendants of those ancient cats, a divine bloodline carried through the feral street cats of Cairo and into these pedigreed beauties. Maybe that’s true and maybe it isn’t. Egyptian Maus are special in their own right, and no cat needs to be told they deserve to be worshipped.
The male cat is Ra himself, and he is called by reason of the speech of the god Sa, who said concerning him, “He is like unto that which he hath made, thus his name became ‘Mau.'”
Egyptian Book of the Dead, 240 BCE
Along the River Nile?
According to legend, the history of the Egyptian Mau goes all the way back to ancient Egypt. Egyptian art and papyri dating as far back as 1550 BCE show similar spotted cats (9). The cats are shown assisting on duck hunts as well as in religious contexts (8, 9). However, we only know for sure that the Egyptian Mau was bred and shown in Europe in the early twentieth century (2, 4, 7, 8). Then World War II broke out, and cat fancy was one of the many things to be interrupted. Many breeding programs fell by the wayside during the war, and at its end very few Egyptian Maus remained (2, 4, 7, 8). The breed needed a hero, but not a knight in shining armor. They needed a princess to save them.
Princess Natalie Troubetskoy (or Trubetskaya) was living in exile in Rome (2, 4, 7, 8, 10). While there, she was given a silver, spotted female kitten (2). In one version of the story, the kitten came from a boy who had been keeping her in a shoebox (2). In another, the Egyptian ambassador to Italy gave her to Princess Natalie (2, 5). The princess named the kitten Baba (2, 8). She loved Baba’s unusual spotted coat. Princess Natalie bred Baba, and Baba had two kittens: a silver female, Liza, and a bronze male, Jojo, both spotted like their mother (1, 10). Princess Natalie immigrated to New York City in 1956 and brought the three cats with her (1, 2, 4, 8, 10). There, she established the Fatima Cattery to breed Egyptian Maus and wrote a breed standard (2, 4, 7, 10).
The Egyptian Mau was well-received, but early breeders faced a serious dilemma. The gene pool was miniscule. Inbreeding was inevitable, and the cats soon began to have problems. Diseases included cardiomyopathy and asthma cropped up (10). Aggressive and disagreeable temperaments were a pervasive problem as well (7, 10). The only solution was to bring more cats into the breeding program. During the 1980s and 90s, cats with a similar type were imported from Egypt and India, including the Delhi Zoo (4, 5, 8, 10). Although Egyptian Maus remain a less common breed, the gene pool is now much larger, and the problems that were pervasive in early breeding lines have largely disappeared (10).
How Egyptian is the Egyptian Mau?
Genetic tools enable all kinds of interesting discoveries. Apparently I’m 0.4% Coptic Egyptian. But how Egyptian is the Egyptian Mau? The long-standing narrative assumes a direct line of descent from African wildcats to ancient Egyptian domestic cats to Egyptian Maus. Studies of the genetic variance between cat breeds and populations of non-pedigreed cats throws a monkey wrench into that story, however.
Genetic studies suggest significant European influences on the Egyptian Mau (4-6, 8). The waters are a bit muddy even here. Egyptian Maus were found to be more closely related to random-bred cats from Turkey and Tunisia than those from Egypt (5). A mitochondrial DNA analysis, which follows the maternal line, grouped Egyptian Maus with the Siamese, Russian Blue, Abyssinian, and Korat (5). Those breeds all have an Asian origin. Later studies using different methods have grouped the Egyptian Mau with Turkish Angoras and Turkish Vans (5, 6). A Turkish origin seems likely, based on the genetic evidence. As little is known about the breed before Princess Natalie revived it, pretty much anything is on the table.
Breed Characteristics
House Cheetahs
The thing that makes Egyptian Maus stand out is their spots. In fact, they are the only* naturally spotted breed of cat. This means that no one selectively bred them to try to engineer a spotted coat. They did it all on their own. Cat fanciers and cat people in general liked how their spotted coats resemble a wild cat. But these kitties aren’t hybrids like Savannahs and Bengals. They just look the part.
Their dark spots cover the body but can vary in shape and size (3, 10). They have “vest button” spots lining their pale undersides (1, 2). Egyptian Maus have a dark stripe running alone the length of their backs and tails (1). Their facial markings stand out as well. An M on their foreheads marks Egyptian Maus as a type of tabby, although you might not think of a spotted cat that way (1-4, 8). In this breed, that M is sometimes called “the mark of the scarab” because it allegedly resembles the pattern on the shell of the scarab beetle (3, 8). Egyptian Maus also have stripes resembling eyeliner running from the outer corner of each eye (1, 2, 4, 8). Their tails have dark stripes and tips (1, 4).
Only three colors of Egyptian Mau are accepted for showing: silver, bronze, and smoke. The silver has black markings on a light gray base. The bronze is thought to most closely resemble the cats of ancient Egypt, based upon the art they left behind (3). It has dark brown or black markings on a light brown base color. The smoke has solid black markings on a black smoke coat, where each hair is white with a black tip. The breed does come in a few other colors, including solids, but only as pets.
The Egyptian Mau is a medium-sized cat with a muscular yet graceful body. The hind legs are a little longer than the forelegs. Egyptian Maus have a flap of loose skin from their flanks to their hind knees which enables their back legs to stretch out farther when running (4, 7-10). Cheetah’s have a similar skin fold. This enables Egyptian Maus to be incredible runners and jumpers (4, 8-10).
