There are so many different types of pinto Arabian that it is a mind boggling set of math to breed some of these mares every year.  Great pinto horses come from a ton of great places, and a ton of great breeds, so the variety is staggering in discipline as well.  If finding the spotted horse of your dreams becomes a goal of yours in the near future, take some time to learn about the different types of pinto out there, and make very sure you are ready to be owned by one!

 Aside from that, I give you this final warning:

You will buy one, and it will then own your soul.  I have no clue why, only that black and white mares are the very worst divas in this regard, but I swear if you open up their skulls, the brain is spotted inside.  It isn’t a bloodline issue, it has to be on the gene for spots.  Solid siblings do not seem to be this way, even full siblings raised together.  They can open any gate, are way too intelligent for their own good, and will take sick pleasure in destroying the things you and other horses have the unmitigated nerve to claim is yours.  I have had mine army crawl under semi trucks delivering our gravel, rip wiper blades off of that same semi, climb ladders three rings and two and a half hooves up to reach apples in trees, fist fight their peers over a naked Barbie doll stolen from the earth in the back yard, refuse to relinquish their prize when you go to take it away, attempt to climb into the cab of my Tacoma pickup, attempt to climb into the bed of my same Tacoma, steal, without shame, blankets, hammers, saddles, and good Lord knows what else, and drop head and charge coyote packs circling their owner in a field.  Males not so much as females, but pinto Arabian horses are in every way a unique personality, and putting up with them takes a good sense of humor to say the least.

Good luck.

Colors Allowed and General Appearance

There are in fact three true patterns of pinto Arabian.  The overo is a random, splashy pattern of lacey markings that almost never breaks white across the back or chest, often the horse bears a solid mane and tail, and though it may have a completely white ribcage and neck, may actually have four dark legs as well.  Some may have blue eyes, or even one blue one dark eye, or an eye that is both!  Tobiano is almost an opposite pattern, consisting of smooth large ribbons of patches that cover various parts of the body and almost always the legs.  They seem to throw similar patterns down family lines, and though no two are identical, you can tell most relatives with some ease.  They have dark eyes and usually a lot of face markings.  Tovero horses have both patterns, and though most of the time tobiano seems to be the dominate pattern visually, there are differences to be seen.  Capable of having blue eyes, they will also have ragged lacey patterns around their large tobiano blotches.  Some are what might be called “medicine hat”, a white horse with only color on its ears.

Pinto Arabian History

Like palomino and buckskin versions of the same, large programs of pinto Arabians have been more of a novelty for big purebred breeders than anything else in the past.  Now, things are different, with higher percentages and better bloodlines for colored animals than ever before.  Still, there are no pure bred pinto Arabian horses, and anyone claiming to own one is outright lying about it. Most likely they have a sabino animal with enough white to be called “pinto”.  It is not true pinto, and just as a birthmark would, will not necessarily pass to the animal’s foals.  Several programs have tried in recent years to create purebred Arabian pinto horses, and all of the ones I have ever seen have ended tragically with a mostly white animal not living to see sexual maturity, and I personally feel promoting such defects is irresponsible at best.

Similar Breeds of Horse

Again as with buckskins, pinto Arabians are a color first, though you will find a home in several other breeds should you need a horse without Arabian blood.  The Paint Horse registry honors both tobiano and overo patterns, and are the true cowboy pony of the old Wild West.  If the rampant lameness plaguing the Paint industry currently is a turn off to you, try the American Saddle bred Horse.  These have been working plantations since before Wyatt Earp was a gleam in his father’s eye.  If neither appeals to you, perhaps the Tennessee Walker breed is more your style.  I have seen some amazing patterns on these guys too, and their owners say that once you go Walker you never go back!

Note the sunburn in the mare's pink skin, peeling into her coat as it heals.

Care of the Pinto Arabian Horse

If you are lucky enough to have high percentage Arabian pinto horses, odds are good they have great feet regardless of hoof color.  I have found that the lower percentages that tail back to Paint horses have poorer feet.  I don’t have this issue in horses trailing back to other registries, so I feel it has far less to do with the whole “white hoof” issue than it does the issues also crippling modern Paint horses.  The biggest issues I have with my pinto horses are specifically the sunburns on noses, eyebrows, and bottoms, no surprise, if they have pink skin there.   Odd thing, some of them burn more than others, and some of them burn some years and not others.  I am really not sure why as they all receive the same care.  I also have noticed that my tobiano horses are quicker to get mud fever if the little wretches decide to beauty bathe in the back muck pond, but it is only in very extreme winters that are really warm here in Western Washington, areas that don’t typically freeze and thus provide an ideal environment for bacterial growth.

