Asian

Asian cats have long medium-sized, quite muscular bodies and a tail that tapers to a rounded tip. Female Asian cats are much smaller and daintier than males. The head is wedge-shaped with a gently rounded dome, medium-sized wide-set ears, and large eyes with a silvery rim. The coat, which can look like watered silk, is short, fine and lies close to the body. A wide range of colours and patterns are available in this group.

The need-to-know

Playful and curious cat
Friendly but independent cat

Lean and elegant cat breed
Requires grooming once a week

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Personality

The Asian cat breed is very like the Burmese in temperament - extremely friendly and affectionate - but slightly less boisterous than the Burmese. Asian cats love attention and need to be part of the family. They can be quite demanding and often follow their owners around the house crying for attention. Asian cats are very intelligent and can often work out such problems as how to open doors. They can be very sensitive to their owner's feelings and this makes them excellent companions.

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History and Origins

Country of Origin: Britain

Asian cats look similar to Burmese but with coats in colours not recognized in the Burmese breed. The Bombay cat is from this group, as is the Burmilla and the Tiffanie cats. This is a young and rapidly developing breed that is rising in popularity. The Asian cat breed includes the Bombay cat, Burmilla cat and Tiffanie cat breeds which are listed separately.

Health and Common Issues

There are no specific conditions relating to Asian cats in the veterinary literature. However, there may be a tendency for this group to develop conditions associated with the Burmese. Some lines of Burmese appear to be more susceptible to diabetes mellitus than other breeds.

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle, and overall health. So it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Grooming Asian

The short close lying coat of the Asian Shorthair cat does not require much grooming, although they do appreciate the attention that comes with it. As with all cats, Asian cats benefit from protection against disease through vaccination and need regular parasite control and annual veterinary health checks.

Best Cat Breeds for Children

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

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