Cat Breeds of the World: Europe
By Vanessa Tolentino
Cat Breeds of the world: Europe! As we continue our trip around the globe, we find ourselves in Europe! In Europe cats had a bad reputation throughout history. They were often associated with witchcraft and bad luck. During the Black Plaque, they were given some work as they helped eradicate vermin, similar to their job in Ancient Egypt. After being denounced multiple times in different periods in history, cats were finally starting to become acceptable house pets in the seventeenth century and have stayed a staple furry companion since then. What a relief! I couldn’t imagine my life without cats. Here is a list of five unique cat breeds that hail from Europe!
1.Russian Blue:
Russian Blues are known not only for their beautiful sleek blue coats and green eyes, but for their small friendly faces. They have thick double coats with silver tips that sometimes make it appear as if the cat’s fur is shimmering. Russian Blues are a naturally occurring breed of cat that first appeared outside of Russia in 1875, where it was called the Archangel Cat. Personality wise, Russian Blues are kind and empathetic but require a lot of attention to avoid destructive behaviour. If you have a Russian blue check out our blog on how to make aDIY puzzle feeder to help keep them entertained.
2.Scottish Fold:
All Scottish Folds can trace their ancestry back to a farm cat named Susie, who was found in Perthshire, Scotland in 1961. One of her kittens was acquired by a cat breeder who started breeding Scottish Fold kittens in 1966. The distinctive ears
of a Scottish Fold come from a gene mutation that causes the cartilage to fold forward. Scottish Folds are actually born with straight ears but they begin to fold downwards at around three weeks of age. Some breeders have been able to produce Scottish Fold kittens with ears that lay completely flat on their head. They are considered very sweet cats that
get extremely attached to their owners.
3.Norwegian Forest Cat:
Norwegian Forest Cats are a natural breed of cat that sports long, thick fur, best suited for the cold climates from which they originate from. It is said that the ancestors of Norwegian Forest Cats worked as mousers on Viking Ships, responsible for, of course, catching mice. They have strong builds and can be quite large. Their fur is water resistant in order to help them survive cold winters. Norwegian Forest Cats love to play games and are always looking to be a part of the action,
however, they do not tolerate other high energy animals very well. so probably best not to mix with a new energetic kitten.
4.Ukranian Levkoy:
Here’s a strange looking kitty! Ukranian Levkoys look similar to a cross between a Sphynx and a Scottish Fold and that would be half correct! They are actually a cross between Scottish Folds and another hairless Russian breed known as a Donskoy. Levkoys are a relatively new breed, having been created in the last 20 years. They are friendly and personable and can come to enjoy the company of other pets.
5.Devon Rex:
Devon Rex cats first appeared in the 1950s. Known for their wavy coats and small frames, they are thought of to be hypoallergenic, although this has not been scientifically proven. Similar to a Cornish Rex, Devon Rex cats have a short curly coat. Some people call them “alien cats” due to their strange appearance. They have small faces and wide ears, often sporting whiskers that are also curled. Devon Rexes are huge cuddle bugs with a love of play and will often follow their owners from room to room.
Check out all the worlds cat breeds here
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