Roughly 4,000 years ago, Siamese and Tabby cats first appeared in the middle east. Thoughout history, cats have played an importan role in the cultures of many societies, particularly in ANCIENT EGYPT where they were worshipped as Goddesses of fertility and regarded as most sacred.

During the Middle Ages, cats were actively persecuted because they were considered to be evil, especially black cats. It wasn't until the 17th Century that they regained respectability in Western culture and have since grown in their popularity.

Today, there are in excess of 7.0 million cats in Britain alone, making up around 40 different breeds and about 500 varieties.

The Governing Council o the Cat Fancy (GCCF) have classified these breeds into four main groups:-

LONGHAIRS, SHORTHAIRS, SIAMESE and FOREIGN SHORTHAIRS.

WHICH CAT?

Within the cat world, there are to be found the exotic cats such as the Persian and Himalayan Longhairs down to the domestic Tabbies and Shorthairs - the so called "moggies" of the cat world.

If you prefer a pedigree cat, then you can locate a particular breed by writing to such bodies as The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy at 4-5 Penelorlieu, Bridgewater, Somerset, TA6 3PG for details of cat clubs and breeders in your area. There are also several books and magazines devoted to cats which may also help, but be careful in your choice of breeder. Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek recommendations from their satisfied customers, will you?

WHICH GENDER?

Unneutered male cats are called 'entire' Toms. They are usually affectionate, but are prone to straying for long periods and are likely to fight with other cats - a costly business if seriously hurt. Entire males also have a habit of spraying concentrated urine around the boundaries of their territory and which if done indoors, is a most unpleasant smell to the human nose!

Neutered Tom cats, however, are less prone to straying, spraying or fighting and unless you want your entire male for breeding purposes, it is much kinder to have him neutered by a qualified vet.

An entire female cat (Queen) is also affectionate when she wants to be, but when on call, may well stray and return home later to produce a litter of up to eight kittens per multiple-birth. A Queen can have from 1 to 4 litters per year. Here again, unless the female is to be used for breeding purposes, the best way around this potential 'kitten' boom, is to have your female cat neutered. The surgery for both the Queen and the Tom cat is routine and can be carried out on the male any time after five months; a little later for the female. In both cases, you may take your cat home after the operation but it should be kept indoors for a few days to give the wound time to heal. The choice is yours!

WHERE TO LOOK?

Cats and kittens may be found at Barbara's Cat Rescue Service, or at your local Blue Cross, RSPCA and/or the Cat's Protection League. These organizations usually have cats needing a good home and they would be very happy to match you up with a cat of your choice. However, some cats in these shelters are not likely to be in the very best of condition. But please do not be discouraged, for they are often in desperate need of only your loving care to help them back on their paws again. My own cat was a recued Tom.....and he's now in the best of health.

Barbara's Cat Rescue Service

Basic Care

Cats Needing a New Home

A Big Thank You