Like all Domestic Horses, the genus for the Pinto Arabian is Equus Caballus.

Related posts:

1. The Buckskin Arabian: Fact and Fiction
2. Arabian Horses for Sale, to Pay or Not to Pay

It certainly seems like every year I see more and more people claiming to have “pure bred buckskin” Arabian colts for sale.  And for the unlucky few who purchase these animals, it means years of failed breedings to mares that will never bear colored foals.  There are some truths to buckskin Arabians that every fancier needs to know, and as someone who has been in the breed as long as I have I can tell you what a little bit of information can really save you, in money, heartache, and years.

                The cold reality is that pure bred Arabian horses come in exactly three true colors (with minimal debate as to shade variations), and they are black, bay, and chestnut.  Every purebred Arabian on the planet is born one of these three base colors, and some of them carry the modifier to grey out.  You will notice in the four colors mentioned that buckskin is nowhere to be found.  True dilute does not exist in pure bred animals, and so, as much as it may break your heart to hear it, there are simply no pure bred buckskin Arabian horses.  There are a very few registered high percentage animals, but they are extremely rare, and beyond expensive should you actually find one.

Colors Allowed and General Appearance

High percentage buckskin Arabians tend to be exactly that, buckskin, with all the traits, personality quirks, and genetics of pure bred animals.  Like all buckskins, they come in several shades, ranging from so sooty they look to be bay, to so lightly colored they are almost white.  Being a bay horse with one dilute gene, they will always have darker points and a lighter body, and should they also possess a chestnut gene, can bear palomino foals if bred correctly.  Many buckskin Arabian horses have a hint of iridescence to their coat, and silver and buttermilk buckskin are some of the most desirable shades, though I have never seen a bad looking honey gold buckskin either.  True buckskins lack primitive markings and shouldn’t have dorsal or leg stripes.   Some lighter animals sport amber eyes, though blue is only present in animals with pinto heritage, not something seen in high percentage Arabian buckskins.

Buckskin Arabian History

              There isn’t much to say about the history of buckskin Arabians, as they haven’t been popular for very long.  You really don’t see them starting to pop up much before about nineteen ninety five or so, as most breeders considered breeding pure bred mares to part bred stallions a poor use for the mare, opting instead to breed the mares to purebred Arabian stallions.  This made the business of breeding a quality dilute stallion, regardless of his attributes, difficult and the high cost of pure bred mares was a severe hindrance to such programs.  Even today, there are few programs capable of producing many buckskin Arabian foals in any year, though the quality of those foals is better with each generation. DNA testing and color study in equuds has contributed greatly to this, as now breeders are forced to “put up or shut up” so to speak, and random claims of buckskin cannot simply stand uncontested at the altar of doctored photos and carefully done clipping jobs.

Similar Breeds of Horse

As the buckskin Arabian is a color first and an Arabian second, one might consider the less costly buckskin Morgan horse.  Though not as flashy, the Morgan is a very talented and versatile companion capable of both showing and working, much like the Arabian.  A gaited horse in its own respect, the Morgan has a rich history going back to the glory days of horse ownership, and though he has more humble beginnings than that of the Arabian, it bears mentioning that Morgans do actually come in pure bred Buckskin, and are an icon of the independant American spirit.

Care of the Buckskin Arabian Horse

              It goes without saying that the buckskin Arabian will require fresh water and good food twice a day, like any other horse, but I have noticed that some of my diluted Arabians have other needs, which are separate certainly from that of their pure bred and non colored counterparts.  The most drastic of which seems to be that the diluted hair, for whatever reason, makes for a poorer winter coat.  At first I thought this was simply a condition in the genetic line, as most of mine are related at least in some way, but I have found similar comments made by others in this field, ranging from fifty percent horses all the way up to my highest percentage stallion, who is over ninety nine percent.  Odd though it is, the full siblings of these animals who were born either chestnut or bay(both non colored, or non dilute as it were) grow more than enough coat on their own for warmth, and it is my opinion that for whatever reason the diluted hair in both palomino and buckskin makes for a thinner winter coat.  A good, well fitting blanket will be a friend to any buckskin Arabian in my experience.

Like all Domestic Horses, the genus for the Buckskin Arabian is Equus Caballus.

