California shining cat: description of the breed

Domestic small leopard from the USA

• Fact 1:
  To this day, the Californian cat breed remains one of the rarest and most expensive
• Fact 2:
  Individuals of both sexes have well-developed muscles and are quite large in size: weight up to 7-8 kg.
• Fact 3:
  There are very few nurseries for Californian cats, and they are located in the United States
• Fact 4:
  The Californian cat may scratch if hurt.

The California Shiny cat breed originated in California in 1976, thanks to the idea of ​​writer and screenwriter Paul Casey, who dreamed of protecting endangered wild leopards from the hands of poachers. Five years earlier, Paul Casey had been on a work trip to Tanzania (East Africa), where an unusual thought came to his mind: if a person had the opportunity to keep a small tame leopard in his home, he would no longer have the desire to exterminate real leopards and other large wild cats. .

Paul Casey tried for a long time to create a breed of domestic cats that looked like smaller copies of leopards, and he partially succeeded. To form the genotype base of the new breed, he used the following breeds:

• Abyssinian;
• Angora;
• Siamese;
• Maine;
• American Shorthair;
• British Shorthair;
• Egyptian Mau. This cat was used for crossing with individuals of the 11th generation in order to consolidate in the new breed such characteristics as a spotted color, developed muscles and a convex forehead characteristic of leopards.

Despite the “wild” appearance of the resulting new breed, only domestic cats took part in its formation.

To this day, the Californian cat breed remains one of the rarest and most expensive. And only a few organizations recognize it as an independent breed, in particular TICA and ACA. The breed has not yet received recognition from international felinological organizations.

Breed characteristics

Miniature domestic leopards are remembered for their predatory appearance and civilized habits. The inherited outward wildness plays into contrast with the friendly character. Makes the cat an object of adoration for its owners. Who wouldn't want to play with a wild predator and feel safe? Pull his soft fur, tease him and stroke him gently. The California Radiant cat makes you feel tamed and loved by its owner at the same time. From the leopard, the shining cat received not only spectacular colors, but also other characteristics. Graceful, smooth gait, developed muscles, skeletal structure.

The standards prescribe a number of characteristic features of the breed. The medium-sized wedge-shaped head has soft outlines. Prominent cheekbones are set high, a slightly convex forehead, and a well-defined chin. The horns are clearly visible. Straight small nose. The ears, slightly rounded at the ends, are set wide apart. Large oval eyes are set slightly slanted. The color of the iris is in harmony with the main coat color. Mainly yellow with copper or golden undertones. There are blue-eyed Californians. Green eye color is considered unacceptable for the breed.

The long, strong neck is cylindrical in shape. The body resembles a rectangle. The body is flexible, muscular, slender. The cat's legs are long and strong. They resemble the paws of a cheetah. The front ones are slightly shorter than the rear ones. The domestic leopard walks with a low, creeping gait. It's like he's sneaking around and hunting. This gait complements the predatory image. This is due to the structure of the front paws, which form a 90-degree angle with the elbows. A long tail. Uniform in thickness. The fluffy tip is rounded. Definitely black. Other colors are not acceptable. The weight of an adult is from 4 to 8 kilograms. The short fur is thick and soft, feeling like plush. Longer on the belly and tail.

The main asset of the Californian breed is its color. There are two main types: snow leopard (leopard) and royal radiant. The first is characterized by a snow-white color with black spots. A tawny or bronze coat color with round or oval dark spots indicates a royal, shining cat. The spots must be clear and contrasting.

Another interesting feature of the breed is that at birth, snow leopard kittens are completely white. Royal shining kittens are born black. Spots begin to appear with age.

Why "shining"?

The description of this breed should begin with deciphering the name. Everything is clear with the first part - it appeared in California. But what about the second part? Its essence is that the ancestors of this animal traveled with their owners, who traded gold. Dust particles settled on the wool, and it began to glow. Over time, shiny hairs became an integral part of the fur coat. This feature has been inherited. Hence the name.

Most likely, this is just a fairy tale. But it is true that the spotted coat of kittens of this breed is surprisingly smooth and shiny.

Another interesting feature of the breed, which brings it closer to its wild fellow leopards, is its flexibility and mobility. Such cats are very active and rarely sit in one place.

History of the breed

Legend has it that during the gold rush, cats helped prospectors find gold mines. Californian golden sand got on the fur of animals. It shone and shimmered.

However, the real origin of the breed is associated with dramatic events. In 1971, famous Hollywood director Paul Casey goes to Africa. The purpose of the trip was to shoot a film about wildlife. By the will of fate, he ends up in the famous Olduvai George Canyon. There they tell him about a terrible tragedy. Poachers killed the last leopard living in the canyon for its skin.

