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SOUTHERN ALBERTA

CALGARY CAT FANCIERS

SPECTATOR’S

GUIDE

SPRING

2010

CHAMPIONSHIP & HOUSEHOLD PET CAT SHOW

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This directory has been published to:

• provide informative information on the various breeds in order to assist the general public when selecting that new ‘furry friend’ • furnish a ready reference for Pet Specialty shops and Veterinary clinics when queried about the different breeds and their availability in our immediate area • make available a ready guide on how to select your new family member and how to care for your new kitten • alert the public on upcoming cat shows, along with information on what to expect when you get there in order to make the show a more enjoyable experience

The breed information has been assembled from a number of areas which include “The Legacy of the Cat” by Gloria Stephens, “Eyewitness Handbooks - Cats” by David Alderton and the “TICA Breed Standards”. As well, much information was obtained on the Internet.

We would like to thank our advertisers and the many breeders who have shown an interest by participating in this issue - without their financial assistance there would have been little or no incentive to take on a project of this magnitude. There is a subsequent list of breeds at the end of the guide as well, that have not subscribed to this directory.

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This Guide was compiled by the members of the Southern Alberta Calgary Cat Fanciers. www.saccf.ca What is a Cat show all about….

WHAT IS A CAT SHOW? The show consists of individual judging rings and the cats entered in the show. Each judging ring consists of a judge, one or more clerks, and one or more stewards. The clerks keep track of the judge’s decisions and the stewards clean the cages after each cat is judged. This show is governed by the rules set forth by The International Cat Association (TICA). TICA is a genetic registry, recognizing hundreds of different colors and patterns.

CLASSIFICATIONS: Cats are classified as Kittens, Adults, Alters (spayed or neutered purebreds), Household Pet Kittens, Household Pet Adults, Preliminary New Breed, Advanced New Breed, and New Traits. Kittens must be 4 to 8 calendar months of age and adults must be 8 calendar months of age on the opening day of the show. The show committee may permit cats or kittens 3 months of age or older to be entered for exhibition and sale.

PEDIGREED CATS: Each pedigreed cat has a Standard of Perfection. The judge must evaluate each cat, placing awards based on which cats best represent their own Standard. Points awarded in the judging rings are used to gain titles and awards with TICA.

HOUSEHOLD PETS (HHP): TICA welcomes Household Pet exhibitors. HHP's are judged primarily on body condition, beauty, grooming, and show presence. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and colors or patterns are often a whim of Mother Nature. HHP's have their own unique titles and awards, which are comparable to pedigreed cats.

ALL ENTRIES: The claws of each cat must be clipped prior to benching in the show. Failure to do so may subject the cat to disqualification. Cats or kittens that are obviously pregnant are ineligible for competition. Cats that have been declawed shall not be penalized. A cat not having all physical properties, such as eyes, ears, legs, tail (except as specified in breed standards), are ineligible for entry except in the alter classes or household pet classes.

HOW TO ENTER A SHOW: Obtain a "show flyer" and entry form from the cat club hosting the show by contacting the show's entry clerk. The Show Management provides a singe-benching cage for each cat entered. Double cages and grooming spaces may be available at an additional cost. Cage sizes vary, so check the show flyer. Cage curtains are required and are important to give your cat some privacy. They may be simple or elaborate but should be designed to fit around the outside back, sides, and the top of the cage. The bottom of the cage should be covered as well. More elaborate curtains can cover the inside of the cage but are not necessary. You will also need to arrange to bring a litter box, dishes, food, grooming supplies, bedding and toys.

SHOW TIME: Try to arrive early as the check-in line may be long (check the flyer for check-in time). The check-in table is usually at the show hall entrance. Have your entry confirmation form available for the person at the check-in table. You will receive your cat's catalogue number and the location of your cat’s benching space. Buy a catalogue if one is not included as part of your entry fee. Check your entry information immediately. If anything is incorrect, contact the Master Clerk immediately, as this information is what is used in scoring your cat’s points from the show. Find where your cat is benched and set up your cage curtains, litter pan, water dishes etc. You will want to make your cat as comfortable as quickly as possible. You and your cat will then be able to relax and enjoy the show. Look in your catalogue for a judging schedule. Locate your cat’s category on the schedule to find out which order you cat will attend the judging rings.

RIBBONS: The cats are called up to the judging rings one class at a time. Each class is arranged alphabetically by breed and then each breed is further broken down by division, and color/pattern. TICA does not give Best of Breed ribbons; nor are any title points given for breed awards. Judges will, however, announce their best, second best, and third best of breed and they will record that information in their Judge's Books..

Best of Color (BOC): The judge will choose 1-5 Best of Color Awards. EXAMPLE: Seven black Persians present; the judge awards 1-5 Best of Color to five of the seven competing.

Best of Division (BOD): From the BOC winners, the judge will select the best, second best, and third best of division. EXAMPLE: Our seven black Persians belong to the Solid Division. Other solid colors of Persians, (white, blue, red, etc.) may also be entered in the Solid Division. The judge will select a best, second and third best of division from the BOC winners in the Solid Division.

Best of Breed (BOB): The Persian Breed is accepted in categories Traditional, Mink and Sepia and all divisions (Solid, Tabby, Tortie, Silver/Smoke, and Particolor). The judge will select the best, second and third best of breed.

FINALS: This is the Big Moment!!! Finals are awards given to those cats that the judge believes best represent their breed in that class. Final numbers are not announced; the clerk will announce "kitten finals in Ring 4" and exhibitors must go to Ring 4 to see if their cat(s) numbers are up in that ring. Final awards are selected from the breed winners, although it is possible to have a cat that was awarded a fourth place color award in the finals, provided the first, second and third place color winners are ranked above him. In the finals of an Allbreed ring, the judge will select their top cats, with longhair and shorthair cats being combined. In the finals of a Specialty ring, the judge will select their top cats, but longhairs and shorthairs are judged separately and have separate final awards. If there are 25 cats competing in a class, then a top ten group of cats will be selected for the final. If there are only 24 cats competing, the top nine cats are selected; if 23 are competing, eight are selected; if 22 are competing, seven are selected; if 21 are competing, six are selected; and if there are 20 or less cats, five are selected. Finals are awarded to Cats, Kittens, Alters, Household Pets, and Household Pet Kittens. One Merit Rosette is awarded in each of the Preliminary New Breed, Advanced New Breed and New Traits classes. (The cats in these classes are not separated into longhair and shorthair for judging.)

SPECTATORS: It is very important that spectators behave responsibly. Loud noises upset everybody, especially the cats, so please view the cats quietly and keep your children under control. Fingers, toys, feathers or anything else should never be placed in or near the cats’ cages. Cats can be scared or injured and diseases can be transmitted this way. The cats in the judging rings are off limits completely, however spectators are welcome to view the cats from the seating areas in front of the judging rings or in the benching areas of the show hall.

Enjoy the Show!!!

THE HOUSEHOLD PET IN TICA

When TICA was formed in 1979, the ordinary household cat found his place in the world of cat showing. TICA gave them the opportunity to be registered and to be shown for regional and international awards and to hold their own titles. It was a golden opportunity to educate the public on the care and feeding of all cats and to demonstrate that any cat no matter how humble its origins could grow into a beautiful, healthy, happy and loving indoor companion.

As there is no money to be made in showing household pets (all adults must be spayed or neutered before entry into the show), these cats are shown for love alone. Each owner brings something special to the ring when they show a rescued street stray or a former resident of the local animal shelter. The competition in this class of cats is often more fierce than among the pedigreed cats. The household pet must rely on condition, personality and beauty (in the eye of the beholder) to be a winner. Each must be clean, well groomed and easy to handle to be in the running for a final award rosette. Most judges have more trouble with this class as there are always many more excellent entries than final award spots.

The road for a regional or international winner starts with the entry in a local show. Kittens from four to eight months are shown in their own household pet kitten class. They do not compete with the adults, cats over eight months old. They do not need to be altered (neutered or spayed), registered and they do not have titles. They do receive final rosettes in each show, which determines their placement at the end of the season. The show season is May 1st to April 30th of the following year. Kittens are scored on their best thirty rings in all the shows they have entered during the four months they are kittens.

Adults must be altered to enter a show and can be shown only once without a registration number. From the first show entered adults start to accumulate points and finals toward their titles of Master, Grand Master, Double Grand Master, Triple Grand Master, Quad Grand Master and finally Supreme Grand Master. Each title has requirements which must be fulfilled before the next level can be claimed. In TICA each adult household pet starts as a Senior; and when 300 points and one final have been accumulated, the title of Master can be claimed. Grand Master requires six finals under four different judges, three in top five Specialty or top ten Allbreed and 1,000 points. For a Double Grand Master - 1,000 additional points and one more final is needed. Triple Grand Master - 1,000 points more and another top final. Quad Grand Master - again the 1,000 points and top final, but Supreme Grand Master requires 2,000 additional points and a Best Cat in either Specialty or Allbreed. To be a Supreme Grand Master a cat has earned 6,000 points and ten finals including at least one Best Cat. Points are awarded for colour, division and final wins. Adult household pets are scored on the best fifty rings for one season for year end awards.

Not every cat is a show cat, but they can all be loving pets in their own home. Try showing your cat in a small show if you like but remember if your pet doesn't like being shown off, he is still the lover that sleeps on your lap each evening and purrs in your ear every night.

BUYING A PUREBRED KITTEN

Most people who want a purebred kitten choose their preferred breed because of the unique physical appearance and personality characteristics that distinguish each of the forty or more different breeds of cat. We are all aware of ‘look-alikes’ who may have other mixed-breed cats in their background, but who are never the less not purebred and who may not possess all the known and desirable traits of the purebred. In fact they may carry undesirable traits such as the questionable temperament found in some poorly-bred cats of Siamese colouring, which has given many people the impression that Siamese are mean and unpredictable when in fact the well-bred Siamese cat is a loving and gentle pet with an incredible personality. To guarantee that you are in fact purchasing a purebred animal, sufficient proof should be provided by means of registration certificates and pedigrees. This registration certifies the parentage of the kitten and guarantees an unbroken line of good quality purebred ancestors.