Related posts:

1. Arabian Horses for Sale, to Pay or Not to Pay

Russian Blue cats are unusual cats, similar to color as the Weimaraner breed of dog in color.  Most cat people hate their cats being compared in any way to any member of the canine world, but none can deny that both creatures are striking, and for the same reason.  The delicate blue hue of the Maltese cat set against those jewel like eyes make the Russian Blue cat an exotic pet like no other feline. 

Colors Allowed

The only shade allowed to show to championship status is the pale blue shade, with the lighter of the shades being preferable.  The cat does come in white and black shades as well, and there are one or two programs out there which cater to those rare kittens.  But if you ask, more people prefer the old familiar shade of soft blue against bright yellow eyes.  In any case, more important than shade, the physical structure of the cat, and how it moves.  If a show cat is a must, lean to the lighter shades as they tend to do better than darker cats.

About the Russian Blue

The Russian Blue is a small to medium sized cat of varying design, due to the cross breeding used to save the breed.  They are short haired and have a minimal grooming requirement.  Generally they are fine structured animals with mild sweet, easy voices that they are not frequently used.  These are shy animals, and they are not overly fond of strange people.  Docile and gentle, they are best for older people and adults with quiet lifestyles.  They are the essential “cat”, and will not be up your back end all day long and are more than happy to give their owners personal space.  Russian Blue cats like toys, and love to play with their favorite humans.  Russian Blues are healthy and hardy cats and are typically born in litters of two to four.  Green eyes and round paws, with a gentle face make up the Russian Blue.

History of the Russian Blue Cat

    All blue cats used to be called Maltese blue cats, and the Russian Blue cats were also called Archangel cats, after the area they supposedly came from.  Legend has it that they were wild and hunted by local trappers for their beautiful pelt, which would explain their distaste of strange humans.   In any event they came from Northern Russia in the 1800’s.  Supposedly they came from Russia and became favorites of Queen Victoria, who also sported many blue Persians as well.   Russian Blue cats were first exhibited at London’s Crystal Palace in 1875, and many referred to them as the Archangel cat.  They were nearly extinct with the onset of World War Two; many cat fanciers lacked the means and ability to provide for their chosen breeds at the time.  Several breeds were crossed in to save the Russian Blue, and this explains the wide variety in shapes and sizes.  The foundation in the breed hails mostly from Britain and Sweden, and in 1949 the breed was officially accepted to the CFA.

Similar Breeds of Cat

Russian Blue kittens are still pretty rare, and are likely to be very expensive when you do find a quality litter, so if it is the lovely blue color you crave it can also be found in the British Short Hair.  There are a fair few breeds out there resembling the Russian Blue kittens, and they will be on a lower pay scale than such a rare breed will be.  I have even seen barn kitties offered in boxes for free with the lovely color of the Russian blue so if it is simply the color you crave than keep your eyes peeled at the local animal shelter and you may well get lucky, no papers required.

Care of Russian Blue Cats and Russian Blue Kittens

Like all cats, watch the plants and things in your home which could potentially poison your pet.  Keep them flea free and bathed every two weeks to once a month, depending on your pet.  A small soft brush will teach your Russian Blue kitten that grooming is a relaxing and soothing pastime with ones owner and high quality diet will bring out the high sheen in the coat.  You must handle the kittens often as they really do have an aversion to people they don’t know, making sure your breeder has done the same will help you do that job.

Like all domestic cats, the genus of the Russian Blue cat is Felis.

Related posts:

1. Russian Blue Cats and Russian Blue Kittens
2. Siamese Cats and Siamese Kittens
3. Persian Cats and Persian Kittens

      Though it may come as no surprise that the Rhode Island Red chicken is the state bird of Rhode Island, few may know that this is a dual purpose laying breed, meaning if you get fed up with trying to raise eggs you can always change gears.  I promise you that when raising chickens, unless of course you are only keeping one or two as yard pets, that this will be a valuable asset to owning this breed.  At some point most of us end up with more roosters than we need, and it is far kinder to make edible use of them than it is to let them harass each other to death in your yard or barn.

Colors Allowed and General Appearance

            Another no brainer, the Rhode Island Red hen and rooster are both an even rust red color.  Males sport large green feathers off the tail, which makes them among the more attractive animals in the barn.  Occasionally, one finds Rhode Island Red hens which are chocolate, maroon, or bordering on black.  They are unusual and like their normal counterparts sport red orange eyes, bright red combs, yellow legs, and a glossy iridescence which cannot be missed. Adults may also sport white ticking on the body or stripes on their scaly legs.  Cocks will weigh around
eight or so pounds and hens will come in around six or seven.  They are single combed and have four toes.

