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Cat
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The cat (Felis catus), also known as the domestic cat or house cat to distinguish it from other felines, is a small carnivorous species of crepuscular mammal that is often valued by humans for its companionship and its ability to hunt vermin. It has been associated with humans for at least 9,500 years.[3]
A skilled predator, the cat is known to hunt over 1,000 species for food. It can be trained to obey simple commands. Individual cats have also been known to learn on their own to manipulate simple mechanisms, such as doorknobs. Cats use a variety of vocalizations and types of body language for communication, including meowing, purring, hissing, growling, squeaking, chirping, clicking, and grunting.[4] With 69 million of them present in American homes[5], cats are the most or the second most popular pets. They are also bred and shown as registered pedigree pets. This hobby is known as the "Cat Fancy".
Until recently the cat was commonly believed to have been domesticated in ancient Egypt, where it was a cult animal.[6] However a 2007 study found that all house cats are probably descended from a group of as few as five self-domesticating desert wildcats Felis silvestris lybica circa 8000 BC, in the Near East.[2]
Physiology
Size
Diagram of the general anatomy of a male cat.Cats typically weigh between 2.5 and 7 kg (5.5–16 pounds); however, some breeds, such as the Maine Coon, can exceed 11.3 kg (25 pounds). Some have been known to reach up to 23 kg (50 pounds) due to overfeeding. Conversely, very small cats (less than 1.8 kg / 4.0 lb)[7] have been reported.
Skeleton
Cats have 7 cervical vertebrae like almost all mammals, 13 thoracic vertebrae (humans have 12), 7 lumbar vertebrae (humans have 5), 3 sacral vertebrae like most mammals (humans have 5 because of their bipedal posture), and, except for Manx cats, 22 or 23 caudal vertebrae (humans have 3 to 5, fused into an internal coccyx). The extra lumbar and thoracic vertebrae account for the cat"s enhanced spinal mobility and flexibility, compared with humans. The caudal vertebrae form the tail, used by the cat as a counterbalance to the body during quick movements. Cats also have free-floating clavicle bones, which allows them to pass their body through any space into which they can fit their head.[8]
Mouth
Cats have highly specialized teeth for the tearing of meat. The premolar and first molar together compose the carnassial pair on each side of the mouth, which efficiently functions to shear meat like a pair of scissors. While this is present in canids, it is highly developed in felines. The cat"s tongue has sharp spines, or papillae, useful for retaining and ripping flesh from a carcass. These papillae are small backward-facing hooks that contain keratin which also assist in their grooming.
As facilitated by their oral structure, cats use a variety of vocalizations and types of body language for communication, including mewing ("meow" or "miaow"), purring, hissing, growling, squeaking, chirping, clicking, and grunting.[4]
Ears
Thirty-two individual muscles in each ear allow for a manner of directional hearing:[9] a cat can move each ear independently of the other. Because of this mobility, a cat can move its body in one direction and point its ears in another direction. Most cats have straight ears pointing upward. Unlike dogs, flap-eared breeds are extremely rare. (Scottish Folds are one such exceptional mutation.) When angry or frightened, a cat will lay back its ears, to accompany the growling or hissing sounds it makes. Cats also turn their ears back when they are playing, or to listen to a sound coming from behind them. The angle of cats" ears is an important clue to their mood.
Legs
Cats, like dogs, are digitigrades: they walk directly on their toes, the bones of their feet making up the lower part of the visible leg. Cats are capable of walking very precisely, because like all felines they directly register; that is, they place each hind paw (almost) directly in the print of the corresponding forepaw, minimizing noise and visible tracks. This also provides sure footing for their hind paws when they navigate rough terrain.
Like nearly all members of family Felidae, cats have retractable claws. In their normal, relaxed position the claws are sheathed with the skin and fur around the toe pads. This keeps the claws sharp by preventing wear from contact with the ground and allows the silent stalking of prey. The claws on the forefeet are typically sharper than those on the hind feet.[10] Cats can extend their claws voluntarily on one or more paws at will. They may extend their claws in hunting or self-defense, climbing, "kneading", or for extra traction on soft surfaces (bedspreads, thick rugs, etc.). It is also possible to make a cooperative cat extend its claws by carefully pressing both the top and bottom of the paw. The curved claws may become entangled in carpet or thick fabric, which may cause injury if the cat is unable to free itself.