To locate your special kitten, phone one of the cat club representatives who maintain a list of recommended breeders and who can also put you in touch with out-of-town breeders for that rare breed you cannot find locally. You may also talk to breeders at cat shows or watch for their ads in the local papers. However, this would be a case of ‘buyer beware’ in ensuring that the ‘purebred’ kitten advertised is, in fact, a registered specimen of its breed. Frequently it isn’t and you may be disappointed with how it develops.

Registered kittens sold as pets, with a neuter or spay agreement, can be quite reasonably priced. Ethical and responsible breeders are reluctant to sell a very young kitten preferring to get it past the stress of weaning and ensure that it is in good health before it leaves. Included in the price of the kitten should be the cost of shots and a vet examination. Most breeders take their kittens for shots at eight, ten and twelve weeks of age. By this time the kitten is ready for its new home. The cost for the three shots average $50 to $75 for each kitten and the kitten then leaves the breeder with good protection against distemper, rhinotracheitis, calici, Chlamydia and leukemia virus. Preferably you should receive the vaccination record for your kitten. Eight to ten weeks is a very vulnerable period for kittens and it is not uncommon for health problems to develop. If you buy a kitten at eight weeks you will still have to add those vet costs to your purchase price and you may incur even higher costs if the kitten develops health problems. Reputable breeders should provide a health guarantee for a minimum of a week after the kitten leaves for its new home, it is also advisable to have the kitten checked by your vet for your own peace of mind.

It should hardly need to be pointed out that the kittens should have been raised in a clean environment where the cats are comfortable, well-fed, handled frequently, are healthy and are raised with love.

FIRST WEEKS WITH A NEW KITTEN

When you take your kitten home it may feel quite lost and alone after being with mother and litter-mates. It is natural for it to stand and meow as it is calling for mother and friends. It may be cautious and hide until it feels secure. Generally with special loving attention and gentle handling it will adapt quickly. It may be reluctant to eat at first because it misses the company of its brothers and sisters around the plate. For sleeping it may prefer your bed and your company! If this is not what you want, make it comfortable in a cozy chair or cardboard carton lined with something soft or even newspaper. Be sure that it doesn’t have to look far for its litter pan. A kitten is like a young toddler. It cannot control the urge for a long period while it runs from the second floor all the way to the basement! Provide a close alternative so that it will not choose the nearest available corner. Cats are fussy and will often not use a dirty or smelly litter pan. If you are not regular in your clean-up chores do not be surprised if your kitten has unwelcome accidents.

At first your kitten will need three or four small feedings daily depending on its age and size. By four months most kittens can eat enough for their needs at two meals each day. A good quality canned food is your best choice, adding some dry chow to its diet as well. An average kitten or cat requires four to six ounces of canned food per day with about a quarter cup of dry chow, although some large or stockier breeds will require more. It is best to ask your breeder for diet suggestions. Occasional a small amount of liver, kidney and raw meat are often a nice change, but more than a few ounces of liver each week can be undesirable. The kitten can have cooked egg or raw egg yolk, but never raw egg white. Water is needed at all times. Milk may cause diarrhea or digestive upsets, particularly in Siamese cats. Many cats thrive on cottage cheese added to their basic food. While the kitten is growing a vitamin supplement is a good idea.

Adapting to a new environment can be stressful and it is not unusual for a kitten to come down with minor sniffles and sneezes because the stress has lowered its natural resistance to common germs. If your kitten becomes sick during the first few days in his new home, it is best to contact the breeder for advise and assistance in treating the problem. An apparently healthy kitten could have been incubating an infection just before you brought him home. Ethical breeders will take the kitten back for treatment or have their own vet check the kitten and prescribe treatment. If you do not contact the breeder in such a case, you cannot expect him to pay the bills you incur.

If you are working each day you should consider having two kittens together so that they will not be so lonely during the day. The second kitten need not be another purebred, if your budget won’t stretch that far. You may find an appealing mixed breed kitten or young cat at the S.P.C.A.

For more complete and up to date information about cats, may we recommend the excellent book entitled “The Book of the Cat’, published by Summit Books, available in local bookstores as a large format paperback.

Cat’s age in human years – An old cat must receive much different care than that of a kitten to stay healthy. In order to get an idea of how old your cat is in relation to human terms this chart converts cat years into human years. This will give you an idea of your cat’s age so that you can care for him/her accordingly. Cat Years Human Cat Years Human Cat Years Human Cat Years Human Years Years Years Years 1 month 5 – 6 mths 1 year 15 years 8 years 48 years 15 years 76 years 2 months 9 – 10 mths 2 years 24 years 9 years 52 years 16 years 80 years 3 months 2 – 3 yrs 3 years 28 years 10 years 56 years 17 years 84 years 4 months 5 – 6 yrs 4 years 32 years 11 years 60 years 18 years 88 years 5 months 8 – 9 yrs 5 years 36 years 12 years 64 years 19 years 92 years 6 months 10 years 6 years 40 years 13 years 68 years 20 years 96 years 8 months 13 years 7 years 44 years 14 years 72 years 21 years 100 years

When God Created Kitty Cats

When God created Kitty Cats, He had no recipe;

He knew He wanted something sweet, As sweet as sweet could be. He started out with sugar, Adding just a trace of spice; Then stirred in drops of morning dew, To keep them fresh and nice.

He thought cats should be soft to pet, Thus He gave them coats of fur; So they could show they were content, He taught them how to purr.

He made for them long tails to wave, While strutting down the walk; Then trained them in meow-ology, So they could do cat-talk. He made them into acrobats, And gave them grace and poise; Their wide-eyed curiosity, He took from little boys.

He put whiskers on their faces, Gave them tiny ears for caps; Then shaped their little bodies, To snugly fit on laps. He gave them eyes as big as saucers, To look into man's soul; Then set a tolerance for mankind, As their purpose and their goal.

Benevolent ... and ...generous, He made so many of them; Then charged, with Fatherly Concern, The human race to love them.

When one jumped up upon His lap, God gently stroked its head; The cat gave Him a kitty kiss, "What wondrous love," God said. God smiled at His accomplishment, So pleased with His creation; And said, with pride, as He sat back, "At last. . .I've reached purr-fection!

- Unknown -

ABYSSINIAN

The Abyssinian cat is a bit like a miniature cougar. The ruddy version has a radiant, dazzling color; the sorrel, a flaming burnt orange color; the blue, a mixture of soft blue and apricot sherbet; the fawn, a mixture of pinkish beige and oatmeal. This elegant and regal animal is among the aristocracy in the world of the cat fancy. They are lithe, and panther-like in activity, stately in appearance and endowed with the grace of a dancer. The large almond-shaped eyes mesmerize all who look into them.

HISTORY

The Abyssinian may be one of the oldest breeds of domesticated cats, but like so many of our recognized breeds, its exact origin is unknown. Some believe the Abyssinian is a direct descendant of the sacred cat of Egypt, based on characteristic outlines seen on ancient Egyptian paintings and sculptures. These pictures look very much like the Abyssinian and Egyptian Mau of today. According to one story, soldiers returning to England in the 1800’s from Ethiopia (Abyssinia) brought cats with them from that country, hence the name Abyssinian.

DESCRIPTION

The contemporary Abyssinian has been carefully developed for color, pattern and type. It has a moderately long body, large ears and eyes and a smooth, resilient coat. The overall impression of the ideal Abyssinian is a medium cat, regal in appearance. The Abyssinian is foreign shorthair in type. Males are proportionately larger than females, the female being finer boned and usually more active than the male. The Abyssinian shows firm muscular development and a lively interest in all surroundings. The coat of an Abyssinian has an iridescent quality reflecting warmth of color giving the impression of a colorful cat. Coat pattern is a form of agouti ticking with even, dark-colored ticking contrasted with lighter bands giving the translucent effect. The Abyssinian is of sound health and vigor, well-balanced physically and temperamentally gentle and amenable to handling.

TEMPERAMENT

The Abyssinian should be feral in appearance, yet they are extremely gentle and affectionate by nature. They make excellent companions and are quiet, not overly “talkative” cats, even when in season. These cats are very inquisitive; nothing is too small to escape the adventure of investigation. They show a lively interest in all their surroundings and love to climb, yet very seldom disturb or break things, even when they weave between objects like a skier on a slalom course. Their loose skin helps them get in and out of tight places or human hands with ease. They do not like to be caged and will pace back and forth, much like a wild animal. These are wonderful cats who seem able to “read” the needs of their favorite person.

BREEDERS

HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES

Acetaminophen/aspirin Floor wax Nail Polish and Remover Antifreeze Fungicides Paint and Paint Remover Bleach Furniture Polish Photographic Developer Boric acid Gasoline Rat / Ant Poison Brake fluid Gypsum board (sheetrock) dust Rubbing Alcohol Cleaning fluid and solutions Herbicides Shoe Polish Deodorants Insecticides Snail/Slug Bait Deodorizers Laxatives Suntan Lotion Detergents Lysol SuperGlue and its variants Disinfectants Metal Polish Tar Drano (and the like) Mineral Spirits Windshield Washer Fluid Dye Mothballs Wood Preservatives

POISONOUS PLANTS

Amaryllis Daffodil Hydrangea Oleander Andromeda Daphne Iris Peach Arrowgrass Delphinium Jimson Weed Philodendron Avocado Dieffenbachia Laburnum Poinsettia Azalea Dumb Cane Larkspur Poison Ivy Bittersweet Elephant Ear Lily of the Valley Privet Boxwood English Ivy Locoweed Rhododendron Caladium Elderberry Marigold Rhubarb Castor Bean Foxglove Marijuana Snow on the Mountain Chokecherry Hemlock Mistletoe Toadstool Climbing Lily Holly Monkshood Wisteria Crown of Thorns Hyacinth Narcissus Yew

Symptoms of poisoning will range from seizures and foaming at the mouth to vomiting and coma. Immediate medical attention - as soon as you see the cat has eaten a toxic substance (don't wait for symptoms to appear) - is necessary and urgent!

