The Philippine Shorthair, affectionately known as Puspin (short for ‘Pusang Pinoy’ or Filipino cat), is a breed that carries a charm akin to its homeland’s radiant beauty. With their appealing aesthetics, amicable demeanor, and remarkable tenacity, Puspins have warmed the hearts of numerous pet lovers. Eager to learn more about this splendid breed? Continue reading for an extensive breed profile and care sheet.
Breed Overview
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Puspin or Philippine Shorthair Cat |
| Scientific Name | Felis catus |
| Characteristic | Affectionate, Adaptable, Resilient |
| Life Span | 12-15 years |
| Build | Medium-sized, Muscular Built |
| Average Weight | 8-12 lbs |
| Average Height | 9-10 inches at the shoulder |
| Coat Length | Short; Sleek |
| Coat Colors | Variable-; Most commonly White, Black, Gray, Orange, Mixed |
| Coat Pattern | Solid, Bi-color, Tricolor, Tabby |
| Eye colors | Green, Yellow, Blue, Mixed |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Country of Origin | Philippines |
Physical Description
The Philippine Shorthair, or Puspin, is a medium-sized breed exhibiting a sturdy and well-muscled build, reflecting their survivability and adaptability. Weighing an average of 8-12 lbs, these cats showcase a uniformity in physical structure between males and females, with little notable disparity.
In terms of coat characteristics, Puspins pride themselves on their short, sleek fur, which can show a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns. Their coat colors range from solid White, Black, Gray, Orange to mixed colors, commonly displaying patterns such as Bi-color, Tricolor, and Tabby markings.
A characteristic feature in Puspins is the variety in eye colors; Green, Yellow, Blue and even mismatching eyes can be observed in this breed. Their ears are medium-sized, well-spaced, displaying a wider base that tapers to a rounded tip, contributing to their alert and attentive demeanor.
Females carry an elegant grace in their build while males display a slightly more robust structure. Puspins showcase a unique blend of resilience and elegance, an attribute that contributes to their captivating charm.
Behavior and Temperament of the Philippine Shorthair Cat (Puspin)
Puspins are known for an affectionate temperament and demonstrative conduct. They are a blend of warmth, resilience, and high-spirited vigor. Their adaptable nature helps them comfortably adjust to both residential and street scenarios, making them one of the most versatile breeds to consider as a pet.
Puspins are incredibly social, often keen on interacting with their human counterparts, seeking attention, and reciprocating love in their endearing ways. Their playful nature allows for engaging sessions of peek-a-boo and chase, making them great companions for families with kids and elders alike.
Despite their jovial nature, Puspins also identify and respond well to their owner’s emotions, showcasing an incredible level of empathy. Known to be intelligent, Puspins often carry a curious demeanor and take pleasure in exploring their environment.
History and Origin
The Philippine Shorthair (Puspin) is less a creation of selective breeding than a testament to natural survival and adaptability. Named ‘Pusang Pinoy’ (shortened to Puspin), this breed is essentially the indigenous mixed-breed population of the Philippines.
There isn’t any specific person or event marking the discovery of this breed. Puspins evolved naturally over time, adapting to the diverse environmental conditions of the Philippine archipelago. While Puspins do not belong to the category of ‘created breeds’, their charisma and tenacity are no less enchanting.
The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) has adopted the term Puspin to promote respect and care for these humble yet remarkable shorthairs. Despite the absence of a specific pedigree, Puspins are cherished as a signature representation of Filipino pet culture.
Philippine Shorthair Cat (Puspin) Care
Caring for a Puspin is relatively straightforward, thanks to their adaptable nature and innate resilience. Despite being low-maintenance compared to purebred cats, Puspins appreciate regular grooming. Brushing their coat once a week helps keep the fur healthy and shiny and reduces shedding.
Being active cats, Puspins require engagement in the form of regular play and mental stimulation. Cat toys, scratching posts, interactive puzzle games, and frequent playtimes are beneficial for their overall well-being.
As they are adaptive to both indoor and outdoor scenarios, Puspins are comfortable in various living conditions. However, ensuring a safe and comfortable space within the house, especially if they are primarily indoor cats, helps in creating a positive environment.
Common Health Problems
Puspins are generally resilient, but being part of the street cat population, they may have:
- Infectious diseases: Cats can contract diseases such as Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), and Rabies, requiring regular health check-ups and vaccinations.
- Parasitic infestations: Cats may be susceptible to infestations by fleas and worms, necessitating parasite prevention measures.
- Injuries and Accidents: Due to their active nature, they may be vulnerable to injuries and accidents, emphasizing the need for a safe living environment.
Regular vet consultations and keeping up-to-date with vaccinations considerably reduce these risks.
Where to Adopt or Buy a Philippine Shorthair Cat (Puspin)
Rescue centers, animal shelters, and PAWS are excellent places to adopt a Puspin. They are numerous in the Philippines and can often be found in shelters waiting for their forever homes. Since Puspins are not a recognized breed and mostly comprise the stray and feral populations, buying a Puspin is relatively uncommon. The adoption cost is generally minimal, ranging from $50-$100, which typically covers basic healthcare costs.
Diet and Nutrition
A balanced, nutritious diet is vital for Puspins. High-quality commercial cat food that is rich in protein works well for them. Ensure clean water is available at all times and keep them on a feeding schedule depending on their age, size, and activity level. Treats should be limited to avoid obesity.
Comparable Breeds
If you find the Puspin intriguing, similar breeds worth exploring include:
- American Shorthair: Appreciated for their versatile hunting skills and a wide array of coat patterns.
- European Shorthair: Known for their robust health and adaptability, with a wide color spectrum.
- British Shorthair: Has a dense, plush coat and a genial, easy-going temperament.
- Domestic Shorthair: Represents a vast diversity in color and pattern, with a typically spirited yet companionable nature.
For more cat breed profiles, feel free to explore our extensive collection.
FAQs about Philippine Shorthair Cat (Puspin)
What breed of cat is Puspin?
A Puspin is a Philippine Shorthair cat. This term is used to classify the local cats often seen wandering the streets of the Philippines.
What breed is a Pusakal?
A Pusakal is another term for a Puspin. It is a Filipino colloquial term for a street cat in the Philippines.
What is the meaning of Puspin cat?
Puspin is an abbreviation for ‘Pusang Pinoy,’ which translates to ‘Filipino Cat.’ It is commonly used to refer to the local stray or feral mixed-breed cat population in the Philippines.
How do you pronounce Puspin cat?
Puspin is pronounced as Pus-pin, where ‘pus’ sounds like ‘bus’, and ‘pin’ is pronounced like ‘pin’.