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Cat Breeds

Feline 411: All About The Exotic Shorthair

by Victoria December 1, 2021

Wide-eyed and adorable, Exotic Shorthair cats are one of the most popular breeds around. Many don’t realize that this is a relative breed, with a unique history. Let’s discover all the reasons why people fall in love with Exotic kitties!

exotic shorthair cat facts

This breed was a secret at first…

The Exotic Shorthair cat didn’t happen by pure accident. This breed was created purposefully by American Shorthair fanciers in the 1960s who thought that Shorthairs and Persians together would create a very pretty kitty.

As you could imagine American Shorthair breeders weren’t too happy about this. They were obstinate to let this new American Shorthair-Persian hybrid cat be taken seriously. But, Cat Fancier Association judge and breeder Jane Martinke had a different idea. She thought the breed had great potential and accepted it to CFA championship status in 1967.

As this new cat breed gained more popularity, the CFA limited Exotic Shorthair breeding to only American Shorthairs and Persians. Before, some breeders actually crossed Burmese and Russian Blue cats as well, so that the cats could achieve a perfectly silvery coat.

Garfield

Garfield was an Exotic Shorthair cat!

Yes, the lasagna-loving cat Garfield was an Exotic Shorthair. While this cat breed was first bred to be silver-colored, the continued breeding with only Persian cats created Exotic Shorthairs all kinds of colors. This includes orange tabby, like Garfield!

The ironic part is that Garfield’s character doesn’t exactly reflect an Exotic’s personality. Garfield was known for his sarcastic and sort of selfish personality, not to mention his excessive laziness and terrible love of food. Exotic Shorthairs aren’t like that at all…

If there’s one word to describe an Exotic Shorthair, it’s loyal.

Exotic Shorthairs love their humans. They are super loyal to their owners. So much so that they adore cuddles and will even purr or lick you to show off their affection.

Exotic Shorthairs adapt to your schedule. These cats won’t pressure you- they’re usually down to do whatever you want to do! That could be playing a fun game or snuggling up and watching a movie together.

When you’re alone with your Exotic Shorthair, don’t be surprised by how much love their shower you in. But, when a new person comes around, watch as your Exotic gives them the cold shoulder. Their love is reserved for you, and only you.

exotic shorthair cat

This is also one chill kitty

What many adore about Exotics is just how chill these cats are. They don’t really put any pressure on you. Exotics just go with the flow.

Exotics are very polite kitties. They rarely meow, only gently nudging you or meowing softly when they need something. These cats also prefer calm environments and cozy places to hang out. So, always make sure there’s a special space for your Exotic on your couch.

These cats also do not need a ton of space to live a full life. They can thrive in a little apartment or a mansion. To Exotic Shorthair, there really isn’t a difference, unless you leave them alone too long. Exotics are very susceptible to separation anxiety and need consistent attention.

Someone nicknamed this cat the “Lazy Man’s Persian”

One upper hand of the Exotic is it is a lot lower-maintenance than its Persian parents.

Persian cats have long, delicate fur that requires daily grooming. For busy folks, that may sound like a lot. Exotic Shorthairs, on the other hand, only need to be groomed weekly. That’s because Exotics acquired a shorter coat from their Shorthair parents, which is a lot easier to take care of than a Persian’s long locks.

exotic shorthair kittens

But, make sure to take care of your Exotic Shorthair’s face

What can cause trouble for your Exotic Shorthair is surprisingly its face (despite how cute this cat is!) This kitty inherited a flat nose from its Persian parents. This may cause breathing problems for your cat. With that said, it is super important that you monitor your cat’s diet, ensuring that your Exotic maintains a healthy weight. Cat obesity will only cause more breathing issues for your Exotic.

Flat-nosed kitties also struggle with tear drainage. This may cause your Exotic to have tear stains under their eyes, which you should gently clean often. Remember – Exotics are very sweet-tempered and usually make grooming a painless process.

Exotics may be a new breed, but they sure are loved. Do you or anyone you know have an Exotic Shorthair at home? If so, don’t be shy to share any of these Exotic Shorthair facts with them. We’d also love to hear all your stories about these sweet kitties too.

gray exotic shorthair cats

December 1, 2021 0 comment

Cat Breeds Cat Breeds / Types of Cats

Feline 411: All About The Cymric Cat Breed

by Victoria November 27, 2021

written by Victoria

Cute, lovable, and oftentimes tailless, the Cymric is a rare and totally adorable cat breed. Whether you believe this cat is its own breed or not, there’s no doubt the Cymric has a personality and charm of its own.

Let’s dive into all the facts on the Cymric cat!

So, how do you pronounce Cymric?

It’s super important to know that Cymric is pronounced ‘kim-rik.’ Yes – the first ‘C’ is just like a K.