AMERICAN SHORTHAIR

Boarding ships such as the historic Mayflower, accompanied by some of the nation’s first settlers, a group of four-pawed pilgrims set sail in a bold quest for freedom. Today, the American Shorthair is representative of the spirit of the pioneers; a strong breed developed through decades of natural progression.

HISTORY

The Ancestors of the American Shorthair are thought to be the first domestic felines brought to the Americas by the early settlers. The immigrants who followed most certainly brought more cats, as they were needed for rodent control on ships and land; they also served as companions. These cats settled North America right along with the pioneers and were allowed to breed freely among themselves. The resulting kittens grew up to be strong, healthy cats who easily adapted to extremes of weather and could survive in the wilderness.

The first cat in this genealogy actually came from Britain and was born on the first of June 1900. Later, this and another cat sent from Britain were bred to resident American shorthaired cats, with the first offspring called, simply, Shorthairs. Later they were called Domestic Shorthairs and in 1966 were renamed American Shorthairs. In order to keep its natural gene pool, the American Shorthair was allowed for years to breed to cats of unknown pedigree, developing according to the whims of nature, aided only slightly by mankind. Unfortunately, this is no longer true in most organizations. The American Shorthair has only one accepted outcross in TICA: the American Wirehair.

DESCRIPTION

This cat is a working cat, displaying the patience of a hunter and the strength of an athlete, in complete control of its environment and reflexes. Its powerful legs are long enough to cope with any terrain. The strong muzzle is of adequate length to permit an easy catch with steel-trap jaws. The all-weather coat is dense, to protect it from rain and cold or skin injuries, but short enough to resist matting or becoming tangled in heavy vegetation. No one part of the anatomy is too extreme. The general effect is that of a well-trained athlete, with all muscles lean and hard and with great power held in reserve.

Medium, strong and hefty are key words. The body should be well-knit and powerful with well developed chest and hindquarters, especially in males. The head is broad, with cheeks especially well developed in studs. The nose and face are medium short with medium to large, round eyes and medium sized ears set wide apart. The squarish muzzle should not be well-padded.

TEMPERAMENT

American Shorthairs make delightful pets. They are intelligent, friendly, affectionate and healthy with an even temperament. They are pleasing to look at, to hold, to touch and to communicate with. This is a sweet cat who is gentle and relaxed, mellow and strong. Its hunting instinct is so strong that it will practice or play at hunting in the house.

BREEDERS

BALINESE

These cats are the longhair counterparts of the Siamese. The longhair gene was probably introduced to Siamese from Angoras.

HISTORY

Early Balinese cats were reported to be the product of Siamese-to-Siamese breeding. They were not a sudden mutation, but a result of pairing of recessive longhair genes. The most likely introduction of the longhair gene into the Siamese gene pool took place in England during the World Wars, when it was necessary for breeders to outcross in order to retain a part of their bloodlines. Turkish Angoras would have been likely candidates for outcrossing, as the type is similar. At first, breeders could do nothing with the longhair kittens. They could not sell or show them; if entered in a show, the cats would be disqualified as Siamese because of their longer coat. Balinese were eventually accepted, and were granted championship status in the 1970s.

DESCRIPTION

This is one of several breeds described as Oriental. The four breeds have the same type; they are separated only by variations in color, pattern and hair length. They are beautiful and they know it. The Oriental type is characterized by large ears, a wedge-shaped head, a long neck, a long body and legs, and a long, whippy, pointed tail. To handle these cats is likened to feeling a silk glove over an iron hand. These cats are fine boned and delicate in appearance, long and elegant in every extreme while retaining firm, hard muscles. They should feel as hard as rock, never emaciated or too thin.

The medium-sized, almond-shaped eyes should be approximately one eye’s width apart, with a slant toward the nose and the outer aperture in line with the center of the ear base. This combination of eye shape, size, placement and set gives the eyes a decidedly oriental look. The slender, graceful neck is carried to display length and adds to the elegance of the cat. The long, tubular body is medium in size, with fine or slender boning and hard muscles. The legs are long with the hind legs longer than the forelegs. The feet are oval, small and dainty.

The Balinese is a pointed cat with a semi-long coat; the hair on the tail is usually longer than the body hair. The Balinese is a lovely cat and the medium coat allows the eye to see the long lines of this marvelous creature.

TEMPERAMENT

They are active, and their minds seem to be whirling with activity. If they do not have a playmate, they will create one out of anything. Height beckons a flight up or down; they delight in jumping and have been seen to leap four or five feet in any direction with ease. They are not outdoor cats. Most will make no effort to escape into the great unknown.

The Balinese requires an occasional combing, but their hair does not mat. These super-intelligent cats make wonderful pets if the owner can put up with the constant demand for companionship. They want to be with you every moment of every day. They will befriend you for life.

….Continued

BALINESE (CONTINUED)

BREEDERS

Balimoor Maureen Davies Calgary, Alberta Phone : (403) 239-9519 Fax: (403) 241-8233 Email: [email protected] Website: members.shaw.ca/balimoor

SHOW TIME IN ALBERTA

October 30 - 31, 2010 Southern Alberta Calgary Cat Fanciers Location: Ogden Legion, Calgary Contact: Maureen (403) 239-9519 www.saccf.ca

April 16 – 17, 2010 Southern Alberta Calgary Cat Fanciers Location: Shouldice Arena, Calgary Contact: Maureen (403) 239-9519 www.saccf.ca

~ Edmonton Cat Fanciers Club No show dates currently planned. Check www.edmontoncat.ab.ca for updates Or contact: Kathy (780) 461-1766

BENGAL

Crossings between small wild cats and domestic cats have been documented for more than a century, and some of the resulting hybrids were exhibited at cat shows in Victorian times. At least ten species have been used, and such matings became popular again during the 1960s. The Bengal evolved from an American breeding program which attempted to transfer a wild cat’s markings to a domestic breed.

HISTORY

The first deliberate cross is believed to have taken place in 1963, but the breeding program initiated by Jean Mill was suspended and not reactivated until 1981 when Dr. Willard Centerwall entered into a partnership with Mill. The Bengal first appeared on the show circuit in 1985.

The Asian leopard cat resembles a small ocelot, with longish large spots and stripes, and weighs about ten pounds. It is wild and cannot be tamed. Occasionally, a male leopard cat will accept a domestic cat and breed with her. The result of this type of breeding is the Bengal. The goal of the Bengal breeding program is to create a domestic cat which has physical features distinctive to the small forest-dwelling wild cats, but with the loving, dependable temperament of the domestic cat.

DESCRIPTION

Breeders strive for the look of the first-generation bengals, which resemble the leopard cat. The working standard features uniqueness: small, rounded ears on a moderate-sized head; a wide nose; puffy, wide whisker pads; large, oval eyes. The nose is short with a prominent bridge and a gentle, inward curve from the bridge to the tip of the nose. The cat has a long, muscular, substantial body. The Bengals must retain the wild look of their forebears, and a coat pattern and color that is unique to the cat fancy. The spots are large and horizontally aligned; they do not follow the mackerel or classic pattern; some even have the beginnings of rosettes. There are a variety of background colours, ranging from white and ivory to buff, golden, or orange with contrasting darker brown or black spots.

TEMPERAMENT

Temperament is of prime importance to this breed; these cats must be gentle, unchallenging and amenable to handling. Any sign of a definite challenge will disqualify the cat from competition.

BREEDERS

….Continued

BENGAL (CONTINUED)

BREEDERS

BIRMAN

The blue-eyed Birman is also known as the Sacred Cat of Burma. Many legends and mysteries surround the origins of this breed.

HISTORY

The theories of the origin of the Birman include that it came from Southeast Asia, or that it was specifically bred by the French. Or, that the soul of a priest entered the cat, changing the body color to golden and its eyes to a brilliant blue.

Some say that the Birman was introduced to Europe in 1916 from Southeast Asia. In 1925 the Birman was recognized as a breed by the Federation Feline Francaise. It is thought that most "sacred cats of Burma" in the world today are descended from the small cat population of the French Birmans. The breed is considered French even though it is not indigenous to France.

The Birman was endangered when only one pair survived during World War II. In order to keep the breed alive, other longhaired and shorthaired breeds were bred to the Birman. The first Birmans to be exported came to the United States in 1959 and to Great Britain in 1965. The Birman was recognized in the United States by the Cat Fancier's Association in 1967 and is now known throughout most of the world.

The legend of the sacred cat says that in a temple built on the sides of mount Lugh, there lived a very old priest. This priest had a long golden beard, which the god Song-Hio was said to have braided. His life was dedicated to the holy service of Tsun-Kyan-Kse, the goddess with the sapphire blue eyes. This goddess supervised the transmigration of souls, allowing some to live again in a holy animal. The priest's favorite cat, Sinh, was always sitting near him. Sinh was a white cat with yellow eyes. The cat's ears, nose, tail and extremities were dark like the color of the earth. One night a group of bad men came to the temple and murdered the priest. Then the miracle came about: in a bound, Sinh jumped to the throne and sat at the head of his dead master. As the cat sat, the bristly white hair on his spine suddenly became a golden yellow and his golden eyes became blue. The part of his paws touching the dead priest remained white.

Legend has it that when a priest dies, his soul transmigrates into the body of a cat, and upon the cat's death, the transition of the priest's soul into heaven is accomplished.

The story sadly goes on that for the next seven days the loyal cat refused all food and on the seventh day, he died, knowing that only with his death could he take his master into heaven. After this, all the temple cats had a golden mantle and their gold eyes turned blue. And to this day, Birmans have a golden mantle, white feet and blue eyes.

DESCRIPTION

The Birman is a semi-longhaired cat with colored points. Among the most distinctive features are the white paws, like white gloves on all four feet. The white on the back foot should come to a point up the back like a gauntlet. The cat is also distinguished by a "Roman" shaped nose, with the nostrils set low, and a flat forehead. The high cheekbones set off large, almost round, blue eyes.