Most cats have five claws on their front paws, and four or five on their rear paws. Because of an ancient mutation, however, domestic cats are prone to polydactyly, and may have six or seven toes. The fifth front claw (the dewclaw) is in a more proximal position than those of the other claws. More proximally, there is a protrusion which appears to be a sixth "finger". This special feature of the front paws, on the inside of the wrists, is the carpal pad, also found on the paws of big cats and dogs. It has no function in normal walking, but is thought to be an anti-skidding device used while jumping.
Skin
Cats possess rather loose skin; this allows them to turn and confront a predator or another cat in a fight, even when it has a grip on them. This is also an advantage for veterinary purposes, as it simplifies injections.[11] In fact, the lives of cats with kidney failure can sometimes be extended for years by the regular injection of large volumes of fluid subcutaneously, which serves as an alternative to dialysis.[12][13]
The particularly loose skin at the back of the neck is known as the scruff, and is the area by which a mother cat grips her kittens to carry them. As a result, cats tend to become quiet and passive when gripped there. This behavior also extends into adulthood, when a male will grab the female by the scruff to immobilize her while he mounts, and to prevent her from running away as the mating process takes place. [14]
This technique can be useful when attempting to treat or move an uncooperative cat. However, since an adult cat is heavier than a kitten, a pet cat should never be carried by the scruff, but should instead have their weight supported at the rump and hind legs, and at the chest and front paws. Often (much like a small child) a cat will lie with its head and front paws over a person"s shoulder, and its back legs and rump supported under the person"s arm.
Senses
Main article: Cat senses
Cat senses are attuned for hunting. Cats have highly advanced hearing, eyesight, taste, and touch receptors, making the cat extremely sensitive among mammals. Cats" night vision is superior to humans although their vision in daylight is inferior. Humans and cats have a similar range of hearing on the low end of the scale, but cats can hear much higher-pitched sounds, up to 64 kHz, which is 1.6 octaves above the range of a human, and even one octave above the range of a dog.[15] A domestic cat"s sense of smell is about fourteen times as strong as a human"s.[16] To aid with navigation and sensation, cats have dozens of movable vibrissae (whiskers) over their body, especially their face. Due to a mutation in an early cat ancestor, one of two genes necessary to taste sweetness may have been lost by the cat family.[17]
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Cats, are believed to be first domesticated by the ancient Egyptians over 8,000 years ago around 2600 BC. They were later venerated as a sacred animal and were even mummified by the Egyptians when they died. It was only in the 19th century that the first pedigree (with a family lineage) breeds were developed. In fact, more than 300 breeds and varieties are recognised now, the main distinguishing characteristics being head shape and the length of hair.
The Domestic cat is one of the 38 species of the cat family or Felidae. They are the descendants of maybe three or four of the wild Felidae species, foremost of which is the Felis silvestris lybica or the African Wild cat. Besides the Pedigree and non pedigree domestic pet cats, there are the Working cats kept for their rodent catching asbility and the Feral cats, the descendants of cats which at one time have been domesticated at least to some extent.
Cats are very independent among the pets, living by their own set of rules. But they need and value companionship and make wonderful pets.These quiet creatures groom themselves and come in a wide variety of colors, coats and generally placid temperaments. Most of them are best suited to indoor as well as outdoor life. You can make a good relationship with these pets and develop mutual understanding, tolerance and respect.
There are numerous breeds of cats. There is the Pedigree or pure bred cats (a cat whose ancestry in a recognized breed has been recorded and registered through at least four generations) and the Non Pedigree or the cross bred cats. It was in the 19th century that the first pedigree (with a family lineage) breeds were developed. Among the pedigree ones itself, there are more than 300 breeds and varieties recognised now, with the main distinguishing characteristics being body type- head shape and the length of hair. The latter feature is, perhaps, the most straightforward method of categorising pedigree and non-pedigree cats.
