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Most of the cats that are kept as pets in households across the world have been bred without the intervention of humans. They usually comprise of a random mix of genes that came together by pure accident. Pedigree cats, on the other hand, have been specifically bred to exhibit certain physical characteristics and tend to show breed-related behavior. For instance, Siamese cats are quite noisy and talkative compared to moggies. Breeders usually take:
- A naturally occurring cat group and develop them into a particular breed.
- A cat that has a genetic abnormality (like folded ears, short legs, or lack of coat) and cross-breeds it with another cat.
- Different breeds and mix them to form new breeds.
- A different species and cross breed with a domestic to form a hybrid.
Pedigree cats are considered special and they can cost a lot of money. However, they are not necessarily better than moggies, just different. While most of the moggies come from nature’s melting pot, pedigrees are bred to highlight specific physical and behavioral traits. So, while the look of your cat is guaranteed, he might also encounter genetic problems because of the closed gene pool. If there are disorders or health problems within the pool, then they can be easily passed on to the next generation – these are referred to as inherited disorders.
Good breeding
Good breeders are highly knowledgeable about cats in general and are well-versed in the problems that specific breeds face. They aim to breed healthy and people-friendly cats and try to deal with the inherited disorders that usually arise in a purebred.
Different personalities
Purebreds tend to have distinct personalities. But it is important to bear in mind that the personality of the cat depends not only on the breed but also on early experiences in the cat’s life, and the variation between different cats of the same breed can be quite great at times. However, good breeders make it a point to choose people-friendly cats to breed from, thereby ensuring that the next generation is more social. These cats are better equipped to deal with the emotional pressures placed on them by their owners. However, it also means that they are emotionally more dependent and might suffer from separation anxiety if the owner is away for a long time. Breed disposition is also something that needs to be taken into account. For instance, the Persian cat cannot keep its coat free from tangles without regular grooming, whereas the Sphynx needs regular cleaning and bathing to get rid of the oil buildup that is meant to coat the hair but remains on the skin instead. If you have decided to go the pedigree route, make sure that you do your homework before you choose the breeder. You want a healthy and happy cat that suits your lifestyle if you want a fulfilling and rewarding relationship with your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pedigree cats indoor cats?
Pedigree cats, like all cats, can be either indoor cats or outdoor cats. However, many cat owners choose to keep their pedigree cats indoors for various reasons such as safety, health, and environmental concerns. Indoor cats are generally safer than outdoor cats because they are less likely to be exposed to various hazards, such as traffic accidents, predators, and infectious diseases. They are also less likely to get into fights with other animals or get lost. In addition, indoor cats may have a longer lifespan than outdoor cats. Pedigree cats are often bred for specific physical traits or characteristics that are desirable for their breed standard, which can lead to the development of certain health conditions. This is known as selective breeding, and it has been associated with an increased risk of health problems in certain breeds of cats.
What is the difference between a pedigree cat and a non-pedigree cat?
A pedigree cat is a cat that belongs to a specific breed and has a documented lineage that can be traced back through several generations. This means that the cat's parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents were all purebred cats of the same breed, and their ancestry has been recorded in a pedigree registry. In contrast, a non-pedigree cat, also known as a domestic shorthair or domestic longhair, is a cat that has no known breed ancestry or documented lineage. These cats can have a wide variety of physical characteristics, coat patterns, and temperaments, and they are not recognized as a specific breed by any cat registry. Pedigree cats are often bred for specific physical traits or characteristics that are desirable for their breed standard, such as coat length, color, and pattern, as well as behavioral traits like temperament and intelligence. They are often more expensive than non-pedigree cats, and their breeders may be more selective about their homes and living environments.
How long do pedigree cats live?
The lifespan of a pedigree cat can vary widely depending on its breed, genetics, environment, and the level of care it receives. On average, pedigree cats can live between 12-16 years, although some breeds can live longer or shorter than this range. For example, breeds like the Siamese, Burmese, and Persian cats can live for 15-20 years, while breeds like the Bengal and Devon Rex can live for 10-15 years. However, some breeds, like the Scottish Fold, may be more prone to certain health issues that can affect their lifespan.
Which breed of cat is best for indoors?
When it comes to choosing a breed of cat for indoors, there are several factors to consider, including the cat's personality, activity level, and grooming needs. Some breeds of cats that are known to do well indoors include the American Shorthair, British Shorthair, Maine Coon, Persian, Russian Blue, Siamese, and Sphynx. The American Shorthair is a calm and easygoing breed that is known for its adaptability and affectionate nature. The British Shorthair is a quiet and gentle breed that is content to spend most of its time lounging indoors. The Maine Coon is a large and sociable breed that enjoys playing and interacting with its owners but can also be content to relax indoors. The Persian is a quiet and low-energy breed that requires minimal exercise and grooming, making it well-suited for indoor living. The Russian Blue is a quiet and intelligent breed that is well-suited for indoor living, as it is adaptable to different living environments. The Siamese is a highly active and intelligent breed that can thrive indoors with plenty of playtime and mental stimulation. The Sphynx is a hairless breed that is often kept indoors due to its sensitive skin, but it is also a highly social and playful breed that requires plenty of interaction with its owners.
How do I know if my kitten is a pedigree?
Pedigree cats are bred for specific physical traits and characteristics that are outlined in their breed standard. For example, Siamese cats have distinctive pointed markings, while Persians have round faces and long, thick fur. Look for these distinctive physical features to help determine your kitten's breed. If you acquired your kitten from a breeder, they should have provided you with pedigree papers that document your kitten's lineage and prove its breed. If you didn't receive these papers, you can contact the breeder to request them. Some companies offer genetic testing for cats that can help identify their breed and provide information about potential health issues. This can be particularly helpful if you have a mixed-breed kitten that may have pedigree ancestry. Your veterinarian can help you identify your kitten's breed based on its physical characteristics and can also provide advice on how to care for your specific breed of cat.
