If you are looking for a small, cuddly, and intelligent cat breed, you might want to consider the Singapura cat. This breed is one of the smallest breeds of cats in the world, with an average weight of only 4 to 8 pounds. They have a distinctive appearance: large ears, large eyes, and a brown coat with dark brown ticking. They are also very playful, curious, and affectionate, making them ideal pets for families and cat lovers.
The origin of the Singapura cat is somewhat controversial. Some people believe that they are a natural breed that originated from the streets of Singapore, where they were known as “drain cats” or “kucinta”, which means “love cat” in Malay. Others claim that they are a cross between Burmese cats and local brown tabbies and that they were brought to the United States by Hal Meadow and Tommy Meadow in the 1970s.
The first Singapura cat to be registered in the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) was named Chiko, and he was owned by Barbara Gilbertson. In 1982, the CFA granted championship status to the Singapura breed, and since then, they have gained popularity among cat enthusiasts. However, they are still relatively rare compared to other breeds.
Photo: Lil Shepherd
Singapura Cat Physical Appearance
The Singapura cat is a small breed with a slender and muscular body. They have a round heads with large ears that are set wide apart. Their eyes are almond-shaped and can be green, yellow, or hazel in color. Their coat is short and fine, with a beige or ivory base color and dark brown ticking on the tips of the hairs. They have dark brown tails and feet.
The average size of a male Singapura cat is 6 to 8 pounds, while a female Singapura cat is 4 to 6 pounds. They usually reach their full size by the age of two years. They have a lifespan of about 12 to 15 years.
Singapura Cat Personality
The Singapura cat is a very intelligent breed with a curious and playful nature. They love to explore their surroundings and interact with people and other animals. They are not shy or timid and will greet new people enthusiastically. They are also very affectionate and loyal to their owners, and they will often follow them around the house or curl up on their lap.
The Singapura cat is not a very vocal breed, but they will communicate with their owners through purring, chirping, or trilling. They are not aggressive or territorial, but they can sometimes be mischievous and naughty. They enjoy playing with toys, especially ones that stimulate their hunting instincts. They also like to climb on cat trees or furniture and jump very high.
The Singapura cat is a good choice for families with children or other pets, as they are very friendly and adaptable. However, they do not like loud noises or sudden changes in their environment, so they may not be suitable for very busy or chaotic households. They also need regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and shiny.
Pros
They are very cute and adorable, with large ears, large eyes, and tiny bodies.
They are very intelligent and playful, with a curious and mischievous personality.
They are very affectionate and loyal, with a loud and constant purring.
Cons
They are very expensive and rare, with few breeders and long waiting lists.
They are prone to some health issues, such as pyruvate kinase deficiency and uterine inertia.
They are not hypoallergenic and need regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and shiny.
Common Health Issues in Singapura Cats
The Singapura cat is generally a healthy breed, but it can be prone to some health issues that are common among cats. One of these is pyruvate kinase deficiency (PKD), a genetic disease affecting red blood cells and causing anemia. Symptoms of PKD include lethargy, weakness, pale gums, jaundice, and weight loss. There is no cure for PKD, but it can be managed with blood transfusions or medications.
Another health issue that can affect the Singapura cat is uterine inertia, which is a condition that prevents female kittens from being born naturally. This can cause complications during labor and delivery, such as fetal distress or death. The only way to prevent this is to spay female Singapuras before they reach sexual maturity.
Other health issues that can affect the Singapura cat include dental problems, ear infections, allergies, urinary tract infections, and obesity. To keep your Singapura cat healthy and happy, you should provide them with a balanced diet, fresh water, regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care.
Fun Facts About the Singapura Cat
The Singapura cat is the official mascot of Singapore, and its name means “lion city” in Malay.
The Singapura cat was featured on a series of stamps issued by the Singapore Post in 1990.
The Singapura cat’s unique genetic trait causes its eye color to change depending on the light. It can range from green to yellow to copper.
The Singapura cat is very good at opening doors, drawers, and cabinets with its paws.
The Singapura cat is also known as the “purring cat” because of its loud and constant purring.
Photo: Lil Shepherd
Where to Buy a Singapura Cat
If you are interested in buying a Singapura cat, you should be prepared to pay a high price and wait for a long time. The Singapura cat is one of the rarest breeds of cats in the world, and few breeders specialize in them. The average price of a Singapura cat is between $800 and $2000, depending on the quality and pedigree of the cat.
To find a reputable breeder, you should do some research online or contact the CFA or other cat associations. You should also visit the breeder’s facility and meet the parents and kittens before making a decision. You should avoid buying a Singapura cat from pet stores or online ads, as they may not be healthy or well-socialized.
Conclusion
The Singapura cat is a unique and adorable breed of cat that will charm you with its large ears, large eyes, and tiny body. They are also very smart, playful, and loving pets that make you laugh and smile daily. If you are looking for a small, cuddly, and intelligent companion, the Singapura cat might be the perfect choice for you. However, you should be aware of their high price, rarity, and potential health issues before buying one. You should also provide them with a stimulating and comfortable environment and regular grooming and care. The Singapura cat is a rare and precious breed that deserves your love and respect.
More Cat Breeds
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A: Singapura cats are one of the smallest breeds of cats in the world, with an average weight of only 4 to 8 pounds and an average length of 14 to 18 inches.
Q: What is the origin of the Singapura cat?
A: The origin of the Singapura cat is disputed. Some people believe that they are a natural breed that originated from the streets of Singapore, while others claim that they are a cross between Burmese cats and local brown tabbies that were brought to the United States by Hal Meadow and Tommy Meadow in the 1970s.
Q: Are Singapura cats hypoallergenic?
A: No, Singapura cats are not hypoallergenic. They have a short and fine coat that sheds moderately, and they can produce dander and saliva that can trigger allergies in some people.
Q: Are Singapura cats good with kids and other pets?
A: Yes, Singapura cats are good with kids and other pets. They are very friendly and adaptable and enjoy playing and interacting with people and animals. However, they do not like loud noises or sudden changes in their environment, so they may not be suitable for very busy or chaotic households.
Q: What are some health issues that can affect the Singapura cat?
A: Some health issues that can affect the Singapura cat are pyruvate kinase deficiency (PKD), uterine inertia, dental problems, ear infections, allergies, urinary tract infections, and obesity. To keep your Singapura cat healthy and happy, you should provide them with a balanced diet, fresh water, regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care.
Singapura – The Cat Fanciers’ Association, Inc. (n.d.)