Depending on their length of hair pure bred cats are classified into long hairs, semi long hairs and short hairs. There are two basic body types, one is "cobby" with a compact sturdy body and a deep chest, broad shoulders and hind quarters, short legs and tail and a short, round head (eg. British short hair and the Persian) and the other non cobby type is slender and lithe with long legs and the head narrow and wedge shaped (eg. the Siamese). There are various intermediate types in between these two extremes. Classification of breeds differ in different countries. The number of cats in particular breeds also varies enormously.
Anyone venturing into the pedigree world as a new comer would be well advised to choose one of the older breeds as larger and longer a breed has been established, the more likely it is that any problems have been bred out. There are so many cats varying greatly in appearance and, to some degree, temperament-from which to choose. Some of the breeds and their features are given below.
PEDIGREE LONG HAIR CATS
Many people are attracted to these cats because of their stunning looks. They are undoubtedly very impressive.
Persian
These are the most popular of the long-haired breeds. Persians will happily take to life as indoor cats. They get on well with other cats other animals and children. Persians are tremendously responsive and become a constant source of joy and delight to their owners. Pleasurable as an unexpected sunbeam, their companionship is close and enduring.
Origin
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Persia
Colours
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Persians come in an astonishing number of patterns and colors, which are divided into seven color divisions for purposes of competition
Temperament
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Sweet, calm, and lovable. They are quiet cats and are well suited to apartment or city life where less vocal cats are appreciated
Features
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They have a broad, round head with a short nose, large eyes, full cheeks, and small round-tipped ears set wide apart and titling forward, low on the head with long ear tufts. The neck should be short and thick, and the body cobby, solid and rounded, deep-chested and broad across the shoulders and hindquarters. The paws should be relatively large, rounded and with good tufts. The coat is long silky, flowing and shiny. Rich ruffs and deep frill on and between the front legs, throwing the head in relief are especially prized. The tail should be short and carried behind, not above the body.
Persians have short heavily-boned legs to support their broad, short bodies. They like to have their feet firmly planted and are not given to high jumping and climbing. Their long flowing coats require an indoor, protected environment. Proper maintenance requires a daily grooming with a metal comb up to an hour to eliminate the potential drawbacks of tangles and hairballs.
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SEMI LONG HAIR CATS
Turkish Van
Although independent, the Turkish Van is a feisty feline that is sure to be at home with any family. Their silky, beautiful coats are a pleasure to groom, and their playful love of water provides much entertainment.
Origin
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Turkey
Colours
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Van
Temperament
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Intelligent, Soft, Active and playful.
Features
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Coat is pure white with the only coloring occurring on the tail and head, in black, blue, cream, red or tortoiseshell. The face should have a blaze of white through the color. Semi-longhaired, the breed"s fur has a cashmere-like texture, and has no undercoat. Thick, strong body. Large, round, slightly slanted eyes. Long, bushy tail. Large ears, resting on top of the head.
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Birman
Known as the Sacred Cat of Burma, Strikingly handsome with its colour point pattern and its pure white toes. Birman is still a relatively uncommon breed. Sign up to receive monthly e-mail reminders for your flea and heartworm medication. The sweet, devoted personality makes the Birman a terrific companion.
Origin
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Burma
Colours
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Seal point, blue point, chocolate point and lilac point.
Temperament
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Intelligent and lively, they have a quiet charm and mix well with children and other animals.
Features
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The Burman is large cat with long, silky hair which tend to wave on the stomach and does not mat or tangle. There is a thick, heavy ruff at the neck. The body should be medium long but stocky, the legs sturdy and medium in length and the paws round, firm and very large with the toes close together. The tail should be medium in length and bushy, and is often displayed as a plume. Their china blue eyes are particularly striking.
The broad, rounded head has a flat area in front of the ears, which are wide, rounded at the tips and spaced well apart. The nose is Roman and the cheeks are full. The body colour should be even, with the point colour confined to the face, ears, legs, a and tail. The white markings on the feet should be symmetrical.