The Birman is imposing in appearance, medium to large in size, with heavy boning. Birmans are recognized in the parti- color point colors, mitted pattern only. Only the Birmans with perfect or near perfect markings are shown.

….Continued BIRMAN (CONTINUED)

TEMPERAMENT

Birmans are a delight to care for. As their silky fur does not mat, little grooming is required. They are rather outgoing cats. Often they are ready for mating at seven months of age. They give the impression of quiet power and harmony through rather pensive, sweet eyes. Birmans greatly appreciate companionship; especially that of young children and more readily display happiness than anger. The breed is robust and hardy, reported to be resistant to disease, and easily adaptable to rural or city life.

BREEDERS

Angel Eyes Birsace Birmans Sylvia Foulds Sheila Molyneaux Phone: (780) 455-0330 Phone: (403)242-0723 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.angeleyesbirmans.com Website: www.birsacebirmans.com

Bojo Birmans Extravagante Birmans Julia Duguid Sabine Story & Ute Geronazzo Phone: (780) 466-6292 Phone: (403)235-5875 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.bojobirmans.com Website: www.extravagante-birman.com

BRITISH SHORTHAIR

The British Shorthair, Great Britain’s working cat, is a very sturdy, muscular cat with a short, plush coat. The breed was developed in Europe from unpedigreed cats.

HISTORY

The British Shorthair’s origins are those of the native working cats, the street and yard cats of Britain. The early British Shorthair and the French Chartreux were of similar type; many breeders think they were originally the same cat. Today, breeders have taken great care to produce two distinct breeds, to be judged separately.

Ancestors of the British Shorthair survived years of superstition and persecution in past centuries, when thousands of cats were killed. It is a marvel that this wonderful, sweet-tempered cat is still around for the whole world to enjoy.

Many shorthairs were shown at the Crystal Palace in 1895. They held the limelight for about a year at the shows, until the Persian took over. British Shorthairs were to remain out of favor until the 1930s when a small number of dedicated breeders took an interest in them. Mr. Harrison Weir, of early cat fancy fame wrote, “The ordinary garden cat has survived every kind of hardship and persecution. That he exists at all is a tribute to his strength of character and endurance”.

In the United States, the early British Shorthairs were called the British Blues, as blue was the only recognized color. They were not as defined as the British Shorthairs of today, and relied more on size and plush coats for their wins than on type. In the 1970s a cat named Mary Poppins caught the cat fancy’s eye. She was a blue tortie, much smaller than her peers. But she had the look, the full cheeks, the round muzzle and a sweet appealing air.

DESCRIPTION

The British Shorthair is a medium to large, sturdy cat with a semi-cobby body - a rather short, powerful body - with a full, broad chest, broad shoulders and hips, short, strong, substantial legs, rounded paws and a thick tail. The head is broad and round with a firm chin. The round full cheeks give the cat a chubby, chipmunk appearance. Its eyes should be large, round and expressive. The ears are medium in size, round and set wide apart. The broad nose is short and snub with an obvious change of direction from the bridge. If it is properly proportioned, you should be able to “cup” the head in two areas: the skull and the muzzle should fit into the circular shape. The fur is short, dense, firm, crisp, well-bodied, with a natural protective appearance. The coat feels like a plush rug and should tingle the hands. It is a pleasure to run your fingers through it. Brindled fur is desirable in all torties in this breed.

TEMPERAMENT

British Shorthairs are very independent, yet extremely affectionate. They are very alert and quizzical and enjoy following you around the house to make sure you do things right. The males, in particular, are extremely people oriented, usually downright mushy. This is an extremely quiet, little talking, no-nonsense, “I can take everything in stride” breed of cat. British Shorthairs are easy to groom, as their fur does not tangle and should be combed very lightly. They make ideal pets for less active people as well as for busy households.

BREEDERS

BURMESE

The Burmese is the gold-eyed sepia beauty of the cat fancy.

HISTORY

All contemporary Burmese cats trace their ancestry to a Tonkinese. Wong Mau, brought to the United States by Dr. J. Thompson. Dr. Thompson was interested in the unique color of Wong Mau, and in order to explore it, bred her to a seal point Siamese. The resulting kittens were Siamese, and Tonkinese. The Tonkinese resulting from this breeding, if bred together, or, one of the Tonkinese males bred back to Wong Mau, produced the following kittens: one sepia color, two mink and one pointed. Such was the start of the Burmese breed as we know it today.

TEMPERAMENT

Burmese are well known for their adaptability. They are as comfortable in apartment life as they are in country living. These cats are extremely calm. The breed as a whole is rather quiet in voice. They are easy to care for, needing only an occasional grooming with a fine-tooth comb, and even better, a rubdown from their owner’s hand, which they love. They make excellent pets, and are loyal and affectionate.

BREEDERS

Kitzspa

Judy Seebar Lumby, BC Phone: (250) 547-9767 E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.kitzspacattery.com

CORNISH REX

The Cornish Rex is the greyhound of the cat world. The soft, wavy, marcelled coat is unlike that on any other cat. Everything is curly, even the whiskers.

HISTORY

The first known Rex was born in 1950 in a litter of kittens from two ordinary short-coated cats in Cornwall, England. The coat was different in that it was wavy. The red and white wavy-coated male kitten (named Killibunker) was bred back to its mother, who produced more wavy-coated kittens. These were later to be called Rex, after the rabbits of the same name. All Cornish Rex cats thus trace their ancestry back to Killibunker.

Further breeding revealed the wavy coat to be a true, recessive mutation. Many breeds were used in the development of the Rex, resulting in a large gene pool making almost every color and pattern available.

TEMPERAMENT

The Cornish Rex has a very alert and athletic look and is very intelligent, outgoing and affectionate. Little or no grooming is required as the cat does not constantly shed. But one of the greatest delights is hand grooming the Rex; to run your hand over the body of a Rex feels so pleasant that care must be taken not to overdo it. The cat likes a warmer environment, as there is not much hair to protect it from the cold. Although it has a normal temperature, the Rex may feel warmer than other cats.

Rex cats are extremely curious about their surroundings. They indulge in special acrobatics and “ground speed racing” and are known to be clowns. Their easy grooming, soft wavy coats and intelligence make them delightful cats to show and to have as pets.

BREEDERS

We currently have no Cornish Rex breeders subscribing to this directory. For more information on breeds and breeders, please refer to Southern Alberta Calgary Cat Fanciers’ website at www.saccf.ca for more information.

HOW PUSSY WILLOWS GOT THEIR NAME

Many springtimes ago, according to an old Polish legend, tiny kittens had been chasing butterflies at the river's edge and fell in. The mother cat, helpless to save them, started crying. The willows at the river's edge swept their long graceful branches into the water - the kittens gripped on tightly to the branches and were rescued. Each springtime since, goes the legend, willow branches sprout tiny fur-like buds where the tiny kittens once clung

DEVON REX

Its huge, low-set, batlike ears and large oval- shaped eyes make the Devon Rex the pixie or elf of the cat fancy. The Devon has wavy hair, but it is not “marcelled” like the Cornish Rex.

HISTORY

The first known Rex was born in 1950 when a wavy-haired kitten was born into a litter from two ordinary short-coated cats in Cornwall, England. In 1960, in Devon, England, a similarly coated kitten appeared. At first it was thought that this strain could be used as an outcross for the Cornish Rex but the Devon gene was not compatible with the Cornish Rex gene. When a Cornish was mated to a Devon, only straight haired kittens were produced. The mutations were located at different positions on the chromosome. The Cornish Rex and the Devon Rex would then go their separate ways, each being bred for different body types and waviness.

DESCRIPTION

The Devon’s body is slender and of medium length and frame, with a long neck and a hard, muscular, broad chest. Long, slim legs carry the body high off the ground. The hind legs are higher than the front legs. The long, slender tail should be covered with short fur. The small head is a modified wedge, with a short muzzle and a series of three distinct convex curves; outer edge of ears, cheekbones and whisker pads. The prominent whisker pads define a good muzzle break. The cheeks are very full. In profile, there should be a definite stop with the forehead curving back to a flat skull. A straight profile is not desirable, as it will not allow the formation of the pronounced muzzle break. The set of the ears is as much on the side as on the top of the head. The ears are ridiculously large, adding to the elfin look. The large, oval eyes are set wide apart. The coat is very short and soft with a relaxed wave, feeling like suede. Whiskers and eyebrows are crinkled. Some Devons have ear tufts and ear muffs (a patch of fur on the outside lower part of the ear) that accentuate their pixie look. The full-bodied yet fine, short, wavy fur that covers the Devon is of a distinctive texture because of the rexing of the Devon gene. No other recognized breed has this mutation. Devons may have down on the underparts of the body and this is not considered bareness. The coat may be thinner than that of the Cornish Rex. Allowances may be made for lack of full coat development on kittens with very good type, over fully coated kittens of a lesser type.

TEMPERAMENT

The Devon is alert, active and shows a lively interest in its surroundings. It has a good disposition, a very quiet voice and is especially suitable for apartment life. These cats make sweet, loving pets and are a delight to show.

BREEDERS

We currently have no Devon Rex breeders subscribing to this directory. For more information on breeds and breeders, please refer to Southern Alberta Calgary Cat Fanciers’ website at www.saccf.ca for more information.

DONSKOY

The Donskoy is usually Bald; although some have Flock, soft Velour or Brush Coats. Sphynx have the least fur covering of any breed of cat. They are described as feeling velvety and hot to the touch. The Brush coat, although rare, is ideal for a child that suffers from allergies to cat hair, yet still wants a fluffy kitten. If the child is not allergic to cat saliva, it can usually have one of these fluffy kittens of this coat type. The gene that causes the allergic reaction appears to be missing from their genetic make up. If you are allergic to cat saliva you may still be allergic to the Donskoy. (WARNING: consult your doctor first)

HISTORY

The Donskoy is a Russian breed whose history starts with the story of the first hairless cat which was found in the city Rostov-on-Don in Russia in 1987. Elena Kovaleva, Professor of the State Pedagogical Institute, encountered a wild scene as she headed home. Boys playing soccer with a bag and inside the bag was a kittens squalling in fear and pain. Elena took the bag and brought the kitten home. The kitten she named Varvara. She grew up...... loosing her hair.