Cymric cats have old roots

The origins of these cats date back a few hundred years. We’re talking back to the 1700s most likely. This is when the Manx cat arrived on the Isle of Man, an island nestled in the Irish Sea between Ireland and England. Manx and Cymric cats are nearly identical to each other, apart from their hair. But, the Manx cats didn’t just appear out of the blue there – many speculate that the Vikings may have brought these cats over via ship centuries ago!

But, what makes Manx and Cymric cats different from their old, potentially Viking cat ancestors is their tailless figure. Yes – you heard right. Manx cats do not have tails at all. This spontaneous mutation was thought to have occurred in the 1700s or 1800s on the Isle of Man, giving the Manx. The Cymric followed after, as the long-haired version of this cat breed.

These cats are as wise as their age

The Cymric is one intelligent kitty. This cat can pick up any game rapidly fast. It’s no wonder Cymrics love to play a game of fetch or go for walks on a leash.

Not only do Cymrics adore their families, but they also rely on their humans to stay mentally stimulated. With that said, it is best not to leave your Cymric alone too long, as these cats will get restless and grow tons of separation anxiety.

Cymric cats have four types of tails

What may seem bizarre about Cymrics is that they are generally tailless cats. To get specific, Cymrics have 4 types of tails. There’s the rumpy tail, or essentially no tail at all. Then, there is the rumpy-riser, which is a small knob where a cat’s tail would be. Following that is the stumpy tail that is roughly a third of the length of a regular cat tail. Finally, there’s the ‘longy’ or full-tail.

cymric kitten

There is some debate around if the Cymric is an independent breed

The Cymric’s history has caused a few disagreements among cat associations on whether or not this cat is a breed on its own. In fact, the CFA in particular doesn’t consider this cat to be its own breed. Instead, the CFA classifies the Cymric as a variation of the Manx cat, called the Longhair Manx.

On the other hand, the ICA (International Cat Association,) along with most other relevant cat associations, recognizes Cymric cats as their own breed.

They are also pretty athletic kitties

What many adore about Cymrics is just how tough they are. These cats are medium to large in size, with stalky legs and muscular bodies. It comes as no surprise that Cymrics love to climb and jump on things. So, make sure you don’t leave the cat food on the top of the fridge. Your Cymric might find it funny to knock the bag straight to the ground…

cute cymric kitten

Cymrics are natural-born human lovers

Cymric cats live for affection. These cats absolutely love their humans. They are super kind and gentle in their ways. Cymrics love to play whenever they can. This all makes these cats great additions to any family, even ones with small children.

These cats are also known for their fantastic hunting skills. A Cymric has been called a ‘watch cat,’ as this kitty will keep an eye out for any and all pests. So, don’t be surprised if you hear your kitty growling. Your Cymric is just trying to protect you!

Grooming is a priority for Cymric cat owners

There is no doubt that this cat has gorgeous looks. To make sure your kitty stays healthy and beautiful, a consistent grooming routine is a top priority.

Cymric cats have double coats that need brushing around 3 times a week. It is also best that you pay close attention to your Cymric’s teeth, brushing them once a week if you can.

The Cymric cat is a quirky, rare cat breed that will charm any cat owner. Do you or anyone you know have a Cymric cat at home? If so, we’d love to hear all the funny stories about this playful and adorable kitty.

November 27, 2021 0 comment

Cat Breeds Cat Breeds / Types of Cats

Feline 411: All About The Nebelung

by Victoria November 16, 2021

written by Victoria

You can’t talk about new cat breeds without mentioning the Nebelung. This pedigree cat breed is very lovable for many reasons. And, we’re diving into them all.

Let’s discover all the facts about Nebelung cats!

Nebelung cat breed

The Nebelung cat has a super cool name

The name of this cat may sound a little strange. Don’t judge a book by its cover, though. Nebelung means ‘creature of the mist’ in German. That’s pretty cool, right? It must have something to do with this cat’s beautiful blue-grey coat…

This cat is probably younger than your parents

The Nebelung is a very new cat breed. We’re talking less than 40 years old.

This breed began in Denver, Colorado, somewhere around the early 1980s. A woman named Cora Cobb bred two cats, whose origins are still a bit of a mystery. Many believe it was a stray black short-haired cat and a Russian Blue cat. These kitties together had two litters. Cobb couldn’t help but notice that one kitty in each litter had stunning and silky blue-grey fur. So, she kept both cats, naming one Siegfried and the other Brunhilde, both names of characters from the German play ‘The Ring of Nibelung.’ Now, you see where the name comes from!

Cobb didn’t stop there. She continued to breed the cats, despite the resistance of many Russian Blue breeders. Because of Cobb, the Nebelung breed was recognized by The International Cat Association in 1987.

