Balinese
Balinese

Balinese

The Balinese cat is a beautiful elegant medium-sized cat breed with the same long svelte lines as the Siamese. The body is slender and graceful and the head has a straight profile with large ears which may have tufts. It has a fine, silky flowing coat which can be from one to several centimetres long and lies flat against the body. The tail is long and plumed with much longer hair. Th Balinese cat has no woolly undercoat and so it is classed officially as 'semi-longhaired'. The eyes are bright blue and oriental in shape and setting. The coat features the same coloured points (ears, face, legs, feet and tail) and mask as the Siamese. In the USA Balinese-type cats with additional markings to those accepted for the Balinese are known as Javanese.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Friendly but independent cat
  • Very talkative cat
  • Lean and elegant cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Outdoor cat
  • May require familiarisation before living with children
Personality

The temperament of the Balinese cat breed is similar to that of the Siamese, but some owners think the Balinese is somewhat quieter. However, it is likely that the Balinese cat will still be something of an extrovert and will demand attention from its human companions. Balinese cats are extremely vocal and almost seem to talk to their owners. They need to be part of the family and their need for attention means they like human company and suit someone who is not out all day.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: America

 

The Balinese cat is basically a longhaired Siamese. First noticed in the early 20th century, breeders at first gave away their longhaired kittens. After the Second World War the breed was developed and originally called the 'Longhaired Siamese', it was renamed 'Balinese', due to the cats' resemblance to elegant, Far Eastern temple dancers. In 1961 the Balinese cat was recognised in America but it was not until the mid 1970s that the Balinese cat breed was imported into Europe.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

Because of its links to the Siamese the Balinese cat breed may suffer from similar inherited disorders.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Australian Mist
Australian Mist

Australian Mist

Australian Mist cats are a medium-sized shorthaired breed, with a round head and large, expressive eyes in a range of greens. There is nothing extreme about Australian Mist cats - they are of moderate size and medium boned with a friendly face. The coat has a pale background with some ticking which seems to give it a misted look, as well as a pattern of fine spots or marbled swirls, with legs and tail ringed and barred, and the face lined. Australian Mist cats come in seven colours: brown, blue, chocolate, lilac, caramel, gold and peach.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Playful and curious cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming everyday
  • Needs some out-door space
  • Great family cat
     
Personality

Australian Mist cats are said to be affectionate and happy with people or other pets and easily fitting in to become a member of the family.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Australia

 

Other Names: : Spotted mist The Australian Mist cat is short haired breed that was developed in Australia in the 1970s by crossing Burmese, Abyssinian, and domestic shorthair cats to create a cat with a spotted coat and for this reason was initially called the Spotted Mist. As the Australian Mist cat breed developed and more patterns emerged, including marbled coats, the name was changed in 1998 to Australian Mist. There are not yet many Australian Mist cats yet in the UK and Europe but the breed is growing and breeders are working to have it recognized by cat fancy organizations.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

There are no reports of inherited problems in the Australian Mist cat breed.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Asian
Asian

Asian

Asian cats have long medium-sized, quite muscular bodies and a tail that tapers to a rounded tip. Female Asian cats are much smaller and daintier than males. The head is wedge shaped with a gently rounded dome, medium sized wide-set ears and large eyes with a silvery rim. The coat, which can look like watered silk, is short, fine and lies close to the body. A wide range of colours and patterns are available in this group.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Playful and curious cat
  • Friendly but independent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Lean and elegant cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Needs some out-door space
  • Great family cat
Personality

The Asian cat breed is very like the Burmese in temperament - extremely friendly and affectionate - but slightly less boisterous than the Burmese. Asian cats love attention and need to be part of the family. They can be quite demanding and often follow their owners around the house crying for attention. Asian cats are very intelligent and can often work out such problems as how to open doors. They can be very sensitive to their owner's feelings and this makes them excellent companions.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Britain

 

Asians look similar to Burmese but with coats in colours not recognized in the Burmese breed. The Bombay is from this group, as is the Burmilla and the Tiffanie. This is a young and rapidly developing breed that is rising in popularity. The Asian cat breed includes the Bombay cat, Burmilla cat and Tiffanie cat breeds which are listed separately.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

There are no specific conditions relating to Asian cats in the veterinary literature, however, there may be a tendency for this group to develop conditions associated with the Burmese. Some lines of Burmese appear to be more susceptible to diabetes mellitus than other breeds.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

