The Norwegian Forest cat is a brilliant Feline species native to Northern Europe. They are well-suited to their environment and thrive in cooler temperatures and have an ancient lineage that can be traced back to the Vikings (and beyond). This strong, sturdy and intelligent breed is similar to the Northern American Maine Coon. They are bigger than the average house cat and are built for endurance in often-harsh climates. The breed is said to trace its roots back to the Vikings around 1000 AD. They also may have ties to Crusaders returning from Jerusalem. As the breed interbred with feral cats, they morphed into the Norwegian Forest cat primarily seen today. It’s possible that these remarkable animals served on Viking war ships hunting mice and keeping often deadly diseases away from the crew. They have an amazing hunting ability, and served on farms for hunting rodents as well. The breed suffered near extinction due to the incursions of World War II but has flourished ever since an official breeding program was started in 1938. This cat was only known in Norway until mid-1970 when it gained official recognition. Norwegian Forest cats are now flourishing in Europe and North America, and in a typical year over 400 births to the breed are celebrated.

Physical Characteristics
The Norwegian Forest cat does not contain a lot of the sleek and smaller characteristics that are commonly found in domesticated housecats. They’re built a lot sturdier and have incredibly thick, water repellant coats that allow them to survive in incredibly cold climates. They also have characteristically bushy tails. The body is longer than the typical house-cat, and they have markedly long legs as well that contribute to their out-of-the-ordinary climbing ability. They have a remarkably long head/face shape that is often compared to a triangle. The ears have a noted tuft at the tip and are wide at the base. They are fabled to be able to climb cliffs by the strength of their claws alone, and many legends have been built upon this cat’s ability to climb impossible seeming surfaces. They are even able to scale rocks that normal cats would not be able to conquer.

Behavior and Temperament
Norwegian Forest cats are incredibly compatible with human companionship. Usually soft-spoken, they may become more vocal when sharing a house with a dog. They are extremely intelligent and love to play and demonstrate their hunting abilities. While these cats are usually found outdoors, they can adapt to a primarily indoor life, given the correct amount of attention, affection and enrichment. Expect to feed a Norwegian Forest cat more than the average breed. Their larger bone structure and musculature requires more nutrition than the average cat, and this need for nourishment can cause an unexpected strain on the owner’s finances if it comes as a surprise. This is a breed that is full of notable energy. They also require a lot of attention in order to be considered stable, healthy and happy.

Health Concerns
Norwegian Forest cats have a moderate but average lifespan and typically live to be between 14-16 years when properly cared for. They are notorious for certain genetic dispositions such as kidney and/or heart disease due to certain genetic markers within the breed. Norwegian Forest cats are also genetically predisposed to Glycogen Storage Disease type IV, which can be fatal if not treated properly. This disease can be detected in DNA testing – and a lot of reputable breeders require DNA testing before an animal is free to breed. Due to their large bone structure, they may also be susceptible to hip dysplasia. Reputable breeders will check for these genetic dispositions prior to breeding and will often test the litter for health issues prior to their release for sale or adoption.

The Norwegian Forest cat is a companionable and intelligent breed. By giving them the proper amount of attention and affection these beautiful cats can be guaranteed to enjoy a long and happy life.

Known for its distinctive fur and its country-wide popularity, the Abyssinian cat has become a happy addition to many homes, and seems to be poised to arrive at many more.

Origins
While rumors of the Abyssinian commonly trace back to Ethiopia, this cat’s origins remain unclear. Genetic and DNA testing have traced this popular breed to the Indian Ocean or even Egypt, although its name originates from Ethiopia. Although its origins remain uncertain, the breed was developed over time in Egypt, where it is believed the British colonists purchased the distinct animal from traders. Wild versions of the Abyssinian cat still roam the northern parts of Africa, and this breed is said to date back potentially thousands of years.