Nebelung cat

It’s hard to beat the Nebelung’s gorgeous coat

There is no doubt that the Nebelung has a show-stopping coat. It is a thick and full double-coat that is silky and soft to touch. Not to mention its unique blue-grey color that is just too pretty to ignore.

Of course, like most beautiful things, a Nebelung’s coat requires maintenance. It is a double coat, which is pretty dense and can get matted rather quickly. So, it is very important that you brush a Nebelung on a weekly basis. This will ensure your kitty’s coat not only looks fantastic – it will also help you and your cat avoid unwanted, painful knots.

A little fun fact about the Nebelung’s coat – it takes two full years for it to completely grow in!

The Nebelung is a natural apartment dweller

This cat breed is very chill. Nebelungs do love attention, but they don’t really need it. They’d much rather do their own thing, and play whenever you are around. This, combined with this cat’s love of lounging, makes the Nebelung the perfect indoor cat.

rare nebelung cat

But, that doesn’t mean these cats don’t love to play!

What makes Nebelungs such awesome cats are their versatility. For the most part, these cats are sweet, chill, and march to the beat of their own drum. Yet, Nebelungs do love their toys. It’s important to always keep toys around so that your Nebelung can have a little fun. You don’t always have to be there to play with them – Nebelungs can occupy themselves easily. But, these kitties won’t mind if you decide to join in, especially if you are their special person.

Nebelungs love their families, and that’s it

What is super funny about this cat breed is their loyalty to their humans. Nebelungs prefer to have one or two humans that they trust with all their needs. (Russian Blue cats are the same way!)

The Nebelung is a very chill cat that doesn’t seem to give much attention to new folks around. This cat will be happy to just have its family around, and that’s it.

So, if your friend comes over and wants to catch your Nebelung’s attention, don’t be surprised if your cat doesn’t find your friend interesting at all. Nebelungs are friendly, don’t get us wrong. They just would much rather be alone than have to introduce another new person into their lives. That isn’t too hard to relate to…

purebred Nebelung cat

These are also very healthy kitties

As expected, these cats are susceptible to the usual cat medical issues. When it comes to genetic issues, it takes time for these to occur in cat breeds. The Nebelung cat is a very new breed, so it has yet to develop any known genetic problems. Yup this means that Nebelungs can really live a long time, even up to 20 years.

The Nebelung is a very new pedigree cat with a charming personality and stunning looks. We’d love to hear all the facts and stories about Nebelungs if you or anyone you know has one at home!

November 16, 2021 0 comment

Cat Breeds Cat Breeds / Types of Cats

Big Cat 411: All About The Black Panther

by Victoria November 9, 2021

written by Victoria

Wild cats are fierce animals that inspire many of us across the globe. The black panther is surely one of them. This cat was chosen to be the name of a revolutionary political party and even a Marvel superhero. Now that’s pretty awesome.

How much do we really know about this big cat? Many of us have imagined a black panther’s mysterious and fierce nature. Yet, most of us don’t really know if this cat is real or just a mythical cat that lurks in jungles far away.

Continue reading to discover all the facts about black panthers!

black panther cat

The Black Panther isn’t actually a species…

The secret is out. The black panther isn’t a species of cat. Panther, in general, refers to the genus panthera. This genus encompasses jaguars, lions, leopards, and tigers. So, technically all of these cats are panthers (although we don’t really say that because that would be a little too confusing, right?)

So, how can you tell that all these cats are panthers? Generally speaking, animals under the panthera genus share similarly shaped skulls. Also, all these cats have larger vocal folds, a key physical trait that allows these cats to roar. Yes – panthers are the only cats who can roar!

What is a Black Panther then?

A black panther is still a panther. It just is a melanistic version of the panther. This means that the cat expresses dark pigments in their coat, depending on their genetic makeup. It all comes down to a funny thing called alleles. Alleles are variations of genes that can cause mutations, such as changes in fur pigment.

black panther facts

Leopards and jaguars are usually ‘mistaken’ as black panthers

Not every panther can be a black panther. In fact, the melanistic attribute of these cats only affects maybe 5 percent of panthers.

Almost always, leopards and jaguars will have the alleles necessary to create dark pigment in their fur. This is also why black panthers look almost identical, making you think that this cat is in fact a species of its own.

If you want to get nerdy about genetics, we have a fun fact for you. Leopards require recessive alleles to gain a dark-furred coat while jaguars need to have dominant alleles in order to produce dark pigment in their fur. That’s because each species is unique and requires a different genetic makeup to produce darker pigment in its coat.

facts about the black panther

These cats do have rosettes, you just can’t usually see them!

What do leopards and jaguars both have? Pretty rosettes on their fur. While each cat has different kinds of rosettes, these rosettes don’t just go away when a cat has darker fur. If you look closely at a black panther, you will most likely see their rosettes. Of course, we don’t advise getting too close to one of these big cats. Just wait until the sun shines on their fur and you will probably get a glimpse of their fur pattern.