Rhode Island Red History

             Rhode Island Reds come from Rhode Island and Massachusetts, and have been making our breakfast worth having for a long time. They are hardy birds, and have to be, with roots in the northeast, and are better off than some others in the rougher climate.  The Rhode Island Red Club of America wasn’t officially started until 1898, and though one might assume it was started in Rhode Island, it was in fact started in Massachusetts.  They hold the official standard for the breed and are especially helpful in starting out newcomers to the world of dual-purpose chickens.  They work very hard to ensure that Rhode Island red chickens continue to be a quality staple for theAmerican table and those who wish to pursue chicken farming are well advised to start there.

Similar Breeds of Chicken

              If you like the idea of mildnmannered dual purpose chickens but maybe want something different from the Rhode Island Red Hen, consider instead (or maybe as well as) the Bar Rock Hen.  Mild animals who are great layers, I had great luck with these animals myself.  They are endearing and attractive, and maybe a little better concealed with their spotted plumage.  Great for children and families, so kind were mine that I was never tempted to process them for meat, instead allowing them to retire from eggs and just enjoy the yard at their leisure.   Those new to chickens will defiantly appreciate how easy to get on with these birds are and I feel that they are some of the best layers, though it bears mentioning that my definition of “great layer” is firstly a hen that doesn’t peck your wrist off when you go for the eggs every morning…

Care of Rhode Island Red Chicks and Hens

         Never keep too many roosters,that is the most important thing to remember.  Like all others, Rhode Island Red roosters will take each other apart at every opportunity, so never free range more than one at a time.  I am a big fan of large clean coops, and ones with a cement floor can be spray clean weekly and bleached out twice a year with ease.  Poultry are serious carriers of salmonella, and sanitation is important for both fowl and farmer.  Each animal should have its own nesting box and also a community roost, they will really appreciate having this even though they are flightless birds, and will lay better for it. Clean food in abundance is a must also, no meat or egg chicken will be worth a darn if they aren’treceiving enough quality nutrition and the Rhode Island Reds are no exception to the rule.  Never feed a moldy or damp feed, and avoid any that has been contaminated by vermin like rats and rodents.  Rhode Island Red hens will lay in the boxes, and other set ups will be needed for Rhode Island Red chicks if you wish to raise your own.

Like all farmyard Chickens, the genus for the Rhode Island
Red is Gallus Domesticus, Genus and Species for you smarty pants out there.

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Since recorded history began, man has bartered and sold the Arabian horse.  The question today is how much is too much, what is a reasonable price for Arabian horses for sale.  Even in a poor economy Arabians are not cheap horses, and the ones who are bear a very critical eye by most intelligent buyers, so if you are out there looking for the deal of a lifetime, as a strong buyer with many years of experience let me lend you some jewels of wisdom.

About Arabian Horses

                The oldest and purest of all the world’s horse breeds, the Straight Egyptian Arabian is held by many to be the standard to which all fine horses are held.  Horses which go back to Biblical times, they are fiercely loyal, small, hardy horses capable of crossing deserts and being fit for war on the other side.  Remarkably gentle and at least in most cases very intelligent, these are not good horses for those with hard hands or a tendency to want to hit their animals, like mules they will hit you back, and from any angle!  The legend of Bucephalus himself goes back to an Arabian stallion, tamed by Alexander the Great before he became king.  And like any prize befitting a king, the Arabian turns heads with dished heads, huge eyes, smooth bodies and flagged tails.  They can take up to six years to mature and are not usually finished until this point.  Egyptians today can reach upwards of sixteen hands high, but a better horse is usually between fourteen one and fifteen two.  Arabian horses come in four colors, black, bay, grey and chestnut.  No broken or diluted coats are allowed and anyone claiming to own a purebred palomino, pinto, or buckskin is either a fool or a liar.  Or he is both.  None the less, the most common color is grey, grey horses are born one of the three other colors and then turn white over time.

Other Types of Arabian Horse

                These break into Domestic (those of US decent and mixed purebred decent), the Polish Arab, the Russian bloodlines, and the Spanish Arabian.  Each of these strains contains their own traits and should be considered separate from the Egyptian Arabian, as they are not recognized by the Pyramid or Al Khamsa registries.  They are fantastic creatures nonetheless, and fetch prices rivaling their Egyptian and Egyptian bred counterparts.  Ideally, one should be able to tell the separate breed distinctions apart, as far from being inferior to each other they instead complement one another as any fine wine would its main course.  These animals do every job from endurance to professional cattle working, halter to saddle seat, and they do it well.  Like their forbearers their heart knows no quit.

