The Asian Cat is a captivating breed that is prized for its striking appearance and charming personality. From its sleek coat to its engaging demeanor, there’s much to admire about this breed. If you’re considering an Asian Cat as your next companion or just curious about this unique breed, read on to discover everything you need to know.
Breed Overview
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Asian Cat |
| Scientific Name | Felis catus |
| Characteristic | Affectionate, social, intelligent |
| Life Span | 12-15 years |
| Build | Medium build, muscular |
| Average Weight | 3.5-6.5 kg (8-14 lbs) |
| Average Height | 30-35 cm (12-14 inches) |
| Coat Length | Short to medium |
| Coat Colors | Wide variety, including self-colored, shaded, smoke, tipped, tabby, and Particolor |
| Coat Pattern | Solid, shaded, smoke, tabby, and tortie |
| Eye colors | Typically green or gold |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Country of Origin | Britain |
Physical Description
Physically, the Asian Cat is a stunning breed characterized by a sturdy, medium build and a well-developed muscular form. These cats typically weigh between 3.5-6.5 kg (8-14 lbs) and stand around 30-35 cm (12-14 inches) tall. They sport a short to medium-length coat that boasts a variety of colors including solids, shades, smokes, tippings, and tabby patterns, making each cat distinct in appearance.
Their round heads sit atop a strong neck, leading to a well-proportioned body that moves with grace and agility. The medium-length ears are wide at the base, sometimes featuring small tufts at the tips, complementing their broad, expressive eyes that shine in shades of green or gold.
Males are typically larger with more pronounced muscle definition, while females generally present a more petite form. Both males and females exhibit an alluring gaze and a plush coat that invites petting, embodying the breed’s alluring aesthetics.
Behavior and Temperament of the Asian
Asian Cats are renowned for their delightful demeanor—intelligent, social, and particularly affectionate, they crave and thrive on interaction with their owners. Willing companions, they enjoy partaking in every aspect of family life, often displaying a puppy-like eagerness to follow their humans around.
They are known to be vocal, with a soft, melodic voice that they use to communicate effectively, whether calling for attention or expressing their needs. Their playful side is forever present, displaying a kittenish zest for a game well into their adult years.
Asian Cats form strong, loyal bonds with their caregivers, and their adaptable nature makes them well-suited to both busy families and single-person households. They’re also known to be good with other pets, making integration into a multi-pet home smoother than some other breeds might experience.
History and Origin
The Asian Cat breed was developed in Britain, and it’s a broad category that encompasses several varieties of cats, all descending from the original Burmese. These cats are not hybrids but rather carefully bred lines that focus on specific traits and colors.
The breed was developed in the latter half of the 20th century when Burmese were crossed with other short-haired breeds to introduce new coat colors and patterns. The precise lineage of the Asian Cat varies, with a particularly noticeable influence from the Chinchilla.
It was Baroness Miranda von Kirchberg who is credited with the creation of the Burmilla, the scene-stealer of the Asian group, in the early 1980s. Over time, this collective has grown to include a variety of recognized categories such as the Bombay and Tiffanie, the long-haired Asian.
Asian Cat Care
Asian Cats are notably low-maintenance when it comes to grooming due to their short coats; however, they still revel in the attention of a weekly brush-through, which helps to bond with the caretaker and keep their coat lustrous. As highly intelligent and active felines, they need a stimulating environment that includes access to toys, scratch posts, and if possible, safe outdoor areas or an enriched indoor play space.
They are well-suited to both indoor and outdoor living but should always be provided with a warm and safe space to retreat to. It’s crucial to maintain their mental well-being with puzzles, interactive feeders, and scheduled playtimes, as their smart minds are always looking for a challenge.
Common Health Problems
The Asian breed is generally healthy; however, being closely related to the Burmese, they are at risk for some genetic health issues. A well-bred Asian should be screened for:
- Hypokalemia: A condition characterized by low blood potassium levels that can cause muscle weakness.
- Craniofacial Defect: Though very rare, this hereditary defect in Burmese lines can sometimes appear in Asian breeds as well.
- Heart Issues: Like many breeds, they may also encounter heart diseases, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
It is advisable to ensure that any breeder shows evidence of health screenings for these conditions and others that may affect the breed.
Where to Adopt or Buy Asian
Asian Cats can be sourced from animal shelters, breed-specific rescues, and specialized breeders. If purchasing from a breeder, ensure that they are ethical and responsible, providing health clearances. The cost for an Asian Cat typically ranges from $600 to $1200, depending on lineage and breeder.
Diet and Nutrition
The best diet for an Asian Cat includes high-quality cat food formulated to match their age, size, and activity level. Be mindful of the calorie content to prevent obesity. It’s generally recommended to steer clear of foods with excessive fillers or artificial additives. Occasional treats are enjoyed, and the provision of fresh water should be constant. Supplements may be advised by a vet if necessary.
Comparable Breeds
If you find the Asian Cat intriguing, similar breeds worth exploring include:
- Burmese: The original inspiration for the Asian, known for its close human bonds.
- Chinchilla: Known for its beautiful silver coat and gentle nature.
- Bombay: Exhibiting a similar presence and sociable traits.
- Tiffanie: The long-haired relative, with a luxurious coat and affectionate temperament.
For more cat breed profiles, feel free to explore our extensive collection.
FAQ’s about Asian
Are Asian Cats suitable for families with children?
Asian Cats are known to be affectionate and tolerant, making them suitable for families with children.
How active are Asian Cats?
They are quite active and playful, requiring regular interaction and mental stimulation to stay happy.
Do Asian Cats require a lot of grooming?
Despite their plush coats, Asian Cats are relatively low-maintenance, needing only weekly brushing.
Can Asian Cats adapt to living indoors exclusively?
Yes, Asian Cats can thrive indoors as long as they have enough space and stimulation.