American Wirehair
American Wirehair

American Wirehair

As its name suggests, it's the coat that characterises this American Wirehair cat breed. The American Wirehair is on the large size and has a harsh, springy and wiry coat - each short-to-medium hair is thin and crimped, or hooked. The whiskers are often curly. The full extent of the 'wiring' only becomes apparent when the cat is mature; American Wirehair kittens that appear to have very curly coats when they are young can grow up into merely wavy, rather than wiry adults, and vice versa. They come in all sorts of colours, patterns and markings.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Friendly but independent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Outdoor cat
  • Great family cat
Personality

The American Wirehair cat is friendly and laid-back. It is relaxed, sweet natured, gentle and playful, enjoying toys, and games with its owner. This is not a particularly talkative cat breed.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: America

 

The American Wirehair cat breed began as a spontaneous mutation in a litter of New York farm cats in 1966 when one wirehaired kitten (named Adam) was produced among normal coated littermates. All American Wirehair pedigree cats can be traced back to Adam. The American Wirehair cat has become popular in the USA and Canada, but is little known elsewhere and is not a recognised show breed in the UK.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food.  However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

American breeders claim that the American Wirehair cat is a robust breed with few health problems. This cannot be confirmed in the UK population due to a lack of numbers.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

abyssinian
abyssinian

Abyssinian

Regal and highly intelligent, the Abyssinian is best described in one word: busy. Not a lap cat, this insatiably curious breed is always on the move, except when eating or sleeping. A fascinating, gorgeous breed, the Abyssinian is a natural athlete, with a muscular body and no fear of heights. The Aby is an affectionate, loyal, people-oriented companion that is well-suited for families with children older than 6.

DID YOU KNOW? The Abyssinian, one of the oldest cat breeds, was named for cats exhibited in shows in England in the late 1800s that were thought to have come from Abyssinia, the former Ethiopia.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Friendly but independent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Outdoor cat
  • Great family cat
Living Considerations
Not hypoallergenic
Size
Small to medium, with males weighing 3 to 4.5 kilograms and females weighing 2.5 to 3.5 kilograms
Coat
Medium
Temperament
Energetic, active
Grooming
Monthly
Shedding
Yes
Vocalisation
Quiet
Personality

The Abyssinian cat is quiet, intelligent and curious and is said to enjoy human company and become attached to its family. It enjoys space and activity, is a good climber, and will appreciate a garden full of trees and high places. Abyssinian cats are playful but tempered with some sense so are not too wreckless!

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Abyssinia (Ethiopia)

 

Other Names: : Abys, Bunny cat

 

The Abyssinian cat resembles the African wildcat, ancestor of the domestic cat. The history of the Abyssinian cat in the UK is a little obscure, but it is likely that it was brought back via army personnel from Abyssinia (now Ethiopia), in the 1860s. The early Abyssinian cats were crossed with British Shorthairs, and later with oriental breeds. Long-haired Abyssinian kittens have been found in litters for many years, and since the 1970s they have been developed as a separate breed called the Somali.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

Abyssinian cats can suffer from an inherited disease called pyruvate kinase deficiency that can cause anaemia. A reliable test is available for this and prospective owners should ask breeders if their cats have been tested and are clear of the problem. An eye problem, called progressive retinal atrophy, which causes progressive blindness has been indentified in some countries so it is worth asking the breeder about this as well.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed tends to be excellent with kids, each cat has a different personality based on training and life experience. Please consult the adoption organisation, if you are adopting, for details on a specific cats character.

 

Vizsla

A versatile hunter from Hungary, the Vizsla is an active, energetic dog with great power, drive and determination. Lively, affectionate and tractable, the Vizsla thrives with an active family. Gentle-mannered and sensitive yet fearless and protective, the breed excels as a watch and guard dog. The Vizsla trains easily. His coat is low maintenance.

DID YOU KNOW? The Vizsla was all but extinct by the end of World War I.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Hungarian Vizsla, Hungarian Pointer, Magyar Vizsla

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Medium dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Quiet dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Living Considerations
Good with children, not hypoallergenic, not suitable for apartment living
Size
Medium
Height
Males – 56 to 61 centimetres at the shoulders, Females – 53 to 58.5 centimetres at the withers
Weight
Males – 20 to 29 kilograms Females – 18 to 25 kilograms
Coat
Short
Energy
High
Colour
Golden rust in varying shades with lighter shadings over the sides of the neck and shoulders
Activities
Agility, Obedience, Field Trials, Rally Obedience
Indoor/Outdoor
Both

Toy Fox Terrier

The Toy Fox Terrier has a feisty, animated personality packaged in a small, elegant, nimble body. The breed is sociable and friendly, making him a wonderful family companion. A worthy watchdog, he also is fearless, loyal and alert. The Toy Fox Terrier is easy to care for, requiring minimal exercise. Weekly brushing and occasional baths are required for his fine, satiny coat.