The story shocks Paul. He comes up with a plan. He sets a truly noble goal - to save wild cats from extermination. To do this, he contacts breeders. He sets them the task of breeding a pet that looks like a leopard. The idea was simple. People will associate predatory cats with their spotted pets. They will feel sorry for killing wild animals for fur.

Ten years later, the goal was achieved. Siamese, Angora, Abyssinian genes were mixed to obtain the result. Egyptian Mau completed the look. It is to them that the Californian shining cat owes its spots. Miniature leopards were registered in 1985 by the TICA association.

Peter Lysaya

Peter Bald may actually be ugly at first glance. They are thin and muscular with a narrow head and large ears. This species is the result of crossing the Oriental Shorthair and Hairless, which is why they can sometimes be hairless. This cat plays with children and other pets and is quite vocal. They are also very loyal to their owners, intelligent and energetic, so playing with them is a must. This variety typically costs between $800 and $4,000.

Peter Lysaya

Character and psychology

The character of the Californian shining cat is completely opposite to its predatory appearance. Friendly, flexible pets conquer all household members. Their playful nature makes mustachioed pets excellent playmates. Spotted friends are sociable. Ready to follow their owner. Take part in his affairs. Mini leopard does not like loneliness. He tries in every way to attract attention. Treat all family members equally.

A shining cat is not a cat that walks on its own. Very social. In addition, natural sensitivity allows you to detect changes in the owner’s mood. Come to your arms in moments of sadness or not touch at all. Despite their wild appearance, they are not aggressive or vindictive. They will prefer to bypass the offender and will not seek revenge.

A Californian remains a hunter at heart. Living in a private home awakens instincts. The hosts must be ready for trophies. A caught mouse or bird may end up on the porch of the house. For the same reason, you should avoid contact with small domestic rodents, fish or parrots. They will live peacefully and harmoniously with their brothers. Dogs will not be pleasant company for them. Conflicts cannot be avoided.

A distinctive feature is the hyperactivity of cats. The lack of toys will be a reason for cat tricks. Things left unattended will find use in your pet's playful paws. High jumpers will conquer all sorts of peaks in the house.

A sharp mind helps the spotted pet quickly absorb information and remember commands. Cats are easy to train.

Psychological picture

Despite their menacing appearance and size, California Speckled cats are very pleasant to talk to, friendly, responsive and playful. They have an excellent, flexible character, are easy to get around and affectionate. They are very energetic and love to play, and need human attention and affection just like any other breed. N are aggressive, but not phlegmatic. Among the breeds this is the “golden mean”. They get along well with other cats in the house, but there may be problems with dogs, especially if the dog begins to defend its territory.

Application

The California Spangled Cat was created to save feral cats from extermination. Paul Casey's goal was to draw people's attention to the senseless killing of animals with beautiful skins. The task was completed.

The new breed was loved by breeders. It's hard to resist the charm of an outwardly predatory cat with the character of a loyal friend.

Price policy

Since California Radiant (speckled) cats are practically not common in the world outside the country of origin, their cost is quite high. The exact cost of each individual of this breed must be negotiated individually with the breeder, because the price of the cat will depend on your personal desires. Premium and show cats with all the necessary shots and vaccinations will cost a pretty penny. Males will cost significantly less, and breeding specimens for breeding will be even cheaper.

How to choose a kitten

When choosing a kitten, a potential owner will face a number of difficulties. Firstly, it is almost impossible to acquire a spotted friend in Russia. Nurseries exist in the USA and Europe. Secondly, the Californian Shining is considered one of the rarest and most expensive breeds. How much can rare kittens cost? The average price varies from 120,000 to 200,000 rubles. It is best to turn to American breeders. It is recommended to reserve a kitten in advance. There is a fee for booking.

The nursery must first be checked for reliability. A conscientious breeder is obliged to provide complete information about the kitten’s pedigree. When acquiring a new friend, the owner receives a package of documents for the animal. Metrics and veterinary passport.

Your choice should be on an energetic and curious baby. Healthy kittens have shiny fur. Pay attention to characteristic spots. Clear outlines. Rectangular or round shape. Triangular or square shapes of spots are possible. There should be stripes on the face, chest, hind legs and tail. In these places, spots are unacceptable for a purebred kitten.

Color

The coloring of this breed is one of its main advantages. There are two varieties of colors: snow leopard and royal shining. Snowy is distinguished by its completely white coat, covered with contrasting black spots, and its eyes are light blue. Kittens are born completely white at first and later develop spots.

Royal shining cat kittens are born black and only as they grow older the color changes - first, a pattern begins to appear in the upper part of the body. The pattern can be crystals, rounds, oval, rectangular and triangular. Designs such as rings, scales and sickle-shaped designs are not acceptable. The spots are evenly scattered over the body, grouped into rosettes; the body must be spotted, and the head, chest and legs are allowed to be striped.

There are no nurseries in Ukraine and Russia that breed these cats. If you wish, you must buy this animal in California.