Features and Characteristics
The Abyssinian cat is most notable for its coat. This distinctive coat can be traced back to a single mutant gene known as the “ta”. To the touch, the hair is dense and extremely silky. Appearance, however, is what set this cat’s fur apart from the others. Each hair on their bodies has multicolored bands surrounding it that compliment and accentuate the single base color. There are many different color variations within the Abyssinian community, and Abyssinian kittens usually begin darker at birth before growing into their lighter, final color as they mature.

The Abyssinian is also known for its large and prominent ears, which always seem to be on high alert. The rest of the head is wide and shaped like a wedge. The Abyssinian’s tail is longer than most other cat breeds as well, and it tapers to a very narrow point at the end. Abyssinian cats are also surprisingly strong and nimble which takes some owners by surprise since their bone structure appears incredibly fine and dainty. They also commonly have “frown lines” appearing above the bridge of the nose and the eyes which most notably forms a very distinctive “m” shape.

Behavior and Temperament
You couldn’t ask for a more intelligent and interactive breed. Abyssinian cats are well-known for their curiosity and their playful spirit, and they’re very apt to learn quickly and easily. These cats are not known for serious snuggle time – they’re more often than not up and about, constantly exploring their surroundings with a curiosity that is usually breed-wide. Many Abyssinians are even known to play fetch when given the opportunity.

These cats spend so much time interacting and exploring their environment that they often don’t receive the affection and attention from their human companions that they need. They can slip into depression when the interaction with humans is limited and they need a lot of positive reinforcement and encouragement to remain happy and stable inside their surroundings.

Health Concerns
Because Abyssinian cats are short-haired cats, they require very little in terms of grooming so they are easily cared for. While they may occasionally require a bath, it is not the norm. Brushing semi-regularly may be advisable, and a regular brushing can accentuate their unusual coats even further. Their teeth, however, need to receive special care and it is highly suggested by veterinarians that they are brushed more regularly than they are bathed. Although rare, Renal Amyloidosis has also been found in certain Abyssinian cats, so having their health (especially their kidney functions) checked regularly is also advisable.

The Abyssinian cat is the perfectly suited cat to practically any environment. By maintaining external stimulation and engaging these intelligent and beautiful cats, you can guarantee a world of entertainment for your cat and for your family.

If a cat that appears as though it has walked straight out of the wilderness and into civilization is what you want, then the Bengal cat fills that order. The Bengal cat is a hybrid breed produced by crossing the domestic cat with an Asian Leopard cat. The desire of such cross breeding is to produce a cat that looks wild, but has the temperament of a domestic cat.

Physical Body
The most distinct feature of the Bengal cat is its extremely soft, thick, and uniquely patterned coat. There are two distinct patterns recognized within the Bengal cat breed. Those are spotted and marbleized. The spotted coat is closest to its leopard ancestor, featuring leopard spots in varying shades of brown, rust, orange, sand, black, and gray. The marbleized coat is produced from the mixing of the Asian Leopard cat with a domestic tabby to produce splotches that look more like marble. In either case, the Bengal cat has a look that is both strikingly beautiful and wild.

Other than the coat, another distinguishing feature that sets it apart from other cats is its muscular body, more prominent in males than females. Bengal cats are very athletic, sleek, and muscular.

Temperament
The Bengal cat loves to be part of the family. They love to interact and play. This is not to say they will not seek out a soft chair or lap in which to lie for a nap, but for the majority of the day they are very active cats. Being a high energy cat, they are not for someone looking for a docile animal to lounge around the house and look pretty.

The exotic heritage of this cat makes it unique both in look and personality. Even though it takes five generations of Bengal-to-Bengal breeding to produce a line recognized as a Bengal cat, these felines have a wild ancestral heritage and some of those instincts can still be seen in late generations through their extreme intelligence, high energy, and innate curiosity. This is a cat that loves to play and will demand interaction with their owners but in a way that is most pleasant. Some Bengals can even be trained to walk on a leash and play fetch. It’s also reported by some owners that their Bengals love water and will shower with them.