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SHORT HAIRS
Abyssinian
One of the most popular cat breeds. The Abyssinian with a regal bearing, were possibly worshiped by the ancient Egyptians. This cat has also gained significant popularity in cat shows, mostly due to its unique ticked coat colors. They usually mix well with children and other pets and like to join in family activities.
Origin
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Ethopia /Egypt.
Colours
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Ruddy, red, blue and fawn.
Temperament
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Intelligent, inquisitive active, playful and companionable cats.
Features
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The Abyssinian with lithe and muscular body shape has a modified wedge-shaped head, large, alert, pointed ears, and large, expressive, almond-shaped eyes. A ring of dark color on the eyelids accentuates the eyes, making the cat appear to be wearing black eyeliner. The body is long, hard and muscular, with slim, fine-boned legs and feet. Another trait that sets the Abyssinian apart is the ticked or agouti coat pattern, characterized by alternating bands of color on the hair shafts. Each individual hair is decorated with light-colored bands contrasted with dark-colored bands.
The lighter or ground color lies closest to the skin, and the hair shaft ends with a dark tip. This gives the coat a distinctive stippled appearance. The coat is medium in length, long enough to accommodate two or three bands of ticking.
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Egyptian Mau
This fascinating cat is the only natural breed of spotted domestic cat. The black and the blue Maus, make excellent pets.
Origin
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Egypt
Colours
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Silver, bronze, smoke, black and blue.
Temperament
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Very active, intelligent, compassionate.
Features
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The distinctive feature of this cat is its spotted coat, sharply contrasting with the ground colour. The dark spots should ideally be rounded and evenly distributed, although they are often random and run together to form broken stripes. The legs and tail are banded with the darker colour. With expressive gooseberry green eyes, distinctive mascara lines, a worried expression on the face, and a graceful cheetah-like stride.
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Bengal
The Bengal, is a large wild looking spotted coat with short glossy fur. While still rare worldwide, their popularity is growing rapidly. Bengal is domestic in temperament but has retained its exotic, feral look. The Bengal is the most numerous and popular of the spotted domestic breeds.
Origin
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United States.
Colours
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Brown tabby, seal lynx point, seal sepia tabby, seal mink tabby blue, silver, peach and red.
Temperament
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Bengals that are at least fourth generation are usually friendly and confident with their family members.Very athletic, Like being in water.
Features
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The Bengal is an athletic frame. The body is long and very muscular, resembling the leopard cat. The head is a broad modified wedge-shape and is longer than it is wide. Large almond-shaped eyes, set wide apart, and short rounded ears enhance the feral look.
The spots can be black, brown, tan, chocolate or cinnamon and contrast with the background color. Vivid markings with sharp contrast of colors is the mark of a show Bengal. The coat is short with a thick, luxurious, unusually soft texture. Large feet with black paw pads.
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American Bobtail
Their bobbed tails vary in length; a perfect tail should be long enough to stand up over the cat"s back, about 1/3 to 1/2 the length of a full tail. Most breeders will clip the kittens" tails at birth.
Origin
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Unknown.
Temperament
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Domesticated and loving. Pleasing disposition. While livelier than many other breeds, these cats are not overly so. Friendly, inquisitive and watchful.
Features
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Coat length varies from medium to moderately long. Longer coats include a heavy ruff (thick fur) around the neck and haunches, and silky tufts on the ears and nose. The longer fur tufts may appear "shaggy", but it does not mat easily. Tail is fluffy and may be slightly curled.
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Ragdolls
One of the most docile of all cat breeds. Ragdolls are named for their unusual habit of lying limp in your arms. These cats are very loving and make excellent pets.
Colours
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Seal (dark brown) and blue, followed by chocolate and lilac (pinkish gray). The mitted pattern (white chin, mittens and boots) is desirable, but less common.
Temperament
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Very calm, Sociable and tend to bond with their owner. Intelligent. Very well-mannered and are excellent with children.
Features
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Large, thick-boned, heavy cats. Very broad shoulders, chest and paws. Long, thick coat, especially around the neck area. Large, oval eyes are always a deep blue color. Ears are set to the side. Fur on the hind legs is longer than the front.
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