Another question from our reader:
“I’m having trouble figuring out the breeds of my cats. I have a few ideas, but would you be able to help?
(If so, should I describe, or send pictures??)
Thank You!!”
Unlike dogs, where there’s a significant percentage to identify the mix of two breeds; there are only about 3% of cats that are purebred. Thus, your cat is unlikely to be an actual breed. However, all cats show some characteristics which you will find in one breed or another.
If you’re suspecting your cat is a Persian/Himalayan (which is a fluffy fat faced cat – at least the show quality ones) or a Siamese (which is a skinny shorthaired cat), then you most likely are drawing attention to your cat’s coat color. If this is the case, then your cat must be a colorpoint – light on the body, dark on the extremities. The color of this kind of gene comes from the Orient, and so your cat (long time ago) does share some common ancestry with the purebred cats which sport this coat color and pattern in show halls today.
Having long hair doesn’t mean your cat is a DLH (domestic longhair), nor it a DSH (domestic shorthair). Also, there are lots of cat breeds that have evolved naturally, making you say your cat meets the standards of a particular breed.
Most of the time, multiple bloodlines is the common problem in determining cat’s identifiable features. Often, most cat owners acquire their cats from adapting, thus they are not quite sure of the exact blood strain of their pet. So if you’re thinking of commercializing cats, proper breed identification is a must.
So how do you really determine the breed of your cat?
Measure height and weight
Weight holds a strong determinant in identifying cat’s breed. Thus, it is important that you take note of the weight your cat from its birth to its adulthood. Also, consider the gender of your cat in making your calculations.
Next, take note of the average height of your cat up to its withers. Also, measure the entire length of the body of the cat. The height and weight are two good identifiable factors for determining cat’s breed. Again, keep in mind that there are some differences between males and females, even if they’re on the same breed.
Feel the fur
Is it single or double layered? Some cat breeds have close lying single coats that are water-resistant and waxy. While other cats just have very thick fur with protective coat with distinctive layers (this is the double layered fur).
You can also measure the fur of the cat to help determine its breed. However, keep in mind that some breeds have both short and long-haired versions.
The markings
Then, take note of the various markings in your cat’s body. From colors in its body, is it plain colored, marked with stripes, spots or whorls, or is it marked with calico (solid blocks of red, black and white), or marked with tortoiseshell (interweaving colors of red, black and white).
Cat’s Eyes
Lastly, note the color and shape of your cat’s eyes. Normally, the outline, color and shape of cat’s eyes are specific to certain breeds. Siamese cats for example, have medium and almond-shaped eyes slightly slanting towards the nose. Their eye color range from ice to deep cobalt blue.
If you still can’t figure out your cat’s breed, you can always consult your veterinarian for professional opinion.
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