Due to the wild ancestral line of the Bengal, careful selective breeding practices are implemented by high quality Bengal cat breeders to ensure that the docile temperament of the domesticated ancestors is dominant.

Common Medical Problems
As with any breed of cat or dog, certain medical problems seem to be more commonplace than others. For the Bengal, the most common health problems seen by veterinarians are as follows:

Progressive Retinal Atrophy – This problem eventually causes blindness. There is no way to screen for this problem, so there is no way for a breeder to tell if a kitten will have problems later on.

Cataracts – Thickening and clouding of the eye lens, causing loss of vision over a period of time and eventual blindness. This problem can be reversed since cataract surgery is available for cats.

Cardiomyopathy – This covers both thickening of the heart muscles and thinning of the heart muscles, both causing very poor circulation. Cats stricken with this condition can appear healthy for a very long time and then suddenly appear very ill.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease – This is a condition in which an infection is present within the digestive tract. The symptoms of this condition are typically vomiting and diarrhea. Any Bengal showing symptoms should be taken to the veterinarian immediately to avoid dehydration.

Food Poisoning – Bengals have especially sensitive stomachs. For this reason, their diets should be carefully monitored and table scraps should never be on the menu.

One medical problem you’ll never have to worry about with the Bengal cat and possibly their most fascinating feature is they possess an apparent immunity to feline leukemia. This is an inherited trait that the Bengal cat received from its ancestor the Asian Leopard cat.

Bengal cats are one of the most interesting breeds in existence today. From their wild markings to their playful and loving demeanor, Bengal’s are an absolute joy to have around the house, especially in a household with children. If a cat who acts more like a family member is desired, the Bengal cat is a great choice.

Of all the cat breeds in the world, none is more distinctive or highly recognized than the Persian. Their look is almost stately, conjuring images of riches and opulence, especially white Persian cats, but this breed brings to the table more than simply good looks. Their calm and loving temperament makes them a joy to have around the house and a wonderful, loyal companion.

History
Persians have a lengthy and interesting history. They were first thought to have originated in Iran, which is where Persia once existed. Although this may be true, the modern Persian breed has lost its genetic signature. The modern breed we see today is felt to have, for the most part, developed in Western Europe, specifically Britain. It was not until after World War II that American breeders recognized the inherent beauty of the Persian and began breeding them. Now, the Persian is the most popular breed in the United States.

Characteristics
Persians are set apart from other breeds by their extremely thick coat, wide head, large eyes, and shortened muzzle. In the United States, a movement began in the 1950′s to produce an exaggeratedly flat face, known as peke-faced, but this gave way to health problems. While the peke-faced look is still very popular, the health problems associated with it caused many breeders in the mid-1990′s to abandon selective breeding practices to produce that characteristic. The traditional look of the Persian includes a more elongated muzzle than what we see today and many are now selectively breeding to produce the more traditional looking version of the breed.

Temperament
Dignified, calm, and gentle are three words that come to mind when describing the personality of the Persian. They are very quiet and affectionate, making them a favorite for apartment dwellers. They are content in nearly any environment so long as they are afforded enough attention. Although they do well around other pets, Persians need human companionship and should not be left alone for long periods of time.

Grooming
It should be noted that while most cats are able to groom themselves, the extra dense coat of the Persian prevents it from being able to do so. Regular bathing and brushing of the coat is necessary to keep the coat from matting. Additionally, the large eyes of the Persian can cause excessive tears that run down the face of the cat. Any ocular discharge and crusting should be cleaned each day to prevent staining of the fur around the eyes.

Variations
Persian cats have such a long and extensive history and have been popular for so long that there are many variations of the breed, some of which have given birth to other popular breeds. Himalayans are, in fact, a result of cross breeding Persians with Siamese cats. Exotic short-hair versions of the Persian breed were a result of crossing Persians with American Short-Hair cats. In South Africa, breeders were successful at selectively breeding specific characteristics to produce what is now known as the Chinchilla Longhair breed, featuring a longer muzzle and translucent hair with dark tips.