Similar Breeds of Horse

                If you cannot afford a purebred, consider a half Arabian horse.  They are often more affordable, and are in many cases fine animals to boot.  You can get a good mix of traits, like that of the Quarab (the Arabian Quarter Horse cross) or the Morab, (the Arabian Morgan cross).  Also a good sound evening or sport horse prospect is the Anglo Arab (the Arabian Thoroughbred cross).  These are efficient, affordable animals and will in most cases be far sounder than their non Arabian bred counter parts.  Many of these horses come in fabulous coat colors and patterns not offered in the purebred registry, but do expect to pay for these as they are extremely rare at high percentages.  See who tickles your fancy, the Arabian is the do all horse you are looking for.

Care of Arabian Horses

                Much more in cost purchase wise of many horses, Arabians live longer, work longer, are sound longer, and are more versatile.  They are cheaper keepers, have few health issues, and most don’t even wear shoes, even in our terrible climate here in the Pacific Northwest.  They do require very regular worming, and some don’t grow a super winter coat, they like a good horse rug.  Tack can be difficult to get, they do have three less vertebrae than the rest of the horse world and many have soft mouths,  they don’t always appreciate a bit, especially when it is tied to a heavy hand.  But tack now is easier than it used to be to find, and if you have the time to spend with your equine companion the Arabian horse for sale in the classified may be the perfect companion for you.

Related posts:

1. The Buckskin Arabian: Fact and Fiction

Purchasing a draft horse is something many people dream of, and a Clydesdale is perhaps the most glamorous breed of all.  High action, flashy color, and romantic feathering all make this one of the most recognizable horses of all time.  But there are some things you should know about them, even if horses in general are not news to you.  Enjoy this brief article and share with us how you feel about Draft horses and the Clydesdale.

Clydesdale Breed Standard

                Born a whopping hundred and eighty pounds or so at birth, the foal then proceeds to lay on about four and a half pounds per day, ingesting over fifty pounds of milk per day in the process.  The by then grateful mare weans the foal at between six and nine months old, and from there the young yearling takes off.  Hooves reach the size of dinner plates, and at maturity the animal knocks a ton, standing over seventeen hands high at the withers.  For you equine ignoramuses out there, that would be four inches per hand.  The most common colors are bay and black, but other colors do exist, and sabino is a genetic pattern throughout the breed offering the high whites and blaze, coupled by roaning, which often shows in the coat.  Long feathers and a finely featured face attract many to the Clydesdale market who would not otherwise find draft horses attractive.

Clydesdale History

                Believed by many to have existed for over three hundred years, the Clydesdale originated in Scotland.  Records were not fantastic in the early days, and breeding was largely done on superstitious values.  The first of such horses was produced by a duke and offered to his subjects for use, free of charge.  This proved to be a successful enough idea and soon many people in the area noticed the quality of the handsome dark brown stallion.  After words a black stallion named Blaze, and a young filly out of a dispersal sale that almost every Clydesdale can trace back to.  Things were not always written down in the 1800s, so her exact heritage is not known, but historians are almost certain she contained blood from a notable Flemish stallion of the time.  Today Clydesdales are DNA tested, ensuring accurate lineage in the pedigree.  There are around seven hundred registered mares in Scotland today, and about a hundred stallions give or take.

Similar Breeds of Horse

                Clydesdales, or “Clydes” as we in the states refer to them as, are members of the big four draft horses, a group which includes Belgians, Shires, and Percherons as well as Clydesdales.    However, if you are looking for a horse with all the glamour of the Clydesdale, (but which is also easier to ride and work) try the Friesian.  They have smaller bodies, reach about a hand or two shorter, and boast the same flowing mane and romantic feathering as the Clydesdale does.  Tack on that showy gait and mild mannered disposition, and if you enjoy Clydesdales you will love Friesians.

Care of Clydesdales and Draft Horses

                This is a full time job.  Period.  If you think owning a horse is expensive, try owning one of these guys.  Board, vet care, farrier work, feed, wormer, and anything else you might need is all going to cost even more for a draft horse of any kind, and far too many of these majestic animals go without because the people who purchase them are ignorant of what it really takes to care for them.   Budget in at least twice the cost, they are after all twice the horse, and remember that there are some things that you need to know about handling them.  Size alone makes them extremely dangerous, so don’t ever let one trap you  in a way that a smaller horse might get away with.