Varvara was treated against lichen and demodecosis, but all in vain and within a couple of years she had given birth to completely hairless kittens. People decided the kittens had to be unhealthy and decided to get rid of them. That is all except one of the kittens which got to Irina Nemikina. Irina Nemikina -enthusiast and professional cat breeder. In several years Irina had generated a completely new breed of Russian hairless cat. The Donskoy!

DESCRIPTION

One of the main characteristics of the Donskoy is that one of it's coat types is it's complete lack of hair. Yes! It can be completely bald. No down or light covering of any kind that is found in other breeds that are considered hairless. In 1996 the breed was registered in World Cat Federation (WFC).

The Donskoy is quite different in appearance from the Canadian Sphynx and there is no connection between these types of hairless cats. In fact they are so genetically different the two can not be bred. The Canadian Sphynx carries a Recessive gene while the Donskoy carries a Dominant gene. Donskoy have a strong healthy heart and high resistance against stress and illness. The Donskoy has well-developed lungs, a compact muscular body and a rounded tummy. The paws have long fingers and toes (called monkey fingers) that make them look like little hands. The pads are very plump and thick. The brow is wide. The ears are gigantic as you can see on the photograph. The eyes are almond-shaped. The face is short, with large cheek-bones and a powerful chin.

TEMPERAMENT

If you want to get a Donskoy, you need to make sure your rooms are draft free and well heated in the winter. It should be warm enough so that a human could walk around naked without risking a cold. If you are away at work all day this is not the cat for you. They need company. They thrive on giving and receiving attention.

BREEDERS

Looking For MY HERO

Be the hero, opt to adopt.

(403) 205-4455 www.calgaryhumane.ca

EGYPTIAN MAU

The gooseberry-green-eyed Mau is the only natural spotted domestic cat. It may be descended from the small African wild cat, Felis libyca. The Mau, whose name means “cat” in Egyptian, is a very rare breed.

HISTORY

The Mau closely resembles the cats in the wall paintings of ancient Egypt; its ancestors could have been the cat loved and worshipped in those times. The modern Mau reportedly dates back to 1953 in Italy. Exhibition of these cats took place in 1955, at the Rome Cat Show. The Mau had to wait until 1968 for championship recognition in North America.

DESCRIPTION

The head is a rounded, modified wedge shape, with a medium sized rounded muzzle and a slight stop to the line of the nose. The medium to large ears are placed well back on the head. The large, almond-shaped eyes are gooseberry green. The facial expression is that of “I didn’t do it!” or one of surprise.

The semi-foreign, medium-long body shows well-developed musculature and medium boning. The hind legs are longer than the front legs. The high-set shoulder blades, higher than most breeds, give the Mau a cheetah-like gait. The Mau is equipped with a “belly flap” which allows the hind legs to stretch out a considerable distance, making it a very swift runner.

The medium-length coat is silky, fine and resilient. The cat’s spotted pattern and its light green eyes give it a beautiful, wild look.

TEMPERAMENT

Egyptian Maus are active, colorful cats, curious about everything, yet reserved. They love to lap sit or ride on their owner’s shoulders. They have been known to “cup” their paws like hands to drink water. They are quite friendly and affectionate to the people they like but will sometimes shy away from strangers. When the Mau is happy, it may wag its tail like a dog. Maus make delightful pets.

BREEDERS

We currently have no Egyptian Mau breeders subscribing to this directory. For more information on breeds and breeders, please refer to Southern Alberta Calgary Cat Fanciers’ website at www.saccf.ca for more information.

EXOTIC SHORTHAIR

These “Persians in pajamas” with their short, plush fur and wide-eyed, innocent expression have a distinctive teddy-bear look.

HISTORY

The Exotic Shorthair is a man-made breed, the result of selective breeding programs to produce a Persian type without long hair. This attempt started in the United States in the 1960s and was greeted with screams of outrage from some Persian breeders. Ultimately, through perseverance, Exotic Shorthairs were recognized for championship competition and have delighted cat fanciers ever since.

To obtain the shorthair characteristic, another breed had to be crossed with the Persian; most Exotic Shorthair breeders selected the American Shorthair. Burmese and British Shorthairs were also used, but since 1968 these two breeds have not been allowed as outcrosses. Many early Exotics did not have good Persian type, but today’s Exotics have exquisite Persian type as well as the Persian’s mellow disposition.

DESCRIPTION

Exotic Shorthair breeders are very exacting about the length and texture of their cats’ short, dense, plush coat. If the guard hairs are too long, the coat will drape down; this is not desirable. There should be an abundance of undercoat.

The cat should be firm in flesh, not fat, and well-balanced physically and temperamentally, giving the impression of robust power. The cobby body is well-rounded; the boning is sturdy, large and in proportion to the body. The muscles are firm and well-developed. The back should be short and level. The tail should be short. yet in proportion to the body and should be carried without a curve at an angle lower than the back, but not trailed when walking. In front view, forelegs should be short and straight, adding to a sturdy appearance, but not with a bulldog look; viewed from behind, the legs should be straight. The chest is to be deep, equally massive across the shoulders and rump with a short, well-rounded midsection. The feet are large and round with short toes. The coat of the Exotic should be full of life. The downhairs are dense, making the coat stand off from the body. In Persian type, the head should be a broad, round shape, massive, with great breadth of skull and a domed forehead. In profile, a straight line is seen from the forehead, nose and chin. The underlying bone structure is round, the cheeks full and prominent. There should be a sweet expression to the face. This is very important, as the cat should be pleasant to look at, never mean or frowning in appearance. Jaws are broad and powerful with perfect tooth occlusion. The short nose should be as broad as it is long, with a definite break between the eyes. Some prefer a deep nose break and a turned up nose. Others prefer a break with the nose taking a slightly downward turn. As long as the standard does not specify which is correct, either is acceptable. Yet it must be remembered that the nose must fit in the straight line of the dome and chin. therefore the shorter, turned-up nose would best meet this requirement. The chin is full, strong and well-developed, fitting into the round face. The neck should provide adequate support for the massive head and should be short, thick, well -muscled and powerful. The small ears are set wide apart and low on the head always fitting into the rounded contour. The eyes are large, round, full and expressive and are set wide apart. The eye color should conform to the coat color, the deeper the better.

TEMPERAMENT

The Exotic temperament is very sweet and lovable. They are calm cats who spend a fair amount of their time sleeping and playing when not eating. Though their curiosity is fully intact, they seldom run, jump or climb. They can have a surge of energy and suddenly romp like a kitten, but for the most part they are content with a very quiet life. They are very quiet cats and are well suited to apartment or city life where less vocal cats are appreciated.

….Continued

EXOTIC SHORTHAIR (CONTINUED)

BREEDERS

Katskit

Kathy Davey Calgary, Alberta Phone: (403) 697-7646 E-mail: [email protected]

HIMALAYAN

The Himalayan is the “pointed” version of the beautiful Persian. Originally called “Malayan Persians”, the first breeding program started in 1924 did not take off initially, but was revived in the 1930s .

HISTORY

The idea of the Himalayan may be traced to a geneticist in Sweden in 1922 who set about to introduce the pointed allele into the Persian gene pool. Longhair whites were bred to Siamese. Whether this was successful is unknown, as records of the results are unavailable. In 1924 there were reports of pointed longhairs, called Malayan Persians, but these cats soon disappeared from the record.

The Himalayan as we know it today was developed in the 1930s in Britain and North America. The breeding in the United States combined Siamese with smoke, silver tabby and black Persians. These crosses produced several shorthaired kittens. Two of the kittens were mated to produce a longhaired black female who was mated to her sire. This mating produced the first longhaired pointed kitten, named Debutante, born in the United States in 1935. It took five years to produce Debutante who was very Siamese in type. The breeding experiments in the United States were done primarily to gain more knowledge of domestic feline genetics. Breeders in Britain were to work toward establishing a new breed.

It took years of hard work to produce the necessary three-generation pedigree. In 1955 Himalayans received a breed number and a standard; in 1957 they were granted championship status. By the 1960s all cat organizations recognized them as a separate breed.

DESCRIPTION

Contemporary, "ideal" show Himalayans bear little resemblance to their ancestors. The earlier Himalayan breeders had no choice but to breed to Siamese to obtain the pointed allele; this brought about the tendency to favor fine boning, straight profiles, larger ears, wedge-shaped heads, close-set eyes, longer bodies and a long narrow tail - all completely undesirable in the Persian.

Now, the standard dictates that the cat should be firm in flesh, not fat, and well-balanced physically and temperamentally, giving the impression of robust power. The cobby body is well-rounded; the boning is sturdy, large and in proportion to the body. The muscles are firm and well-developed. The back should be short and level. The tail should be short. yet in proportion to the body; the plumed tail of the Himalayan should be short, carried without a curve at an angle lower than the back, but not trailed when walking. In front view, forelegs should be short and straight, adding to a sturdy appearance, but not with a bulldog look; viewed from behind, the legs should be straight. The chest is to be deep, equally massive across the shoulders and rump with a short, well-rounded midsection. The feet are large and round with short toes, toe tufts are desirable. The coat of the Himalayan should be full of life. The downhairs are dense, making the coat stand off from the body. The hair should be long all over the body, including the shoulders. The ruff should be immense and continue to a deep frill of hair around the neck between the front legs. In Himalayan type, the head should be a broad, round shape, massive, with great breadth of skull and a domed forehead. In profile, a straight line is seen from the forehead, nose and chin. The underlying bone structure is round, the cheeks full and prominent. There should be a sweet expression to the face. This is very important, as the cat should be pleasant to look at, never mean or frowning in appearance. Jaws are broad and powerful with perfect tooth occlusion. The short nose should be as broad as it is long, with a definite break between the eyes. Some prefer a deep nose break and a turned up nose. Others prefer a break with the nose taking a slightly downward turn. As long as the standard does not specify which is correct, either is acceptable. Yet it must be remembered that the nose must fit in the straight line of the dome and chin. therefore the e shorter, turned-up nose would best meet this requirement.