Health Concerns
The distinctive facial features of the Persian, especially in the peke-faced variations, can cause breathing and eye difficulties. Excessive tearing and corneal damage due to eyelashes rubbing against the eye are also two common problems with this breed. Aside from this, birthing problems are also common in this breed and the rate of stillbirths is much higher in Persians than other breeds at between 16% and 22%. Other health problems that may be seen in Persian cats are polycystic kidney disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and progressive retinal atrophy.

Persian Cat Rescue
It’s hard to believe, but there are Persians out there who do not have a loving home. Even this beautiful, distinctive cat sometimes finds itself in need of adoption for one reason or another and there are rescue centers scattered throughout the country that have Persians available for adoption.

One such rescue center is www.persiancats.org. It should be noted that this website does not ship cats due to the stress it causes the animal and the number of cats that are in need of good homes everywhere. They recommend searching local shelters and rescue centers first. Any individual visiting the website above should be forewarned that the sweet, beautiful faces they are about to see will indeed pull on the heartstrings and they just might find themselves on the phone shortly searching local shelters for a Persian of their own.

Siamese cats are one of the most beloved breeds amongst cat lovers, and understandably so. There are many reasons to love a Siamese cat from their blue eyes peering through the dark patch on their face to their high level of intelligence and energy. From their history to their personality, Siamese cats are a very unique breed.

Breed History
Siamese cats originated in Thailand in the 14th century. At that time, they were reserved for the royal families who would then bestow them on visiting dignitaries. They first showed up in the United States some time in the late 1800′s. The first documented Siamese feline to show up in the United States was a gift to First Lady Lucy Hayes. In present day, Siamese cats rank fifth in popularity in the United States according to the Cat Fancier’s Association.

Basic Breed Information
Female Siamese cats usually end up weighing between six to ten pounds with a height of twenty-one inches, while males usually weigh between nine and fourteen pounds and grow to a height of twenty-three inches. Their trademark look includes a wedge-shaped head with deep blue eyes, sleek body, and large pointed ears. Their coat is also a trademark feature with a cream colored torso and dark areas on the face, ears, and feet. This is caused by a mutated enzyme in the pigment. There are four official colors of the Siamese breed of cat as recognized by the Cat Fancier’s Association. These colors include seal, chocolate, blue, and lilac. Blue and lilac are simply diluted versions of the seal and chocolate colors.

Siamese Cat Personality and Temperament
Although very social cats, they are not necessarily the best choice for a household with children. They are generally very dedicated and loyal to their owners and love to talk. Many cat owners say their Siamese will always tell them what is on their minds and are not shy about making their demands known.

Always playful and loving, the Siamese breed does not entail the normal aloof feline attitude. They are known as the eternal kitten; the cat that never grows up. They display a more social personality than other breeds, even in the presence of other domestic animals.

They are a joy to own and even more fun to watch as they play amongst themselves or with the other cat and dog residents with whom they live. Their high level of intelligence is one of their signature characteristics. Many Siamese cat owners report their cats are able to be trained to perform tricks and learn their names very quickly.

Common Medical Problems
Unfortunately, just like with all breeds of cats and dogs, the Siamese cat also has certain medical conditions to which it is genetically predisposed. Many people know about the cross-eyed and kink-tailed abnormalities inherent in the Siamese breed, but these problems have been all but completely eliminated through careful breeding. There are two problems, however, that are still present in the genetic code of this breed. These two problems are gingivitis and a liver-destroying disease called amyloidosis.

While gingivitis can be prevented through proper dental care, amyloidosis is a much more serious illness caused by abnormally high levels of amyloid deposited in the liver. Amyloid is a fibrous protein and when high levels are present in the liver, it can cause hemorrhaging and renal failure. Symptoms include yellowing of the skin or eyes, vomiting, lack of energy, enlarged abdomen, anorexia, and excessive thirst in the presence of excessive urination.