DID YOU KNOW? The Toy Fox Terrier originated in the 1930s to create a milder, calmer version of the Fox Terrier. This American breed was developed from crossing the Fox Terrier and various toy breeds, such as the Miniature Pinscher, Italian Greyhound and Chihuahua. The breed is commonly called the “Amertoy.”

ALSO KNOWN AS: American Toy Terrier, Amertoy

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Little toy dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Very vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • Great with other pets
  • Great family dog
Living Considerations
Good with older children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living
Size
Toy
Height
21.5 to 29 centimetres
Weight
3.5 to 7 kilograms
Coat
Short
Energy
High
Colour
White and black, white and tan, white black and tan, or white chocolate and tan
Activities
Conformation, Obedience, Agility
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor

Spinone Italiano

A versatile hunting breed, the Spinone Italiano is a robust, powerful, muscular dog known for his superior nose, soft mouth and thick, wavy coat, which protects him from extreme temperatures. In the field, he is determined and tireless, but at home, this naturally cautious dog is sweet and calm. The affectionate Spinone Italiano is happiest when near his human companions. He requires daily exercise.

DID YOU KNOW? This ancient breed originated in northern Italy as early as 500 B.C. Throughout history, the Spinone Italiano has also been called the Italian Pointer, Spinone, Italian Spinone, Italian Coarsehaired Pointer, and Italian Griffon. “Bella” and “Tris” were the first-known Spinone Italianos in the U.S. They were imported in 1931 by Dr. Nicola Gigante.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Spinone, Italian Spinone, Italian Griffon, Italian Wire-haired Pointer, Italian Coarsehaired Pointer

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Large dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • Great with other pets
  • Great family dog
Living Considerations
Good with children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living if adequately exercised
Size
Large
Height
Males – 58.5 to 69 centimetres at the withers, Females – 56 to 63.5 centimetres at the withers
Weight
Males – 32 to 36.5 kilograms, Females – 28 to 32 kilograms
Coat
Wiry
Energy
Medium
Colour
Brown-roan, orange-roan, white, or white and orange with brown or orange markings
Activities
Conformation, Obedience, Agility, Therapy, Hunting Tests, Tracking, Field Trials
Indoor/Outdoor
Both

Silky Terrier

The friendly, lively Silky Terrier has a true terrier temperament with a zest for life. Originally bred to hunt vermin, this dog is quick and alert with a long, moderately low set body. He is playful, inquisitive and eager to please, making him an exceptional companion. The Silky Terrier requires little exercise but enjoys an occasional game of fetch or an outdoor walk. His fine, smooth coat must be brushed and bathed regularly.

DID YOU KNOW? In the 1800s, Yorkshire Terriers from England were imported to Australia and bred to Australian Terriers to improve the Australian Terrier’s coat colour. The end result was a type of dog known today as the Silky Terrier

ALSO KNOWN AS: Australian Silky Terrier, Silky

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Little toy dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming daily
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Living Considerations
Good with older children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living if adequately exercised
Size
Toy
Height
23 to 25 centimetres
Weight
4 to 5 kilograms
Coat
Puffy double coat
Energy
Medium-long
Colour
Black and tan, blue and tan, blue-silver and tan, grey and tan, silver and tan, or silver-black and tan
Activities
Conformation, Agility, Earthdog Trials
Indoor/Outdoor
Both

Shiba Inu

The bold, spirited Shiba Inu is a Japanese breed originally developed to hunt birds and small game on mountainous terrain. His small, dense body is marked by prick ears and a curled tail on a stunning soft, thick double coat, which should be brushed regularly. Independent, loyal and affectionate, he excels as a watchdog and companion. Moderate exercise from leash walks or in a fenced yard is a must for this active, agile breed.

DID YOU KNOW? In Japanese, the word “shiba” means “brushwood,” describing the breed’s hunting grounds, while “inu” means “dog.” The Shiba Inu is commonly referred to as the “Little Brushwood Dog.”

ALSO KNOWN AS: AJapanese Shiba Inu, Japanese Small Size Dog, Shiba Ken

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Small dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Living Considerations
Good with children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living if adequately exercised
Size
Small
Height
Males – 37 to 42 centimetres, Females – 34 to 39 centimetres
Weight
8 to 10 kilograms
Energy
Medium
Colour
Black and tan, cream, red, or red sesame with white markings
Activities
Conformation, Agility, Hunting, Tracking
Indoor/Outdoor
Both