Home |
The purpose of this page is to provide information regarding the history, general care and provide examples of some of the breed of cats that exist. There are links to history, cat care and breeds that are easily accessible. I am also debunking some misinformation regarding the breeds that are listed. If you like cats or not, this page will have I think, some valuable information about cats and you can walk away knowing more about the world of cats. So take your time reading and click on the links and have fun exploring.
Cats are thought to have evolved from a small animal called Miacis wihich lived 50 million years ago. Miacis is also thought to be the ancestor of bears, dogs, and racoons. The cat family began to appear 40 million years ago. The domisticated cat is thought to be a direct descendant of an African wildcat that Egyptians tamed about 3500 B.C. Egyptians honored cats because they kept rodents away from their grain and kept the rodent population down. Over time, the dometicated cat spread from Egypt to the Middle East, Asia and then to Europe. Over the centuries, the cat went from being revered to being considered evil. In the Middle Ages cats were killed because they were thought to be witch's familiars or the pet of the Devil. It is thought that due to the low population of cats, the rodent population grew which helped spread the Black Death. Fortunately, over time the cat is now considered good, affectinate animal and pet.
Before you adopt a cat it is a good idea to do some research regarding cats. Different breeds come in various sizes and shapes. Some are short and stocky and some are long and tall in height. Weight can also vary from 6 pounds to 20 pounds depending upon the breed. Having some knowledge about cats can help you pick out the right cat for you and your family. Once you have chosen the cat you need to do a few things to make the transition easier on you both. First, make sure you have (food, a food dish, a water dish, and a litter box). Do not put food and water dish next to the litter box, cats are fastidious and will not like their food near the litter box. Show the cat where the litter box is so there are not any accidents. Your cat will need time to get used to their new home and you, so be patient and loving to your new family member.
An important matter to consider is taking the cat to the vet. The vet will need to check your cat for worms, fleas, and any viruses. Your cat will get shots for Rabies and Feline Leukemia. Feline Leukimia is a deadly disease that will kill a cat within days and it is highly contagious to other cats. Humans are not affected by this. It is important for them to be screened for this and receive their shots. Talk to your vet regarding disease and basic first aid for your cat in case it becomes sick or hurt. Also, you may have to consider neutering, spaying and declawing your cat. Make the best choice for you and your cat. With proper care, your cat can live up to 10-18 years. Your cat will be around for many years to give entertainment, companionship and love.
There is so much more to learn about cats and their personalities and needs. I have touched on some of the basics of care and the type of breeds that are less known. To learn more, go to Cat Fancier Association (CFA), American Cat Fancier Association (ACFA) and the above link-The International Cat Association (TICA) to learn more about cats. Regardless of the breed and where it came from; a breeder or animal shelter, the cat you pick out will be special to you and will give you endless love, companionship and joy.