The World Cup is in full force, and to celebrate the games, LazyPaw Animal Hospitals is putting the spotlight on some jaw-dropping exotic cat breeds from around the world.
The Siberian
The Siberian is the national cat of Russia; the rare breed was adopted by former President Dmitry Medvedev. The cat, Dorofei, was featured on a non-currency banknote issued on the International Day of St. Petersburg’s Cats. Siberians are the second largest domesticated cat, sometimes exceeding 20 pounds. The cats have large, upturned eyes and three dense layers to their coats. Some Siberians have lower levels of the protein that causes allergies in many people, making them a more ideal choice for people with allergies. However, they also shed quite a bit as they molt seasonally, developing thicker winter coats and shedding them for summer.
European Shorthair
The European Shorthair is the continent’s most common feline. It’s the oldest breed of cat in continental Europe, tracing its roots back to the Roman Empire. They spread throughout Europe as generals brought them along conquests and found new homes as value mouse hunters on farms. Also called the Celtic Shorthair, the animal’s short, dense coat makes it easy for them to clean themselves and get rid of parasites. Eyes can be blue, amber, green, or a combination. Grooming is simple since the coat isn’t long. These independent wonders bond well with their families, but can be territorial around other cats.
Arabian Mau
The Arabian Mau is one of the oldest natural cat breeds, with a history of more than 1,000 years. It was only recently recognized as an official breed because it has long been known as a common street cat who has been wandering the desert for eons. They are active at night so they could survive the hot desert sun, where temperatures often go above 125 degrees. Their saliva acts as a sweat barrier that evaporates and lifts heat from their bodies. They are black, white, grey, or brown and have large, pointed ears that further help them dissipate heat. The temperament is hearty and social, and their short hair makes them easy to groom.
Have questions about which kind of cat might be best for your own little world at home? Call us at LazyPaw Animal Hospitals to schedule time to chat with one of our expert animal surgeons. We know everything about furry friends, and we’re passionate about helping people connect with their ideal critters and providing a lifetime of top quality veterinary services.