Siamese Cat Rescue
After hearing about all the wonderful characteristics inherent in the Siamese breed of cat, chances are you are wondering where you can get one of your own. There are rescue coalitions that specialize in the rescue, care, and adoption of Siamese cats. One such organization is called Texas Siamese Rescue and is based out of Dallas, Texas.

To adopt a Siamese cat through this organization a fee of between $100 and $175 will be charged to partially cover the plethora of veterinarian services and tests this particular adoption center requires for each feline that moves through their facility. To check into this adoption service, simply visit their website at http://tx.siameserescue.org/

The Siamese is by far one of the most intelligent and fun-loving cat breeds around. It is no wonder they are favorites among cat lovers.

Maine coon cats are thought to have originated in Maine. In fact, the Maine Coon is the official state cat. The other half of their name results from a myth believing they were the genetic result of mating between domestic cats and raccoon’s. This is an impossibility, but the legend was born long ago, probably due to its very fluffy tail, and the name stuck. Although popular show cats in the late 1800′s, they saw a decline in popularity due to more exotic breeds being introduced into this country. Around the 1950′s the Maine Coon enjoyed a boost in popularity as breeders began to notice what a handsome and hearty cat they truly are.

Physical Characteristics
Maine Coons come in all different colors, although the most common color is the brown tabby. Eye colors can range from gold to green and sometimes even blue. The physical characteristics of the Maine Coon are that of a big, hearty, healthy cat who obviously evolved in cold climates. Their coats are very thick, shiny, and resistant to water. The fur on their backsides is thicker and becomes shorter toward the front. The tail and ears are thicker and furrier than other breeds of cats. These cats are one of the larger breeds and their feet are disproportionately large for their size. Females typically weigh in at around nine to twelve pounds while their male counterparts can reach anywhere from thirteen to eighteen pounds. People in general commonly misjudge their size as being much larger than reality due to the extremely thick coat.

Perhaps one of the more interesting characteristics of the Maine Coon is their voices. The sounds they make almost sound like chirping. It is strange indeed to hear such a high pitched voice come from such a large breed of cat.

Maine Coons Personality
Maine Coon cats are really just big kids. They mature more slowly than other breeds of cats and their youthful playfulness they never seem to grow out of. While they are very social cats, they are more simply just joyful observers, content to watch their human roommates engage in activities of daily living and sometimes even try to help out. They are not generally territorial and seem to cohabitate well with dogs and other cats. Their gentle playfulness and quirky ways make them a great addition to any home with children. Many owners report that the Maine Coon can be trained fairly easily, such as to submit to walking on a leash.

Care and Maintenance
While they are long-haired cats, their special coats need no more than a weekly brushing. Food may be left out, as they are typically not a breed that will eat themselves to obesity, but they are heavy water-drinkers and need a constant supply of clean, fresh water.

Common Medical Problems
Every breed of dog or cat is susceptible to certain genetic problems. For the Maine Coon, the most common problems are hip dysplasia and cardiomyopathy. The breeder from which the cat was obtained should know the genetic line and what problems have been inherent in its ancestral line.

The wonderfully playful Maine Coon is definitely a breed all it’s own. It’s rugged, distinctive look, clownish antics, and gentle social nature makes it a favorite among cat lovers everywhere, not just in Maine.

Five Top Tips For Ragdoll Cat Care
by Daniel Dutton

In this article, I present five great tips for caring for your Ragdoll Cat. I hope you enjoy reading it and learn something new at the same time.

1. Always make time for your Ragdoll
Ragdoll Cats are notoriously sociable creatures and require a lot more attention than other breeds. It is important to make [sure] you spend time with your Ragdoll preferably every day. Without your interaction, they could quickly develop behavioural problems. You can give your cat the attention it needs by simply playing with them or grooming them.