Their heads strongly resemble ancient Egyptian depictions of cats. The shape is a rounded wedge with medium-to-large ears set well apart. The eyes are large, almond-shaped, and slant slightly upward. They are a characteristic gooseberry green color. Kittens can take a while to fully develop this eye color, and it sometimes becomes paler with age.
*The only recognized one, that is. There are others, such as the Bahraini Dilmun Cat, but they are not recognized by any cat fancy association.
Personality
Egyptian Maus are fiercely loyal cats. They bond strongly to their person or family. These cats are people-oriented and enjoy spending time with whoever they taken a shine to. They usually don’t like strangers and tend to hide around guests. Socialization at a young age is important to help them be as social as possible. If you adopt an adult Egyptian Mau, don’t be surprised if it takes a while for them to warm up to you. They just need extra patience. The wait will be worth it.
Egyptian Maus communicate quietly and charmingly. They typically use softer vocalizations like chirps and one all their own called a chortle. When pleased, they tread their feet. If excited, they “wiggle tail.” Incidentally, my Joon does this too, and it is truly bizarre. It looks like what cats do with their tails when they’re spraying, but without the spraying. I’m sort of relieved to know other cats do that, too. I digress.
The Egyptian Mau is an active breed. They enjoy games and puzzles, and some even like to play in water. Fetch tends to be a favorite. They can sometimes be possessive, including of their toys, so supervise an Egyptian Mau when they’re playing with a child or another animal until you know what to expect.
Caring for an Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau is not known to have breed-specific health problems anymore. The addition of new, random-bred cats to the breeding population turned it into a very healthy breed. They don’t require extensive grooming, either, just the occasional brushing that any shorthair benefits from. As far as pedigreed cats go, Egyptian Maus are pretty low-maintenance, but there are some things to keep in mind.
While not hyperactive, these are athletic cats that will need plenty of places to climb. They may be good candidates for leash walking to work those long legs. Don’t forget that they are excellent jumpers, so they can probably reach heights that many cats couldn’t. Deprive them of a cat tree at your peril. They are excellent hunters, so playtime that mimics natural hunting behavior–and gets their favorite human involved–is a great way to give them some exercise, too.
Egyptian Maus get along pretty well with children, other cats, and dogs, as long as they are properly introduced. Remember, though, they aren’t fond of strangers, so new pets need to be introduced very carefully and slowly. An Egyptian Mau that wasn’t well-socialized to other animals as a kitten may not be able to cope at all. Proceed with caution. When it comes to small animals, proceed with even greater caution. The Egyptian Mau loves to hunt. Unfortunately, they see pet birds, rodents, etc. no differently than any other prey animal and might kill them (2, 8). If you have any pets that a cat might see as prey, make absolutely sure that your Egyptian Mau cannot get to them.
If you are considering an Egyptian Mau of your very own, try the CFA Egyptian Mau Breed Council Rescue or The Egyptian Mau Club‘s re-homing list. You can also check with your local shelters. Purebred go to the pound, too.
Fun Facts
- The word “mau” comes from the Middle Egyptian “mjw,” meaning both “cat” and “sun.” (3, 6)
- Egyptian Maus often don’t lose their baby teeth until their permanent teeth have already come in. This means, sometime between four and seven months old, they can have two full sets of teeth! (10)
- The Egyptian Mau gestation period is longer than usual for cats. Most cats kit after about 63 days, but Egyptian Maus can have their kittens a week later with no problems. (4, 10)
- The Egyptian Mau is the fastest breed of domestic cat. They can run at speeds up to 30 mph (48.3 kph)! (2, 4, 8)
Works Cited
- Alderton, D. (1992). Cats: The visual guide to more than 250 types of cats from around the world. Dorling Kindersley Limited: London.
- CatTime. (n.d.). Egyptian Mau. TotallyHer Media, LLC. https://cattime.com/cat-breeds/egyptian-mau-cats#/slide/1
- Edwards, A. (2006). The ultimate encyclopedia of cat, cat breeds, and cat care. Hermes House: London.
- Fawcett, K. (2016, June 24). 6 fast facts about Egyptian Mau cats. Mental Floss. https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/81610/6-fast-facts-about-egyptian-mau-cats
- Hartwell, S. (2013). Cat-breed DNA studies: True origins or legitimising impostors? Messybeast.com. http://messybeast.com/dna-studies-critique.htm
- Menotti-Raymond, M., David, V. A., Pflueger, S. M., Lindblad-Toh, K., et al. (2008). Patterns of molecular genetic variation among cat breeds. Genomics, 91(1), 1-11. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ygeno.2007.08.008
- Petfinder. (n.d.). Egyptian Mau. https://www.petfinder.com/cat-breeds/egyptian-mau/
- Syufy, F. (2019, September 22). Egyptian Mau: Cat breed profile. The Spruce Pets. https://www.thesprucepets.com/egyptian-mau-breed-profile-554215
- The Cat Fanciers’ Association. (n.d.). About the Egyptian Mau. CFA.org. https://cfa.org/egyptian-mau/
- The Egyptian Mau. (2002). CFA.org. https://cfa.org/egyptian-mau/egyptian-mau-article-2002/
Published March 14, 2021