….Continued HIMALAYAN (CONTINUED)

The chin is full, strong and well-developed, fitting into the round face. The neck should provide adequate support for the massive head and should be short, thick, well -muscled and powerful. The small ears are set wide apart and low on the head always fitting into the rounded contour. The ear furnishings should be long and curved. The eyes are large, round, full and expressive and are set wide apart. It was thought that breeding to a Persian with a weak eye color would improve the deep blue color so greatly desired in the Himalayan. This proved untrue. To improve the eye color, the Himalayan should be taken to a Persian with the deepest eye color possible, such as a copper-eyed Persian. Himalayans have a very thick, woolly undercoat, causing the hair to be thick and plush. This, however, goes hand in hand with matting. They have to be combed and brushed constantly to keep the hair from matting, and they have to be bathed often. Do not plan to own a Himalayan unless you have adequate time to give to grooming.

TEMPERAMENT

The Himalayan temperament is very sweet and lovable. They are calm cats who spend a fair amount of their time sleeping and playing when not eating. Although their curiosity is fully intact, they seldom run, jump or climb. They can have a surge of energy and suddenly romp like a kitten, but for the most part they are content with a very quiet life. They are quiet cats and are well suited to apartment or city life where less vocal cats are appreciated.

BREEDERS

We currently have no Himalayan breeders subscribing to this directory. For more information on breeds and breeders, please refer to Southern Alberta Calgary Cat Fanciers’ website at www.saccf.ca for more information.

KORAT

The Korat is the silver-blue good luck cat with huge green eyes. The heart-shaped head of the Korat is like that of no other breed.

HISTORY

This is a very old shorthair breed from Thailand, dating back as far as the mid-fourteenth century. The Korat was first seen in England at a cat show as early as 1896. The first pair to be imported to the United States arrived in 1959 and were registered at that time. In 1966 the Korat competed in the championship classes for the first time. By 1969 all associations in North America recognized them for championship.

Many believe the Korat to be the forerunner of the blue point Siamese. In Thailand, the Korats are known as Si-Sawat cats. Si means color. Sawat means good fortune or prosperity; it also means a mingled color of gray and light green. The Thais consider these cats to be symbols of good fortune; their silvery blue color signifies wealth. The gift of a pair of Si-Sawat cats to a bride insures a fortunate marriage. The Thai people place so much value on the Si-Sawat cat that it is rare for one to be sold. They will give them as gifts to those they hold in high esteem.

DESCRIPTION

This is a semi-cobby, shorthair cat of great strength, with a pale, silvery blue coat, a heart-shaped face and large, luminous green eyes. The expressive eyes are unlike those of other cats; they are oversize for the face, with great depth and an intense gaze. The eyes must be set well apart, fitting into the top part of the heart shape of the face or the “look” of the Korat is not there. An amber cast to the green eyes is acceptable. One of the most distinctive aspects of this breed is the double-heart-shaped head; a heart-shaped face on a heart-shaped head. The eyebrow ridges form the upper curves, which run gently down to the muzzle to complete the heart. The forehead is large and flat. The large ears are set high on the head. There is a slight stop between the forehead and the nose. The semi-cobby body is of medium size, muscular, with strong leg boning, giving a sense of the power of a hard-coiled spring and unexpected weight for its size. The back is carried in a curve. The tail is medium in length. The legs are of moderate length, the front legs slightly shorter than the back legs. The single coat is short to medium in length, glossy and fine, lying close to the body. The color is pale silver-blue all over, with no shading or tabby markings. The silver tipping gives a frosty or silvery sheen or halo effect over the entire cat, like a silver cloud over a blue sky.

TEMPERAMENT

Korats are very intelligent and make loving pets. They are very quiet, having a very soft voice. It is to be remembered that the Korats are very slow to develop and go through an “ugly duckling” stage when they are young. Korats have a keen sense of hearing, sight and scent. They are gentle, moving softly with caution, disliking sudden, loud or harsh noises. They form a very strong bond with their owner and truly enjoy being near the ones they love, making loyal and delightful pets.

BREEDERS

Li’l Minx Trish Strong #104 - 2310 - 17 A Street SW Calgary, Alberta T2T 4S1 Phone: (403) 228-0916 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.telusplanet.net/public/tstrong

SPAYING AND NEUTERING

RECOMMENDED AGE FOR SURGERY

• The normal range is six to nine months of age – surgery can be done earlier and of course later although with later surgeries you run the risk of an unexpected pregnancy.

PRE-SURGERY

• Your pet should be in good health prior to surgery – if not the veterinarian may re-schedule the surgery to avoid risk of complications. • Withhold food from your pet the evening before and the day of surgery. Water should be withheld before surgery – suggested length of time can vary so do check with your veterinarian when you make the surgery appointment. Follow your veterinarian’s instructions – it is very important to your pet’s health. A full stomach can result in vomiting and aspiration while under anaesthetic.

SURGERY

• Performed under general anaesthetic. • In females the uterus, tubes and ovaries are removed. • In males the testicles are removed.

POST-SURGERY

• Males usually can go home the day of surgery. • Females can sometimes go home the day of surgery or usually the following day. • For more difficult surgeries or if there are complications your pet may require a few days hospital stay. • When your pet comes home – feed it small amounts of food and water that day and the following day. • Keep your pet quiet for a few days after surgery to prevent tearing of sutures. • Do not let your pet lick or chew at sutures. Check the sutures twice a day and if there appears to be any abnormalities, check with your veterinarian. • A re-check of your pet in about ten days may be recommended by your veterinarian.

HEALTH/BEHAVIORAL ADVANTAGES – SPAYING

• Reduces risk of mammary cancer. • Eliminates risk of uterine cancer. • Eliminates the risk of pyometra – a serious disease involving production of pus in the uterus. • Eliminates annoying behaviors associated with going into ‘heat’.

HEALTH/BEHAVIORAL ADVANTAGES – NEUTERING

• Reduces risk of prostate cancer. • Eliminates risk of testicular cancer. • Less likely to spray in house and urine odor greatly reduced. • Often causes pets to be less aggressive.

….Continued SPAYED/NEUTERED PETS LESS LIKELY TO WANDER REDUCING RISKS OF:

• Fighting and being exposed to infectious diseases. • Being hit by a vehicle. • Getting lost.

MYTHS ABOUT SPAYING AND NEUTERING

• There is absolutely no benefit to pets physically or emotionally in having one litter prior to surgery. • Neutering or spaying will not make pets fat and lazy – this is caused by overfeeding and lack of exercise.

COST OF SURGERY

• Costs vary at different clinics – if cost is a concern check for clinics that do low cost spays/neuters. • Many animal welfare societies will help with the cost of spays/neuters for low income pet owners.

Shelters throughout the province are filled with unwanted cats as there are not enough homes for all the kittens being born. By having your pet spayed or neutered as soon as

their age allows – you can be part of the solution to the

problem of pet over-population.

MAINE COON

The Maine Coon is one of the largest among breeds of domestic cats and is often referred to as the "gentle giant" of the cat fancy. It is lynx-like in appearance, yet gentle in temperament. It is North America's only natural longhair breed, and the state of Maine's official cat.

HISTORY

Many believe the Norwegian Forest cat to be an ancestor of the Maine Coon; indeed, some of the present-day Norwegian Forest cats in Norway resemble the Maine Coon. Others believed them to be the result of matings, in Maine, between semi-wild domestic cats and raccoons (a genetic impossibility), hence the name. Another story tells that a cat was brought by ship to Maine by a certain Captain Coon, and that it escaped, lived in the woods and mated with the semi-wild domestic cats. The breed probably developed through a process of natural selection. Whatever the origin, it may be surmised that breeders discovered these wonderful animals and carefully bred them to preserve the look of the original "wild" Maine Coons.

There is little doubt that this breed has been around for a long time. Maine Coons were exhibited in many of the early cat shows, one winning at the 1895 Madison Square Garden Cat Show. These magnificent cats fell from favor with the arrival of the flashier Persians from Great Britain, only to come back to full glory in recent years through the dedicated efforts of American breeders. The earlier Maine Coons were often regarded with disdain, some breeders referring to them as barn cats or alley cats. They did not have an eye for the rugged beauty of this cat! In the 1950's Maine Coons were shown once again and in the 1970's they started making a real comeback by winning Best in Show awards. The Maines of today hold their own with any other breed. In the past, judges had been reluctant to award these rugged- looking, unpolished cats, so different from the manicured, every-hair-in-place, magnificent Persians. In today's cat shows, Maines may outnumber some of the other breeds. The Maines are here to stay!

DESCRIPTION

The Maine Coon is a mixture of elegance and ruggedness, wildness and gentleness. It is a large, semi-long-haired cat, with a shaggy coat, large ears and an extremely long, full, plume tail; a "working" cat, able to fend for itself in rough, woody terrain and under extreme climate conditions, exhibiting exceptional strength due to heavy boning and sturdy muscles. Maines are very slow to mature, not reaching full growth until three to five years of age. Males weigh twelve to eighteen pounds; females are usually smaller. The Maine, however, should not be judged on poundage and size alone. Without the large ears, high cheekbones, strong, square muzzle, the long, strong rectangular body, firm legs and large paws, and the extra-long bushy tail, the "look" is not there. The head shape is a broad modified wedge, with rounded contours, wide nose and a square muzzle. The strikingly large, wide ears are set well apart on top of the head, never on the sides, and should not flare out. Lynx tipping and ear furnishings are desirable. The eyes are large and oval. Legs should be of medium length. The tail should be the same length as the measure from the base of the neck to the base of the spine. The shaggy, uneven coat lies flat, having very little undercoat. Toe tufts may be present, which some believe, aids the cat in walking on snow. Maine Coons may be shown in all colors and patterns except the pointed, sepia and mink colors

TEMPERAMENT

Males tend to be very possessive of their owner and extremely loyal. Females may appear, at times, to be grumpy, especially if they can bluff you. They may first growl; if that doesn’t work, they will “huff and puff”. Even a small kitten can call this bluff, causing the twelve pounder to slink away with its tail between its legs. The females are excellent mothers, which is just as well, as litters may number seven or eight kittens. Maines are extremely intelligent and exhibit a keen interest in their surroundings.