2. Groom your Ragdoll at least once a week
Although Ragdoll Cat’s require less grooming than other long-haired cats, it is important to groom them at least once a week. Not only will your cat have a beautifully groomed coat but it will also prevent the chances of them getting hairballs.

3. Don’t let your Ragdoll outdoors alone
These cats should either be kept indoors or be closely monitored if they are outdoors. Their gentle demeanour means that they will not defend themselves if attacked and they are at risk of contracting parasites.

4. Prevent scratching by covering the affected area with tin foil
Many cat breeders and owners have problems with their cats clawing furniture and other objects around the home. An easy way to stop this is by wrapping tin foil around the object. Cats do not like the texture of the foil and cease scratching it.

5. Make sure your Ragdoll has plenty of toys to play with
One of the most rewarding aspects of owning a cat is watching it play (and even joining in!). Playing is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle for your Ragdoll. Not only does it provide fantastic exercise but allows cat and owner to bond, so it is important that your Ragdoll has plenty of toys to play with. Toys can either be bought from a pet store or found around the house. Something as mundane as a cardboard box or a large bottle top can provide hours of entertainment.

Daniel Dutton is the founder of Ragdoll Cat Info [http://www.ragdoll-cat.info], an informational website dedicated to owners and breeders of Ragdoll Cats.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

Tip number five is spot on because I purchase toys for my cats all the time and it never ceases to amaze me that they end up playing with a wadded-up piece of paper or even a paperclip for hours and ignore the whole toy box full of purchased cat toys.

Learn the Secrets to Caring for Your Ragdoll Cat!

Learn the Secrets to Caring for Your Ragdoll Cat!

There are quite a few cat breeds on the market. If you’re like most people, you don’t understand much about them. In order to help you make an informed decision about the different cat breeds, here’s some helpful information.

Do you want a cat that will entertain himself and not get into trouble? Then don’t consider the Sphynx, the Rex, the British Angora or the Siamese. These cat breeds are very energetic and seem to look for trouble. For those who are trying to find a cat to provide them with amusement, these are the ideal choice. The Rex is a silly cat who will definitely entertain you.

There are other crucial elements to consider when choosing a breed. For example, when trying to decide if you’d like to own a long hair or a short hair cat, think about how much time you’ll be able to dedicate to grooming, if you don’t feel you have the time for daily grooming, you shouldn’t consider a long haired breed. Those who choose a long haired cat will need to recognize the commitment to taking care of that coat. Should you not, it may tangle and also matt and have to end up being shaven and it can also present a health risk.

Vocal cats are often something which many people either think about or want absolutely nothing to do with. They may be very loud. Many cat owners don’t have a problem with vocal cats, they recognize that communication with them is essential. While other pet parents don’t feel that a vocal cat is a good choice for them.

Vocal/Loud Feline Breeds:

• Siamese
• Burmese
• Korat

Quiet Feline Breeds:

• American Curl
• Scottish Fold
• Somali

Attitude is your next determining aspect. Some cats want to be held and cuddled, while others want absolutely nothing to do with people at all. Some cats want the attention while others don’t. Selecting which one is right for you is a personal decision you will need to make as a pet owner.

Loving Breeds are perfect for children:

• Snowshoe
• Maine Coon
• Ragdoll
• Abyssinian
• Tonkinese
• Himalayan Persian

Reserved Breeds:

• Nebelung
• Russian Shorthair
• Norwegian Forest Cat

Finally, in the event that you would like to opt for a kitten or even an abandoned older cat, bear in mind that kittens have to be trained; however adult cats can be set in their ways. You can discover a number of breeds to choose from at the nearby cat show and look for these breeds at your neighborhood humane society as well. These types of cats need homes and these organizations are generally full to the brim with them.

I hope that you found this information helpful and you’re able to discover the best breed that is right for you and your family.