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Since they first hit the shores of this country, the Maine Coon cat has been a boon to humans where ever they dared inhabit.  And the Maine Coon with its plush coat and savvy personality has been keeping life in the colonies civilized since the start of our nation, so it is no small wonder that the Maine Coon cat is such a popular breed.  Second in fact, only to the Persian.

Colors Allowed

Every color save Siamese pointing is allowed by the CFA.  There are several varieties of tabby, in a plethora of colors.  The only color allowed blue eyes is the white.  Most colors provide for a pink nose, and it is clear to see why the early Pixie Bob breeders chose Maine Coon cats to give their breed its wild look, as the brown ticked Maine Coons with their pink noses and black tufted ears do look very feral, especially on that shaggy coat.

About the Maine Coon Cat

 Affectionate cats fluent in every discipline of cat life, the Maine Coon Cat is at home almost anywhere.  Harsh snowy environments welcome the Maine Coon with its dense and rugged coat, large ears, keen senses and natural snowshoes.   This doesn’t mean they don’t love a good family when they find one though, and they are more than content to sit around and be huge couch potatoes too.  Maine Coons owners enjoy the gentle chirps and soft noises that their cats offer and the average activity level keeps them from climbing the walls all day long.  This is a laid back easy to handle breed that adapts easily to almost every situation.  They love water, and are not notorious lap kitties, which is really a blessing as this is one of the larger cat breeds. They are slow to mature and usually take to the age of about four to reach full size and build.  No outcrosses are allowed.

History of the Maine Coon Cat

The Maine Coon Cat dates back to the first colonies, the cats that came off the ships that the first settlers arrived on were called “Shags”, probably due to their scruffy coats.  They adapted easily to their new environment, eating pests and prowling barns across the countryside until they became the first champion show cat in the US.  They were popular, shown as early as the 1860’s, but were declared extinct in the 1950’s, but recovered and were accepted to the CFA in 1975 and granted championship in 1976, today they are one of the most popular long haired breeds, having been accepted as the official state cat of Maine in 1985.  There is absolutely no reality to the legends of them being wild crosses or half raccoon, as has been suggested. 

Similar Breeds of Cat

                If you are looking for something a little further to the wild side, try a Pixie Bob.  Made to be a mimic of a miniature Bob Cat, the Pixie Bob is getting pretty wild looking, but is not actually wild at all.  If you are looking for something with a tail, try the Norwegian Forest Cat.  Around for centuries, these guys are pretty good clones of the Maine Coon Cat and may well be related to them more than just a little bit.  Both are excellent mousers and pets, who will love you and your family for a very long time.

The Care of the Maine Coon Cat and Maine Coon Kittens

                Solid and large, the Maine Coon cat is unfortunately subject to hip dysplasia as well as feline heart disease, and a few sport muscle disease later in life.  The coat, in spite being long, is easy to maintain with minimal grooming requirement, simply keep them flea free and you will have no issues with your Maine Coon Cat.  The darker cats tend to have less coat, the lighter cats tend to have more, and they are seasonal shedders.

Like all domestic cats, the genus of the Maine Coon Cat is Felis.

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1. Pixie Bob Cats and Pixie Bob Kittens
2. Bengal Cats and Bengal Kittens, are They Wild or Tame?
3. Russian Blue Cats and Russian Blue Kittens

The Burmese, commonly referred to as a brick wrapped in silk, is a lovely creature enduring on so many levels, from his amazing eyes to his silky shiny coat.  Even people not fond of cats find themselves wishing to cuddle Burmese kittens, their appeal is universal.  This is the cat almost anyone can own and it is no small wonder why they are so popular throughout Europe and the United States.

Colors Allowed

 The only four shades allowed by the CFA are Sable, Champagne, Platinum, and Blue.  All will have striking, bright yellow eyes.  In these shades, you will find a wide array of fur tones in those four colors to satisfy your needs.  The points should, like the Siamese, be darker than the body, but the body should not lack generous amounts of base color unlike the Siamese which would be penalized for such.  Champagne, Platinum, and Blue are considered dilutions of Sable and are shown accordingly.  Many people find that they enjoy collecting colors, and having one of each is a definite prize in the world of cats.