The Florida Panther isn’t a panther (and cannot be a black panther, either…)

Something that is often very confusing is how the Florida Panther isn’t entirely a panther. The Florida Panther is a puma concolor, or a cougar. These cats live in, you might have guessed it, Florida.

It is extremely rare to find a black cougar, although people have claimed to spot black Florida Panthers before. It all really remains a mystery!

black panther in the wild

No matter what you call them, these cats need our protection

All of the panthera cats, leopards, jaguars, lions, and tigers included, need our help to sustain their populations. Each cat has a unique endangered status, but all of them are classified as endangered to a certain degree.

There are several causes behind the endangerment of these animals. From deforestation to poaching, these majestic cats are seeing their populations decrease annually. As cat lovers, we should help support and protect these beautiful big cats. They may be big and fierce, but they can’t protect themselves from everything.

To learn more about how to help protect cats from the panthera genus, there are several organizations working to protect these cats locally and internationally. The WWF is always a great source to start with.

So, did you learn something new about black panthers? We sure hope so. It’s pretty fascinating how a cat can be born with a wholly unique look. With only around 5 percent of panthers having the genetics necessary to have black fur, we can 100 percent say that being a black panther is something special.

November 9, 2021 0 comment

Cat Breeds Cat Breeds / Types of Cats

Feline 411: All About The Korat Cat Breed

by Victoria November 6, 2021

written by Victoria

Korat cats are nothing short of gorgeous. It’s rare to see a Korat cat, but when you do – you can’t miss these kitties. Their silky grey coats and striking green eyes can snag anyone’s attention, no matter if they are cat lovers or not.

So, what makes Korat cats so cool? Well, we have the 411 on these felines and we’re letting you in on the scoop!

korat cat breed

Korat Cats have been around since the 14th century

Yes, Korat cats are that ancient. These cats are from Thailand, where they are known as Si-Sawat cats. Korat cats appeared during the time of the Siamese kingdom, specifically within the Ayutthaya period. This sounds kind of ironic to hear, that the Korat cat was born in the Siamese Kingdom. Now that’s some real cat history.

So, where do these cats get their Western name from? This cat’s name pays homage to its very beginning. Many believed that the breed originally came from the Northern part of Thailand, known as Korat.

But, these cats didn’t arrive in America until 1959…

There were quite a few centuries between the emergence of the Korat cat and their entrance into the Western world. For the most part, Korat cats remained primarily in Thailand, treasured by locals. But, in 1959, the Korat cat finally made its way to America. It was recognized by the Cat Fancier’s Association just 8 years later.

This was the first officially documented presence of the Korat cat in the Western Hemisphere. The only other time the Korat may have made an appearance in the West was in Britain, in 1896. Yet, there isn’t enough records or report to prove that it was in fact the rare Korat cat.

Korat cat breed

The Korat is one of the purest cat breeds around

What makes Korats rare is their bloodline. Due to their history, these cats have stayed a natural breed for quite some time. There hasn’t been much crossing of their breed with other cat breeds. However, Korat cats still are pretty rare, making a purebred Korat still difficult to find.

This cat was a symbol of good fortune

Korat cats weren’t living the stray life in ancient Thailand. These cats were considered true gifts to society. We are not kidding – up until the 20th century, Korat cats were never sold in Thailand. They were only given as gifts!

How did this tradition start? Since the 14th century, Thai people considered the Korat cat a sign of luck and prosperity. In fact, the Korat cat was one of the most popular wedding gifts, to wish newlyweds good fortune.

pretty Korat cat

Despite their gorgeous looks, Korat cats are easy to groom

What makes a Korat cat stand out is its undeniably stunning coat. The Korat has a short silvery-blue coat that glistens in the light. Not to mention their charming, heart-shaped face and royal emerald green eyes.

Such a pretty and regal cat would probably be difficult to groom, right? Nope, not the Korat. Their simple and short coat makes grooming as easy as pie. You just need to brush your Korat weekly, to ensure dead hairs are cleaned out of its coat.

It’s best not to leave Korats alone too long

Korats love people, and they aren’t afraid to show it. A Korat is very loyal and gets easily attached to its humans. No matter who comes to visit, your Korat cat will not leave your side.

With that said, it’s best not to ignore or leave your Korat alone for long. While the Korat may not meow loudly to show it, this cat breed is known to experience major separation anxiety when left alone for long periods of time. This may make your Korat emotional and sometimes aggressive. That’s why it’s often best to have another pet around to distract your Korat kitty if you think you’ll be away from home more than you’d like.

cute korat cat

Korats are super active kitties

Another reason Korats love their humans is that they love to play. They are very witty kitties, who think fast on their feet. This means that Korat cats adore games. They are quick to pick up any game, even fetch! It’s really fun to play with Korats too, as these cats are fantastic listeners and learn the rules to any game pretty speedily.