....Continued

MAINE COON (CONTINUED)

These are mellow cats, amiable and easy to get along with when they know you. They give the impression of being kind and considerate. They do not necessarily want to be held, but want to be close to the person they love, following from room to room. Usually they will bond with only one person and are completely loyal to that individual. They are usually very quiet, although when they see something as interesting as a bug or a bird, they may stand on their hind legs, like a bear, and make a chirping sound. Many Maines will fetch and return an object. They do not like to be restricted, yet, loving the outdoors, they can be trained to walk on a leash. They enjoy the snow and seem to even enjoy getting wet. These are truly gentle giants; they own you, not the other way around.

BREEDERS

Hooked on Coons Mistycoons

Bonny Giesbrecht Julia Duguid Medicine Hat, Alberta Edmonton, Alberta Phone: (403) 526-5647 Phone: (780) 466-6292 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Website: http://hookedoncoons.homestead.com/index.html

Because the 9 lives thing is a myth.

Dr. Liz Ruelle, Dr. Kim Van Winckle

We are a full service veterinary practice devoted exclusively to the care of cats in a compassionate, caring, professional environment.

Preventative Health Care Laboratory/Diagnostics Dentistry Behavior Counseling Pharmacy X-Ray Nutrition Counseling Anesthesia & Surgery Hospitalization

Location: Hours: Unit 64, 180 - 94 Ave SE Weekdays 8 am - 6 pm In McLeod Plaza near Office Depot Thursdays 8 am - 8 pm Saturdays 9 am - 4 pm Ph: (403) 278-5533 Closed Sundays & Mondays New Patients Purrfectly Welcome!

NORWEGIAN FOREST

The native longhaired cat of Norway. It has a thick, heavy, all-weather coat, a huge bushy tail and large, appealing almond-shaped eyes. These strong, sturdy, intelligent cats like to walk beside you like a loving dog.

HISTORY

The Norwegian Forest, or Skogkatt, is a very old breed in Norway; their origin is unknown. They are not of Persian descent, as Persian cats did not enter Norway until the twentieth century and the Norwegian Forest dates back much earlier. It is not a domesticated wild cat, zoologists agree that Scandinavia had no wild cats. In Norway, the early cat lived outdoors, and they still prefer to be outdoors. Norse mythology speaks of a cat so huge that even the god Thor could not lift it from the ground. The goddess of love and fertility, Freya, had a carriage pulled by two large cats. These cats developed the necessary attributes for survival: a heavy double coat; sturdy boning; long hind legs and strong claws for swift strong running, jumping and climbing, enhancing their hunting ability and allowing them to be comfortable on the snow, in a tree, or in rocky terrain. In earlier days, these cats lived in the wooded areas of the Norwegian countryside. Through the years they became more and more rare until they were on the verge of disappearing as a separate breed. It was not until the early 1970’s that a real effort was made to preserve this unique breed. There are more than twelve hundred presently registered in Norway. They are fairly new to North America and the breed was recognized for championship status in TICA in 1984.

DESCRIPTION

The body of the Norwegian Forest is large and imposing, of moderate length with heavy boning and substantial musculature. There should be considerable depth of flank. The legs are medium in length, the hind legs longer than the forelegs. The full, flowing tail is as long as the body. The straight lines of the head should fit into an equilateral triangle. The muzzle is nearly square. The almond shaped eyes are extremely large and expressive. The ears are medium to large, placed as much on the side as on the top of the head, with ear furnishings extending beyond the outer edge of the ear. The distinctive all-weather, double coat is semi-long, uneven and dense, with a full ruff. Water can bead up on the top of the coat, bathing can be a problem as it takes a lot of shampoo to cut through the oil in the coat. It is not usually necessary to comb them out as the fur usually does not mat. In general, grooming is no problem; the cats keep themselves very clean.

TEMPERAMENT The Norwegian Forest cats have a soothing disposition. Many owners have said that they have had cats all their lives and never have encountered such lovable ones. If the cats have a fault, it is that they want to be with you and love you all the time. But lap sitters they are not, or only on their own terms. They will pile up on your bed at night but prefer not to sleep under the covers. They are gentle and extremely calm, but they do not miss a thing.

They are usually very quiet, so quiet that it is difficult to know when the female is in season. They usually consider game playing beneath their dignity and will sit quietly observing other cats at play. At times, however, there will be a sudden burst of kittenish behavior. They are very intelligent, dependable and sensible.

BREEDERS

SaskKats

Don & Lorraine E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.saskkats.com

OCICAT

The spotted leopard of the cat fancy, the Ocicat is one of the newer recognized breeds, a man made mix of Abyssinian, Siamese and American Shorthair. It is a large cat with a feral look. Care is given in breeding the Ocicat to perpetuate a loving, sweet disposition.

HISTORY

The first Ocicat, Tonga, was born in 1964. Her breeder was experimenting with a breeding program. The breeder wanted to put the agouti tabby pattern on her lynx point Siamese by crossing Abyssinian and Siamese. A female hybrid from this cross was mated to a chocolate point Siamese. Among the offspring was the sought-after agouti lynx point Siamese who had bright golden spots on an ivory ground color. Tonga was neutered and sold as a pet, however when more such cats arrived from further matings of Tonga’s dam and sire, their beauty could not be ignored. A serious breeding program for Ocicats began. A few dedicated breeders have worked over the past twenty years to perfect the color, pattern, type and disposition of this cat. Early breeders not only worked with the Abyssinian and Siamese, but introduced the American Shorthair into the gene pool to increase the size of the offspring. This also brought in the desired silver gene.

Today, breeders no longer use the Siamese or the American Shorthair. Since 1986, only the Abyssinian can be used as an outcross to improve type and enlarge the gene pool. In 1987 the Ocicat was granted championship status in most major North American organizations.

DESCRIPTION

The Ocicat is a large, spotted tabby cat of a moderate type, noted for its “wild” appearance. The breeders’ intention was to create a cat that captured the distinctive look of a feral spotted cat while preserving the good temperament of the domestic animal. While closest in type to the Abyssinian, the Ocicat is a larger, more robust and athletic animal than today’s show quality Abyssinian. The average female weighs seven to ten pounds, the male twelve to fifteen pounds.

The semi-foreign body type is substantial. The medium-long legs are well-muscled and sturdy; with the hind legs slightly longer than the forelegs. The tail should be long. The head is a modified wedge with rounded contours, with a slight stop from the bridge of the nose to the brow, a good muzzle and a strong chin. The moderately large ears are set on the corners of the head; lynx tipping is desirable. The large, almond-shaped eyes are rather wide-set. The fine coat, which should be long enough to carry several bands of ticking, is thick, tight and close-lying.

The pattern of the Ocicat is unique, with large, thumbprint-shaped spots that appear to be randomly scattered across the torso following the classic tabby markings. The sides never match; each should show a spot circled by spots mimicking the classic tabby “bull’s eye”. The better Ocicats have spots on the haunches, shoulders, legs and tail and have dorsal spots rather than a stripe. Ocicats are shown only in the spotted tabby pattern and the brown or black based colors (which may or may not be silvered).

TEMPERAMENT

Ocicats are loving and gentle and very intelligent. They can be taught to respond to voice commands and seem to enjoy performing tricks. They look like spotted leopards yet have the loving disposition of any domestic pussycat.

BREEDERS

We currently have no Ocicat breeders subscribing to this directory. For more information on breeds and breeders, please refer to Southern Alberta Calgary Cat Fanciers’ website at www.saccf.ca for more information.

ORIENTAL

The Oriental is a man-made breed and comes in both a Shorthair and a Longhair variety. The Oriental Shorthair has a short, fine textured coat, glossy or satin-like, that lies close to body. The Oriental Longhair has a coat that is medium length, fine, silky, without downy undercoat, lying close to the body. The coat may actually appear shorter than it is. Hair is longest on the tail.

HISTORY

In England, the various colors produced from breeding Siamese to domestic cats, Russian Blues and other cats were given unique color names and were granted breed status according to the individual color and pattern. Kittens from the same litter could be registered as different breeds, based on their color or coat pattern.

Orientals represent a diverse group of cats that have their foundation in the Siamese breed. When the Oriental Shorthair was accepted for championship status it rapidly became one of the most popular breeds. With the addition of the Oriental Longhair into this family of sleek, muscular felines the Oriental breed can provide a cat for just about anyone.

DESCRIPTION

These are two of several breeds described as Oriental. The four breeds have the same type; they are separated only by variations in color, pattern and hair length. They are beautiful and they know it. The Oriental type is characterized by large ears, a wedge-shaped head, a long neck, a long body and legs, and a long, whippy, pointed tail. To handle these cats is likened to feeling a silk glove over an iron hand. These cats are fine boned and delicate in appearance, long and elegant in every extreme while retaining firm, hard muscles. They should feel as hard as rock, never emaciated or too thin.

The Oriental may be shown in solid colors or in patterns.

TEMPERAMENT

The Oriental requires little grooming. These super-intelligent cats make wonderful pets if the owner can put up with the constant demand for companionship. They want to be with you every moment of every day. They will befriend you for life. ....Continued ORIENTAL (CONTINUED)

BREEDERS

Balimoor Toreador Maureen Davies Angela Hick-Ewing Calgary, Alberta Morinville, Alberta Phone : (403)-239-9519 Phone: (780)939-6690 Fax: (403)-241-8233 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: members.shaw.ca/balimoor

Whispernwoods Terri-Ann Gillingham Calgary, Alberta Phone : (403)-202-0114 Email: [email protected]

PERSIAN

The Persian is considered by many to be the aristocrat of the cat fancy. It was revered from the first moment it was seen and has held top billing ever since.