About the Burmese

                Burmese cats are Velcro kitties for sure, glued to your rear all day long like small dogs.  Forget a trip to the bathroom on your own, and those yellow eyes will be following you everywhere from the moment you first take them home.  The Burmese is talkative, with a soft voice unlike that of the raspy Siamese, and is also a highly active cat. Great with kids, the compact and sturdy Burmese also likes to travel, so if you enjoy an RV, best know that you will be taking the cat long as well.  These guys do not enjoy sitting home alone and if you are gone most of the time, consider that the Burmese is not the cat for you.  They will just pine alone and will not be a happy cat. 

History of the Burmese Breed

                Originally from Rangoon, Burma (now modern day Myanmar)and brought to this country in the 1930’s by a sailor, the first Burmese named Wong Mau was then given to Dr. Thompson, who promptly bred her to a Siamese stud to create the first litter of Burmese kittens.  It is now known that Wong Mau was likely a Burmese Siamese mixed cat, as she produced Siamese kittens in her various litters.  Siamese was crossed into the strains well into the 1930’s and 1940’s, the Burmese was accepted by the CFA in 1936, but their registration was suspended in 1947 due to misuse of the Siamese out crossing.  Thankfully, dedicated breeders regained their status in 1953 and achieved championship status in 1957.

Similar Breeds of Cat

      Any one can tell you that Burmese breeders hold their charges in the highest acclaim, as evidenced by their price tags.  If you should find a Burmese outside your price range, try a Bombay.  A breed originally created in part by the Burmese, they aren’t usually the same sticker shock that the Burmese kitten tends to be.  The Bombay is a loving, wonderful cat that in most ways (all the ways that matter), compares to the Burmese and will give you years of quality companionship.  They are easier in most areas to find and have very few issues.

       This is a remarkably healthy and solid breed, and their stomach’s aren’t usually as sensitive as that of the Siamese, plus their super sleek coat is extremely easier to care for, especially since they have very little undercoat, keeping shedding down on most animals.  A bath now and again, decent flea juice, and quality feed will keep your Burmese in top shape and looking its best.

Like all domestic cats, the genus of the Burmese cat is Felis.

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1. Siamese Cats and Siamese Kittens
2. Bengal Cats and Bengal Kittens, are They Wild or Tame?
3. Persian Cats and Persian Kittens

One of the many breeds created for the “holy cow what the heck is that” effect, the Pixie Bob is a cat in good company with some of its more exotic counterparts.  In spite of the supposed “Legends” and clouded history of the animals, people are welcoming into them into their home at a surprising rate.  If you find yourself wishing to walk on the wild side then maybe a Pixie Bob will be right up your alley.

Colors Allowed

Varying shades of brown and silver are permitted, with spots and bars differing in both depth and color.  Markings preferred are mascara like lining around the eyes, barring on the whisker pads, and heavy, natural looking coat shading, lighter at the soft parts of the muzzle, belly, and under the tail.  This should be a heavy, shaggy kind of coat which in spite of its length should be easy to keep clean and groom, mats at debris falling out of the coat with minimal prodding.  Black striping around the ears and black ear tufts are also highly desirable.

About the Pixie Bob

                Much that isn’t true is often said of the Pixie Bob, and I think that rather than all the superstition and hype the cat community would prefer the truth of things instead.  Pixies are large cats and can weigh upwards of over twenty pounds, their massive paws can sport extra toes (the only breed allowed by the CFA to be polydactyl), and their tufted ears and bob tail make them look like they could take down moderately sized prey animals.  They seem fairly intelligent and as such adjust well to dogs and kids.  They are quiet cats who, though they make a wide range of noises, are not prone to mewing a lot.  They like their people and bond easily into their new families, and are one of the cat breeds known to travel well.

History of the Pixie Bob Breed

                There is a lot of myth and superstition plaguing the Pixie Bob breed, and much of it has to do with the breed’s founder, Carol Ann Brewer of Washington State.  Brewer claims to have found the early litters (the so called Legend Cats) as wild crossed cats including Bob Cat heritage, that the common story was a claim that a pet had come home, badly scratched, and then she would produced kittens supposedly sired by a wild Bob Cat.  There is no scientific base for this superstition, and all reliable testing to date refutes the theory completely.  Breeders are extremely fond of touting these myths, and many would have you believe that the “Legend Cat” is real, but the real story more likely includes many domestic animals, started by an accidental breeding that just came out kind of cool.  The better breeders got much of the desired “look” from the Maine Coon Cat, one of the more popular long haired breeds, and this would certainly explain the ear tufts and shaggy, natural coat.