• Price in Russia – from 105,000 rubles including reservation;
• Price in Ukraine – from 45,000 hryvnia.

It is recommended to buy a kitten from a professional nursery, which will provide the following package of documents:

1. Pedigree and metrics.
2. Veterinary passport.
3. Green card.
4. Contract of sale.
5. The breeder is obliged to show the conditions of detention and the parents.
6. He should also conduct a consultation on the care and maintenance of the kitten and talk about its characteristics.
7. If you are unable to come personally to pick up the animal, the breeder will arrange its delivery for a fee.

It is important to understand that the purchase of such a rare animal must be approached responsibly, taking into account all the nuances, carefully studying and reading all the documents provided by the breeder. https://www.youtube.com/embed/duxzIn7Otsw

Features of care

Despite its exotic appearance, caring for a shiny cat does not cause any trouble for the owner. An active pet will love a big home. If this is not possible, then it is advisable to equip a play area. Make your pet happy with toys. Walking along the street on a harness will bring pleasure to the spotted Californian.

Water procedures no more than once a month. Otherwise, the fur will lose its natural shine. A hairdryer is contraindicated for the same reason.

A couple of times a week you should pay attention to your eyes and ears. If necessary, clean carefully with a cotton swab.

Eating solid foods or periodically brushing your teeth will help prevent the formation of tartar.

Toyger

Their name comes from their appearance, which resembles a miniature tiger. Finding a breeder can be the hardest part of finding a Toyger and, when you find one, they can cost anywhere from $300 to $2000. This type is also known for their wonderful temperament as being very affectionate, intelligent and friendly with children and strangers. Although this type resembles a tiger, they have different personalities.

Toyger

Nutrition

The California shining cat is unpretentious in its choice of food. The diet can include both dry or liquid food, as well as natural food. The focus should be on balance. An indicator of the correctness of the chosen diet is cat hair. With the right menu, it will shine and shimmer.

Natural food can consist of raw frozen meat or sea fish. Fermented milk products are suitable, but not milk itself. Vegetables, herbs and grains will have a beneficial effect on digestion. Vitamin balance must be maintained with a mineral complex. Fresh water is also essential for health.

Salt and spices are considered forbidden foods.

Kittens should be fed five times a day. An adult pet is transferred to two meals a day.

Thanks to its natural activity, the miniature leopard is not prone to excess weight.

Canadian Sphynxes

The Sphynx is not completely hairless, despite the lack of fur. They have a coat that is usually associated with the color peach. Sphynx cats are known for their interesting personalities and affection for their owners. They often snuggle, probably due to their lack of fur, and are therefore always looking for a source of warmth. They are the result of breeding a random hairless cat with a mother known as Beckcross. This means that this variety comes with its own share of potential health problems. The Sphinx can cost from $600 to $3000.

Canadian Sphynxes

Health

Artificial origin did not have any adverse effects on the health of the Californian cat. Genetic and hereditary diseases were avoided. The average life expectancy is 12-15 years. There are also twenty-year-old centenarians. Maintaining an active lifestyle, a balanced diet and regular visits to the veterinarian will help you live a long and happy life.

Savannah

This variety of pet originated from a cross between the Serval and the Siamese. In other words, crossbreeding between wild, African and domestic. Savannahs have very distinctive features: they have a tall, slender style and look very exotic. They tend to have the spotted appearance of their wild ancestors. They are a very loyal breed and are often compared to dogs because they will allow you to walk on a leash.

Be careful, there are different opinions when it comes to the temperament of the Savannah because they are a new breed. They can be very aggressive or very social. Savannah can cost you anywhere from $1,200 to $20,000.

Savannah

Mating

Features of breeding the Californian shining cat are as follows. The first attempts at mating can begin at 1-1.5 years. Be sure to skip the first two heats. The date should take place in the cat's territory. Otherwise, the Californian will disrupt the event. Pregnancy is easy. Childbirth is natural. Usually 5-7 kittens are born. It is worth handing them over to new owners no earlier than after two months.

Captivating beauty, predatory grace and good-natured disposition captivate at first sight. The California Spangled Cat is more than just a pretty accessory. Thanks to her playful and affectionate nature, she becomes a full-fledged part of the family. The noble purpose of creation exceeded expectations. It was possible not only to draw attention to the existing problem of extermination of wild animals. We managed to create a pet leopard with the soul of a faithful friend.

Scottish lop-eared

This variety comes from the name of its Scottish origin. A special feature is the shape of his ears, which are folded back. This breed is popular due to its adaptability with children or other pets in the household. They are known for their soft voices and their habit of sleeping on their backs. In addition, many owners admit that they are loved for their desire to sit in the Buddha position, for their beautiful paws. This type typically costs between $200 and $2,500.

Scottish lop-eared