kids encyclopedia robot

Asian cat facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Asian
BrownVarientAsianCat.JPG
Other names Malayan cat
Origin developed in the United Kingdom-Britain
Domestic cat (Felis catus)

The Asian cat, sometimes called the Malayan, is a beautiful cat breed. It looks a lot like the Burmese cat, but it comes in many more colors and patterns. If an Asian cat has long hair, it's called a Tiffanie. At cat shows, Asian cats are usually placed in a special group called the "foreign section."

Where Did the Asian Cat Come From?

This lovely cat breed was first developed in the United Kingdom. It all started in 1981 with a group of kittens born to Baroness Miranda von Kirchberg. She played a big part in creating this unique breed.

What Does an Asian Cat Look Like?

Asian cats have a strong, rounded chest and slim legs. Their tail is usually a medium length. Their head is nicely rounded, without any flat parts. If you look at their profile, you'll see a clear curve. This gives the Asian cat a full, friendly face.

Eyes and Size

Their eyes are round and set wide apart, and they are always yellow. Female Asian cats are a bit smaller than males. These cats can weigh anywhere from 6 to 13 pounds (about 2.7 to 5.9 kg).

Shimatora Smith 3
Asian Smoke (black)

Coat Colors and Patterns

The Asian cat has a short, fine coat that feels satiny and looks glossy. It can come in many different colors and patterns! Asian Shorthairs are grouped into four main types:

  • The Asian Self: These cats have a single, solid color. The famous Bombay is a black Asian Self.
  • The Asian Tabby: These cats have stripes, spots, or swirled patterns on their fur.
  • The Asian Smoke: Their fur looks solid, but if you part it, you'll see a lighter color underneath, like smoke.
  • The Burmilla: This type has a shaded look, where the tips of the fur are darker than the base.

What is an Asian Cat's Personality Like?

Asian cats are very loving and get along well with kids. They share many traits with their close relative, the Burmese. They love to explore everything around them. They even enjoy traveling in a cat carrier!

Talkative and Playful

These cats can be quite talkative and sometimes a bit loud. They have a strong will and will make sure you give them the attention they want. They often love to be held and hugged. Asian cats will interact with everyone, even strangers. They are very playful and love to cuddle up with their human friends.

Caring for Your Asian Cat

Asian cats are generally healthy and easy to care for.

Where Do Asian Cats Like to Live?

Asian cats can be happy living in an apartment. However, they prefer quiet places. They don't like loud noises from cars, buses, or trucks. So, if they live in an apartment, it should be in a peaceful area, like a quiet suburb. They are not really "city cats." Giving them safe houseplants near a window can give them fun things to explore.

Grooming Their Shiny Coat

To keep an Asian cat's shiny coat looking its best, you should brush them once a week. Since they have short hair, they don't shed too much, which is a bonus!

Health and Lifespan

Asian cats usually live a long time, often between 12 and 18 years. Because of their unique face shape, they might snore sometimes. But other than that, they are generally a very healthy breed with few common problems.

What Makes a "Perfect" Asian Cat?

When judging Asian cats, certain features are preferred. Their eyes should always be yellow, not blue or green. Their coat should be a solid color without any white spots or streaks. Also, their tail should be straight and not have any kinks or be too short.

How Asian Cats Reproduce

Female Asian cats usually have their first litter of kittens when they are about seven or eight months old. Even though the Asian cat is considered a separate breed, it's closely related to the Burmese. Sometimes, a litter of kittens from Burmese parents can even include both Burmese and Asian kittens!

See Also

kids search engine
Asian cat Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.