Similar Breeds of Cat

                If the Pixie Bob crowd is a little too much to bear, consider the Maine Coon cat, this cat boast a very similar look, and the same rumors about its past, which dates to colonial times.  These cats are more widely available and are likely to be a little more affordable.  The major differences being that they have a normal amount of toes and a longer, normal length tail, but even their color is in line with the Pixie Bob and with striking markings is likely to be just as exotic a pet.

The Care of Exotic Pixie Bobs and Pixie Bob Kittens

                I keep hearing rumors that you shouldn’t vaccinate these cats due to their “wildness”, that they like Bob Cats have problems with the Rabies and other vaccines.  Being that these cats have no wild blood at all, that sounds like total garbage to me, and all pets should be vaccinated by a qualified veterinarian, anything else is just foolish.  That said, if a breeder is ethical enough to confess a weakness like a vaccine allergy, you will want to inform your vet of this when the pet is taken in as a kitten.  Other than this, because it is a mutt cat breed, the genetic base was pretty wide and as such the breed is fairly healthy and hardy.

Like all domestic cats, the genus of the Pixie Bob cat is Felis.

Related posts:

1. Maine Coon Cats and Maine Coon Kittens
2. Exotic Shorthair Cats and Exotic Shorthair Kittens

Frequently referred to as the lazy man’s Persian, the Exotic Shorthair is actually so much more.  Held to the same standard as the Persian cat is, the Exotic Shorthair show ring is the wet tee shirt contest of the cat world with no long beautiful pelt to hide poorly placed or shaped ear,s and no forgiveness for faults easy to hide under all that hair.  With all this laid onto the fact that modern life lends less and less time for such chores as such a laborious coat demands, it is no secret that the Exotic Shorthair breed will be going well into future with us.

Colors Allowed

Any color that the Persian registry allows, the Exotic Shorthair standard allows for as well.  All number of patterns and colors abound, from tabby to pointed, all black to calico and bright white.  These cats may not gain the benefit of colors like silver or smoke, due to the fact that the hair shaft is so much longer.  This unusual cat, regardless of color, is sure to turn heads where ever it goes.

About Exotic Shorthairs

                The same cat as the Persian, ideally, and should have very similar laid back and easy going personalities.  Like Persians, the breed sports both doll faced and extreme varieties, and a good specimen of either is going to put you back a few thousand bucks.  They have small ears, large jewel like eyes, and very round features.  This is a small, solid pet that will love you for the better part of two decades so the substantial investment pays off in dividends.  They are gentle, affectionate, and lovable with intelligent personalities lent to them from their British shorthair ancestors, and also a tad more active than the Persian tends to be.  Exotics are not terrible talkers, but need tons of attention and are a popular type of “Velcro” kitty.

History of the Exotic Shorthair Breed

                These guys hit the scene in the 1960’s courtesy Jane Martinke by the cross breeding of Persians and British Shorthairs and Persians, and were formally recognized by the CFA in 1967.  The only modern outcross is the Persian today, which is why one quarter of kittens born will have long hair.  Not all Exotic Longhairs carry genes for long hair, but most do.  The offspring with long hair are referred to as Exotic Longhairs, and having owned one I will attest they are an amazing pet.  I feel it is unfortunate that Longhairs are ineligible to show to championship with the CFA, but it also makes sense as the goal is a shorthaired breed.  Both varieties are extremely popular in England.

Similar Breeds of Cat

                Exotic Shorthairs are unlike any other breed of cat, but if a low maintenance coat with an exotic look is what you crave, try the Sphynx.  The coat doesn’t get much more low maintenance then that of the Sphynx, and you cannot deny that this is a pet that will turn heads, probably only one of a very few that people will actually stop and stare at.  Loveable and cuddly, at least to their owners, there is a devoted following of cat owners who feel at least one thing in common with Dr. Evil.

The Care of Exotic Shorthairs and Exotic Shorthair Kittens

                These cats aren’t unhealthy animals, if anything they will share issues in common with Persians, and maybe a few cardiac issues.  For all the hype and fuss about the ultra exotic face people make they are don’t really have near the issues critics claim.  They don’t tend to like the cold, I have fewer aspiration issues with my ultra faced cats in warmer air, so keep up the thermostat a little and things should be fine for all but the very poorest bred cats.  Exotic Shorthair kittens don’t require much out of life short of quality chow and tons of love.

Like all domestic cats, the genus of the Exotic Shorthair cat is Felis.

Related posts:

1. Persian Cats and Persian Kittens
2. Pixie Bob Cats and Pixie Bob Kittens
3. Siamese Cats and Siamese Kittens