The Korat cat is absolutely one of a kind. From their fascinating history to gorgeous looks, it’s hard not to fall in love with this cat breed.

Do you have a Korat cat? We’d love to hear all the funny anecdotes about your Korat kitty in the comments below.

November 6, 2021 0 comment

Cat Breeds Cat Breeds / Types of Cats

Feline 411: All About The American Curl

by Victoria November 1, 2021

written by Victoria

Lovable and adorable, the American Curl is a true charmer of a cat. From its warm personality to signature ears, it’s hard not to fall in love with this feline. We’re eager to share all the facts about this darling kitty and show you what makes the American Curl cat breed truly unique and special.

American Curl cat

Yes, the American Curl is named after its ears

There’s no secret here – the American Curl gets its name from its super unique ears. This cat’s ears are curled backward, rather than folded forwards. This makes the American Curl stand out from any other kitty.

Why are these cats’ ears curled? Well, we have nature as the explanation. After thorough genetic research, scientists discovered that a natural genetic mutation is behind this cat’s distinctly curled ears. Although we should mention – some Curls don’t have the genetic mutation. So, don’t be surprised if there’s a kitty with normal ears in a Curl’s litter!

This cat breed wasn’t discovered until 1981…

What is extraordinary about this breed is how recent it came around. It is one of the youngest cat breeds around.

The birth of the American Curl all began with a stray cat in Lakewood, California. A couple noticed the cat and brought her home. They named her Shulamith. Yet, the couple didn’t take major notice of Shulamith’s curled ears until her litter of kittens had the same trait as well. This prompted the couple to share the cats’ fascinating looks with a geneticist, thus introducing the new breed to the world!

American Curl kittens

You can find an American Curl in almost any color

When it comes to color patterns, American Curls have it all. You can find these cats in all different colors. There are white, red, cream, silver, tortoiseshell, and blue American Curls (and so much more.) You will also find both short-haired and long-haired American curls too.

While color patterns can vary, Curls do stay the same in their physique. These cats have other defined features apart from their ears. American curls have a lynx-like face with walnut-shaped eyes. They are medium in size and most have pretty plumed tails.

…and eye color too!

What’s awesome are all the eye colors American Curls can have as well. They can have amber, blue, yellow, or even green eyes. Talk about a versatile kitty!

American Curl cat breed

Some call the American Curl the ‘Peter Pan’ Cat

Isn’t that a cute name? Well, the American Curl has it for a reason. This cat is energetic, curious, and loving, with an overall kitten-like personality. The Curl’s youthful nature soon gave it the nickname the ‘Peter Pan’ feline. So, if you’re looking for some refreshing energy in your life, an American Curl is definitely the kitty for you.

This cat is one of the friendliest breeds

These forever kittens are undeniable lovers. American Curls are truly adored for their warm personality. They’re naturally friendly and are always looking to make new friends.

When a Curl finds its person or family, it becomes a loyal lover for life. This cat behaves almost like a dog in its loyalty. Curls are known for waking up their humans with cuddles, coos, or casual hair-licking. It isn’t to annoy you – these cats just want their favorite person to rise and shine with them!

American Curls are constantly curious about what their humans are up to. Don’t be surprised if your Curl is following you all around the house. It’s only because this kitty really loves you.

calico American Curl cat

You shouldn’t leave an American Curl alone for long

As we’ve learned about our loyal and loving pets, they don’t like to be left alone for long. This includes American Curls. These cats really do not like to be by themselves for extended periods of time. It won’t be long before your Curl will start cooing and getting restless.

It’s best not to leave an American Curl alone for long. This will only induce more separation anxiety, which can truly affect your cat’s well-being. An American Curl may become easily agitated or even aggressive. With that said, it’s best to give your Curl as much attention as you can. If you need to be away from home often, then perhaps having another pet around can help distract your kitty. Just make sure the other pet is tolerant of your Curl’s playful kitten nature!

Do you or someone you know have an American Curl at home? Well, lucky them! These cats are very rare and one of kind. We’d love to hear all the fun facts about this breed in the comments below.

beautiful American Curl cat

November 1, 2021 0 comment

Cat Breeds Cat Breeds / Types of Cats

Differences Between Maine Coon Cats And Norwegian Forest Cats

by Victoria October 15, 2021

written by Victoria

There are tons of cat breeds out there, with many identical traits. Two kitties that have many cat lovers confused are the Maine Coon and Norwegian Forest Cat. These cats share so many characteristics that even kitty researchers are curious about their genetic affiliation. But, there’s no doubt these two cats are breeds of their own.

