Cats

Justifiably Revered

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We have had a special place in our hearts for cats for thousands of years. The earliest signs of domesticated cats appear 7,500 BCE on the island of Cyprus, after which we begin to see records of cat burials, paintings, and figurines. Ancient Egypt's love affair took it a step further, revering cats and incorporating them into their religion! Sleek and agile, the earliest domestic cats were no doubt appreciated for their ability to hunt and control vermin, though today they are first and foremost companion animals, edging out dogs as the most popular pet in the United States. The Cat Fanciers’ Association recognizes 44 breeds, and there are a countless number of mixes or “mystery cats” to choose from, all with wonderfully unique personalities!


Featured Cats

Abyssinian
The Abyssinian is one of the world’s oldest cat breeds, though its exact origin is a source of continuing debate. Making…
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American Shorthair
This breed embodies the “All-American” working cat type – sturdy of structure with an amiable, playful personality…
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Birman
Many countries and cultures have made contributions to the Birman breed, as well as the myths and legends surrounding this…
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British Shorthair
British Shorthairs are known for their mellow demeanors and teddy bear looks. Their most common coloration is the “British…
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Burmese
The Burmese is a breed of cat that originated in Southeast Asia but was developed in the United States. The founding female…
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Devon Rex
With their big ears, impish faces, and curly coats, the Devon Rex charms those who appreciate something a little different…
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Maine Coon
As implied in the name, this breed is endemic to North America and is the state cat of Maine, where it was first recognized…
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Norwegian Forest Cat
This northern European native is a large cat with a thick double coat suitable for the inclement Norwegian environment in…
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Oriental
This sleek, sly breed enchants its owners with graceful motion, bold intelligence, and playful curiosity toward everything…
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Persian
Persian cats have been the most popular cat breed in America since 1871 (when the Cat Fanciers’ Association first started…
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Ragdoll
Ragdolls are a large, semi-longhaired breed developed by a breeder in Riverside, California in the 1960s. The founding members…
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Scottish Fold
This breed had its beginnings in (surprise!) Scotland when a shepherd spotted cat a bearing this unusual ear mutation on…
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Siamese
The beguiling Siamese is named for its country of origin, now known as Thailand, and they are believed to descend from sacred…
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Sphynx
This nearly hairless cat (they do have a fine layer of down-like fur) were developed from cats with a natural mutation for…
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Cat Finders’ Guide

Choosing a Pet Cat: In most cases, those who dislike cats have never lived with one.  They usually feel that cats are independent – do not obey; they are mysterious – you never know what they are thinking.  They are aloof -- don't come to you for petting or holding!  On the other hand, those who love cats appreciate their independence, like their mysterious nature and are attracted to a pet that is not overly needy: one that will ask for and give affection when they are ready. Older generations in the U.S. grew up mainly with dogs.  As homes became smaller in compressed suburban or urban environments the cat gained in pet preference for many more families. Learn more >>


Interesting Facts

The term “cat nap” refers to a short, light sleep, but it may not be an accurate representation of feline sleeping habits: cats actually spend most of their lives sleeping! A housecat will average 15 hours a day sleeping, with some snoozing up to 20 hours. This isn’t because they are lazy, though, it is because cats are powerful predators, and capturing prey takes an enormous amount of energy. Your cat isn’t hunting gazelle in the Serengeti – she no doubt receives her food in a bowl – but her physiology, not far removed from being a master hunter, still thinks it needs to preserve energy for that next great hunt!

 


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