(**In this article for the side by side comparisons, the Maine Coon cats are on the left, with the Norwegian Forest cats on the right**)

Let’s Discover all the Differences Between Maine Coon Cats And Norwegian Forest Cats!

These two cats come from two different places…

The names of these two kitties pretty much give away one big difference – that these cats come from two diverse places! The Norwegian Forest Cat comes from, you guessed it, Norway. What is even more fascinating about this breed is that it has origins dating back to the Vikings. The Norwegian most likely arrived from the Middle East by way of Viking ships, being a reliable mouser during these long voyages.

Maine Coon cats were discovered by farmers in Maine during the 19th century. One thing we know for certain is that these cats didn’t originate in Maine. The breed’s unknown beginnings have many wondering if it evolved from another breed that arrived by ship with the European settlers. It all still remains quite the mystery.

differences between maine coon cats and norwegian forest cats

The Norwegian and Maine Coon have unique faces

When it comes to identifying the differences between Maine Coon Cats and Norwegian Forest Cats, you must look closely at their faces. First off, these cats actually have two differently shaped heads. The Norwegian Forest Cat has a more narrow-shaped head, while the Maine Coon has a distinctively wider triangle-shaped head.

These kitties also have their own eye shapes too. The Norwegian cat always looks alert, with its alluring almond-shaped eyes that are gently slanted.

The Maine Coon cat, on the other hand, has clearly oval-shaped eyes. But, when a Maine Coon has its eyes on something, its eyes can appear super round and just as alert as a Norwegian’s.

And, their bodies are quite different too

There’s no doubt that these two cats are both big and fluffy cats. They both have semi-long fur that makes them appear extra cuddly. Yet, the Maine Coon is a bigger cat, weighing around 2 to 6 pounds more on average than a Norwegian Forest Cat.

Despite being bigger in size, the Maine Coon has much more elegant fur, that is soft and sleek. The Norwegian Forest Cat has much more dense fur, the kind that would help any kitty live in the forest! What’s super cute is that the Norwegian Forest Cat must have a mane, making it look more like a little lion.

When it comes to fur color, these two cats can definitely share some of the same color variations, like cream, black, or even blue. The Norwegian Forest Cat has much more color patterns than the Maine Coon. You can find red or amber Norwegians too!

Norwegian Forest Cat kittens

Norwegians live a little longer than Maine Coons

The Norwegian Forest Cat has an impressive life span of 14 to 16 years, whereas Maine Coons only lives an average of 11 years.

Norwegian Forest Cats are hyper independent, whereas Maine Coons need lots of love

Observing these two cats’ social behavior will show you just have diverse these two kitties are.

The Norwegian Forest cats march to the beat of their own drum. They aren’t interested in doing anything humans do, and would much rather entertain themselves.

Maine Coons are quite the opposite. They’re loyal and lovable, and never shy to ask for attention. You can totally cuddle up with your Maine Coon. But, don’t really bother with the Norwegians. These cats will come to you!

Maine Coon cat meowing

Maine Coons are chattier than Norwegian Forest Cats

If there’s one thing for sure, it’s that Maine Coon cats love to talk. They’re always finding a way to express themselves. The funniest part is that Maine Coons don’t really meow. They prefer to make trilling or chirping noises to communicate their needs. As we know, Maine Coons love being around their humans and don’t like to be ignored.

Norwegian Forest cats don’t meow, or make any noises at all really. Maybe it’s because of their history of forest-dwelling, always on the hunting prowl. Either way, many adore Norwegians for this very reason. They really don’t like to bug anybody.

As you can see, there are many differences between Main Coon Cats and Norwegian Forest cats. Each cat has its own personality, look, and way of life.

Was there a difference we missed? We’d love to hear all your thoughts on the Norwegian Forest Cat and Maine Coon, two very unique kitties!

differences between maine coon cats and norwegian forest cats

October 15, 2021 0 comment

Cat Breeds Cat Breeds / Types of Cats

Meet The British Fluffs: Mister Charlie, Queen Bobby, & Terror Teddy

by Modi Ramos September 13, 2021

written by Modi Ramos

In Gouda, South Holland, there lives a trio of adorable British Shorthair cats. And while they’re purrfectly photogenic, they’re funny, cheeky, and oh-so-clingy, too. British Shorthair cats are fluffy felines that can remind us of teddy bears, and for the British Fluffs, they’re unique appearance and adorable photos are cat-lover kryptonite!

I caught up with their owner hoping to feature them on the website, and thankfully she agreed. So, everyone meet the British Fluffs, three of the cutest British Shorthair cats you’ve ever laid your eyes on.

How did Mister Charlie, Queen Bobby, and Terror Teddy get their names?

When I was young I decided that when I got the possibility to get my own cat it should be a blue British Shorthair named Charlie. Luckily my boyfriend agreed haha. Charlie turned out to be a boy so he was the first mister of the house. Bobby is his white sister and the only female (queen) of the house. You don’t see blue eyes often by a white British Shorthair so that makes her even more our queen. Teddy is one year younger than Charlie and Bobby and is really a terrorist. He is by far the most naughty and cheeky. Teddy has the same mother as Charlie and Bobby and all three names are possible for a male/female, since we invented names before we could know the gender.

What are each of their personalities like?

Charlie is a real drama king and meows all day to get attention or snacks. Bobby is the most calm and quiet, except when there are flies in the house. Then she turned into a real serial killer. Teddy(bear) is the most cuddly and purrrs all day and night long. He challenges his big brother and sister until they romp.

I’ve heard that British Shorthair cats love to be near you at all times, are yours this way?

Absolutely yes. It’s an absolute no-go to go to the toilet or shower by only yourself. Bobby’s ritual is that she waits in front of the shower door after showering and then jumps on you for cuddles. It’s a full house in our room, and they also love to sleep on our bed at night.

What are their favorite hobbies?

Napping, relaxing and did I already said sleeping? British Shorthairs are really lazy. Charlie and Teddy are very playful and Bobby loves to catch flies. All three of them are really photogenic, as you can see at our Instagram.

What’s something special you’d like people to know about the British Fluffs?

The British Fluffs are really fluffy, cute and beautiful. They are unique each and so special together. Like I said before, there are not much white British Shorthairs with blue eyes and you also don’t see much brown (chocolate) British shorthairs. Follow us for a daily dose of fluff!

I’d like to give a special “thank you” to Lisa Miltenburg, the proud owner of the British Fluffs, for allowing me to share her cats’ story and cute photos with all of the Cattitude Daily readers. Hopefully this trio of cuties brightened your day. If you know another cat lover who would appreciate them, don’t forget to share.

Can’t get enough of British Shorthair cats? Learn all about them here in this fun video!

All Images Courtesy of british_fluffs on Instagram

September 13, 2021 0 comment

Cat Breeds Cat Breeds / Types of Cats

Feline 411: All About The Chartreux Cat Breed

by Victoria September 7, 2021

written by Victoria

The Chartreux cat is a majestic feline that might behave more like a dog than a cat. Although this cat is often confused with the British Shorthair, the Chartreux cat is very much a kitty with a look and history of its own!

Let’s learn all about the rare Chartreux cat breed!

Chartreux cat breed facts

You probably guessed it… these cats are French

The Chartreux cat is part of all aspects of French history. This cat has origins in the monasteries of France, where many believe the Chartreux cat was first bred. In fact, there were oral traditions passed down about these unique cats from these monasteries.

Fast forward a few hundred years, this cat made its way not only into written tradition but into nobility. There is a painting of an aristocratic woman, Magdaleine Pinceloup de la Grange, holding a grey kitty that many art historians agree is a Chartreux cat. This painting was commissioned in 1747! There are also several references to this feline in French literature too.

Chartreux kittens

But, the Chartreux cat’s origins are still unknown

While there are various allusions to the Chartreux cats in French history, the actual origins of this cat are pretty uncertain. The oral traditions passed on by the monks say that these cats originally came from the mountains of Syria. How they arrived in France was most likely by way of the Crusades, a religious war that began in the 11th century. Historians believe this tale, as there are many confirmed sightings of Chartreux cats along the roads Crusaders traveled to the Middle East.

These cats are pretty rare

The Chartreux cat isn’t one you’ll see just about anywhere. That’s because these cats were part of French nobility for a long time. As we know, nobility really values bloodlines. The French aristocracy controlled the breeding of these cats, making them very limited until this day.

This doesn’t just go for France or Europe. The Chartreux cat is rare even in the United States. That’s most likely due to the fact that this cat didn’t even arrive in the U.S. until 1970!

Chartreux cat breed

Chartreux cats have very unique hair

What is absolutely fascinating about the Chartreux cat is their coat. These cats actually have water-resistant fur. This means that, no matter how soaked these kitties get, they will come out of a bath pretty dry on their own. This is one of the few Chartreux cat facts that make these kitties more like dogs than cats.

Most can’t tell the difference between the British Blue and the Chartreux cat

These two kitties may have a similar blue-gray coat, but that isn’t enough to say these two cats are alike!

The British Blue cat does not have the water-repellant hair that Chartreux cats do. Instead, British Blues has a super dense and plush coat that definitely retains water. Also, British Blues have strong legs and are more stocky than the Chartreux.

The real big difference between these kitties is their eyes. Chartreux cats have distinctly orange eyes. British Blues, however, can have green, blue, gold, or even copper eyes.

Chartreux cat breed

Many adore these cats for how calm and quiet they are

Chartreux cats live by the motto: cool, calm, and collected. They prefer to live a low-key life, lounging around, and not annoying anyone. These cats are so chill that they rarely even hiss at people.

Also, Chartreux cats aren’t’ very chatty either. This goes from the moment these felines are kittens – these cats doesn’t make much of a peep! This makes these cats a favorite for many cat owners who prefer to maintain a very tranquil household environment.

The Chartreux cat loves to have a BFF

Even though these cats may not be chatty, they do love companionship. Chartreux cats stick by their humans. They don’t love being alone. These cats don’t mind being held for long periods of time. As many of us cat owners know – this isn’t common for most cats. So, if you’re a dog person looking for a cat, the Chartreux may be the cat for you!

In fact, Chartreux cats are known for picking their special someone. They like to get really close to one person and make them their best friend for life. This doesn’t mean that this kitty will forget about or be mean to others – these cats stay super friendly to everyone else. But, their special someone will forever get that extra special treatment.

Do you or anyone you know have a Chartreux cat? Well, what a rare treasure you have! We’d love to hear any and all the stories about these beautiful kitties.

pretty Chartreux cats

September 7, 2021 0 comment

Cat Breeds Cats

Meet Toby And Mr. Mika: A Pair Of Precious Ragdoll Cats To Brighten Your Day

by Modi Ramos September 3, 2021

written by Modi Ramos

With all the crazy news going on across the globe, if you do decide to go online, it’s nice to fill your feed with cats to keep your spirits up. For Toby and Mr. Mika, they’re a couple of super gorgeous Ragdoll cats that love to pose for the camera. And thankfully for us, their owner takes precious photos of them to share with the world.

May be an image of ragdoll cat

It’s hard not to fall head over heels for a Ragdoll: those eyes, that fluff, and so much kitty to love! These two cats each have their own personality, and they’ve carried the torch to honor their late cat housemate, Timo, whose adorable videos still brighten the days of many even after his passing.

I caught up with their owner hoping to share this cute pair, and thankfully see agreed! So, everyone, get to know Toby and Mr. Mika!

Where are you guys located?

We are living in the Netherlands.

May be an image of 1 person and ragdoll cat

What are each of their personalities like?

Mr. Mika is a very gentle, easy going, active and playful kitty. He’s very smart and loves to learn things like new tricks. Mr. Mika is a very curious boy. He has a special bond with his Koi fish friends, one in particular, the big white one. We call him Dino because he’s huge.

Toby loves to play as well but he’s not very gentle. He loves to play rough. He’s a bit bossy. Toby is big fluffy cuddle kitty, a real mommy’s boy. The typical thing is, he looks big but he sounds like a baby with his little baby squeaky sound. Toby has typical funny Ragdoll poses (sitting like a real man).

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What are their favorite hobbies?

Mr. Mika loves to hang around at the Koi pond, greeting his buddies. He visit them every day. He will always touch and even kiss them and never use his nails. The fishies recognize him too, it’s very special. He also loves to chase Toby. Mika always wants to play with everything he sees like a leaf, twig or a bug. He’s a busy kitty. He helps his cat dad at the Koi pond by dragging the fish net and checking out if they getting enough food. The best helper! Mr. Mika loves to chill in his hammock.

Toby loves feathers. He never gets enough of feathers. His daily routine is running after Mr. Mika in the morning, running like a maniac. A great workout. He’s always near Mika like a big brother (although they are not really brothers). Toby loves to chill in his hammock as well.

They say that Ragdoll cats will go limp when you hold them, how do your Ragdoll cats respond to being held? (They are both Ragdoll cats, correct??)

Yes they are both full breed Ragdoll cats. And yes they both go limp when you pick them up.

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How do Toby and Mr. Mika get along with each other?

They get along very well. They loved each other since the beginning (since day 3). They are always playing together and grooming each other. A perfect match.

What’s something special you’d like people to know about Toby and Mr. Mika?

They’re special characters. Ragdolls are like puppy dogs. Funny, smart and pretty. Also, they are very gentle and their fur feels soft like silk.

The late Timo the Ragdoll cat

Could you please tell me a little bit about Timo, your late cat?

About Timo, he was a very special cat. Our first Ragdoll. We fell in love with him from the moment we saw him. He became well known on the internet because of his special bond with the Koi fish (just like Mika) and his hammock skills. Unfortunately he passed away too young in 2019 because of kidney failure. I receive daily messages of people watching old videos of Timo on YouTube again, telling me how much they miss him. He was loved all over the world.

I’d like to thank Toby and Mr. Mika’s owner for allowing me to share her gorgeous kitties with the Cattitude Daily readers. It’s so fun to be able to personally connect with cat owners all over the globe, so I hope you enjoyed learning about these two precious cats. To keep up with these cuties, follow them on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.

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All Images Courtesy of Timo the Ragdoll Cat on Facebook

September 3, 2021 0 comment

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