HISTORY

The exact origin of the Persian is unknown. By some accounts they originated in Asia Minor and were first seen in Europe in the early 1700s, although there were reports of long haired cats in Italy (imported from Asia) in the late 1500s. Early British books

referred to these cats as French cats or Angoras. They were reported to have come from Ankara, Turkey, also the supposed birthplace of the Turkish Angora, to whom they bore a close resemblance. The Turkish Angora was used in many breeding programs as it was prized for its beautiful long coat; it is speculated that Turkish Angora genes can be found in many of our modern cats. Most of the Persians exhibited at the first cat show in Britain, in 1871, were black, blue or white. Queen Victoria and other members of Britain's royal family kept blue Persians, adding to their popularity. Gradually, different colors and patterns have been introduced and accepted for championship competition, though blue is still a popular color. Persians were first introduced to North America toward the end of the nineteenth century and were just as popular among the breeders, exhibitors and judges in this country as they were in Britain and Asia.

DESCRIPTION

Contemporary, "ideal" show Persians bear little resemblance to their ancestors. The earlier Persians had longer faces, larger ears, smaller, more closely-set eyes and rangier, longer bodies. The type of the early Persian was changed radically with the introduction of longhaired cats from Persia (Iran) into the "Angora-Persian" gene pool. The Iranian Persian brought sturdy bodies, short legs, broader, rounder heads and longer, thicker fur. When the Angora and the Iranian cats were crossed, the foreign type began to disappear and the cobby type replaced the rangier early type. Subsequent cats were bred to capitalize on the sturdy, compact Iranian Persian type. The breed was soon known simply as Persian.

The cat should be firm in flesh, not fat, and well-balanced physically and temperamentally, giving the impression of robust power. The cobby body is well-rounded; the boning is sturdy, large and in proportion to the body. The muscles are firm and well-developed. The back should be short and level. The tail should be short, yet in proportion to the body; the plumed tail of the Persian should be short, carried without a curve at an angle lower than the back, but not trailed when walking. In front view, forelegs should be short and straight, adding to a sturdy appearance, but not with a bulldog look; viewed from behind, the legs should be straight. The chest is to be deep, equally massive across the shoulders and rump with a short, well-rounded midsection. The feet are large and round with short toes, toe tufts are desirable. The coat of the Persian should be full of life. The downhairs are dense, making the coat stand off from the body. The hair should be long all over the body, including the shoulders. The ruff should be immense and continue to a deep frill of hair around the neck between the front legs. In Persian type, the head should be a broad, round shape, massive, with great breadth of skull and a domed forehead. In profile, a straight line is seen from the forehead, nose and chin. The underlying bone structure is round, the cheeks full and prominent. There should be a sweet expression to the face. This is very important, as the cat should be pleasant to look at, never mean or frowning in appearance. Jaws are broad and powerful with perfect tooth occlusion. The short nose should be as broad as it is long, with a definite break between the eyes. Some prefer a deep nose break and a turned up nose. Others prefer a break with the nose taking a slightly downward turn. As long as the standard does not specify which is correct, either is acceptable. Yet it must be remembered that the nose must fit in the straight line of the dome and chin, therefore the shorter, turned-up nose would best meet this requirement. The chin is full, strong and well-developed, fitting into the round face. The neck should provide adequate support for the massive head and should be short, thick, well-muscled and powerful. The small ears are set wide apart and low on the head always fitting into the rounded contour. The ear furnishings should be long and curved. The eyes are large, round, full and expressive and are set wide apart. The eye color should conform to the coat color, the deeper the better. Persians have a very thick, woolly undercoat, causing the hair to be thick and plush. This, however, goes hand in hand with matting. They have to be combed and brushed constantly to keep the hair from matting, and they have to be bathed often. Do not plan to own a Persian unless you have adequate time to give to grooming.

....Continued

PERSIAN (CONTINUED)

TEMPERAMENT

The Persian temperament is very sweet and lovable. They are calm cats who spend a fair amount of their time sleeping and playing when not eating. Although their curiosity is fully intact, they seldom run, jump or climb. They can have a surge of energy and suddenly romp like a kitten, but for the most part they are content with a very quiet life. They are quiet cats and are well suited to apartment or city life where less vocal cats are appreciated.

BREEDERS

CatWalkCats Katskit

Trish de Coverley Kathy Davey Innisfail, Alberta Calgary, Alberta Phone: 403-728-3868 Phone: (403) 697-7646 E-mail: kpweston@ E-mail: [email protected] hotmail.com

RAGDOLL

The blue-eyed, pointed, semi-longhaired Ragdoll is one of the largest and most docile of all the breeds. It loves being carried draped around its owner’s shoulders, just like a limp ragdoll.

HISTORY

The exact origin of the Ragdoll is unknown. The breed may be only about twenty years old, and it is not known whether this is a man-made cat or a stroke of nature. The early Ragdolls, so the story goes, were the result of kittens born to a white Persian who was injured in an automobile accident. The kittens were supposedly free of pain or fear and were very docile. Most biologists would dispute this theory! The genotype of the Ragdoll would have to include both the gene for points and the gene for white spotting. If one of the parents was a white Persian, it would most probably be a dominant white with white spotting, carrying one gene for pointed. There is no information about the sire. He would have to be either a pointed cat or a cat carrying the pointed gene.

DESCRIPTION

The Ragdoll is a semi-longhaired pointed cat of considerable size, with a very sweet and docile disposition. The ideal Ragdoll grows exceptionally large and heavy. Full development of color is not achieved until two years of age. Full weight and size are not achieved until the cat is at least four years of age.

The head is or medium length and is a broad, modified wedge with rounded contours, with a flat plane between the ears. The chin is well-developed. The nose profile shows a gentle stop. The medium-sized ears form a continuation of the modified wedge. The eyes are to be blue and are large and oval.

The cat should be firm with no fat except on the lower abdomen. The long body should be large and substantial, with a full, broad chest. The tail should be long. The legs are medium in length with medium-heavy boning and musculature. The back legs are to be higher than the front legs. The feet are large, round and tufted between the toes.

The semi-longhaired coat lies with the body but separates as the cat moves. It is longest around the neck, giving the appearance of a bib. It is shortest on the face and medium to long on the sides, stomach and on the hind legs, where it is thick and feather-like.

Ragdolls are shown in solid point and parti-color (mitted and bi-color patterns only) and in seal chocolate, cinnamon, blue, frost and fawn colors.

TEMPERAMENT

Ragdolls are docile, gentle, quite and easy to get along with. They enjoy human companionship and seem to have a “nothing bothers me” attitude toward life. The make sweet and endearing pets and are very easy to show, due to their gentle nature. Children and Ragdolls mix very well; the cats appear to love being carried around by children.

BREEDERS

….Continued RAGDOLL (CONTINUED)

BREEDERS

Cupids Elaine Lenbach High River, Alberta Phone: (403) 652-7592 Email: [email protected] Website: www.cupidsragdolls.com

Padruig Isy Mitchell Calgary, Alberta Phone: (403) 217-3188 Email: [email protected]

SAVANNAH

Savannah is an exceptionally graceful, well-balanced cat being developed by breeders that love the exotic look of an African Serval mixed with the more mellow temperament and smaller size of a domesticated cat. Nicknamed "small cheetahs," Savannahs were first bred in this country in the 1980's and have grown considerably in popularity since then. These special cats make wonderful family pets and provide fanciers a much smaller and more manageable version of the exotic African Serval.

HISTORY

The Savannah cat is one of the newest breeds of cats currently being developed by a select few breeders around the world. There are very few Savannahs currently in existence, and the demand for them is quite high. The Savannah is the result of crossing an African Serval cat to a domestic cat. There is a variety of domestic cats (most often termed domestic shorthairs) used in breeding programs to create the early generation Savannahs, including Oriental Shorthairs, Egyptian Mau's, Serengeti’s, Bengal’s, etc. While it is not difficult to have a Serval to Serval breeding take place, it can be very difficult to accomplish the Serval to domestic cat breeding. The first documented breeding of an African Serval to a domestic cat was accomplished in the mid 1980's by Judy Frank, a Bengal breeder and cat fancier in Pennsylvania. The Savannah breed, still in the early stages of development, provides a smaller more manageable size (approximately 20 pounds, vs. the 40 pound Serval), Savannahs use litter boxes and do not require any special diets, facilities or veterinary care.

DESCRIPTION

Savannahs are breathtakingly gorgeous, with beautiful spotted and striped coats and colors ranging from silver to amber. They have distinctive "tear drop" markings around their eyes and large round ears. The Savannah is a very graceful, uniquely built cat, with a lovely long neck, long legs and ears, and a three-quarter length tail. The breed standard states that they may be solid, tabby or silver/shaded in pattern, with the allowable colors in those patterns to be black, brown spotted tabby, silver spotted tabby or black smoke. The breed standard calls for a head shape that is longer than it is wide. When the face is viewed from the front it should form a distinct triangle. The head of the Savannah is slightly smaller than in proportion to the body. In profile, the nose is long but with a small chin and should add to the cat's wild appearance. The ears of the Savannah are to be large and alert, with a wide base and slightly rounded tips.

TEMPERAMENT

They are very intelligent cats that enjoy romping, jumping and, surprisingly enough, are often curious and play with water! Savannahs have a high energy level and, for many people, are the ultimate compromise between a dog and a cat. Many Savannah owners compare their Savannahs' behavior (friendly, outgoing, eager to please) to that of a dog. However, while they may sound "ideal," Savannahs are not for everyone. They are extremely intelligent and act like they are a member of your family. With few exceptions, they bond very closely with their owners and enjoy playing an active role in your family. Their energy levels are much higher than domestic cats and, like most pets; they need to be monitored around small children and pets (birds, gerbils, etc). If you are searching for an intelligent, devoted, loving addition to your family, then a Savannah might be for you!

….Continued

SAVANNAH (CONTINUED)

BREEDERS

SCOTTISH FOLD

With huge round eyes, deliberate, slow movements and folded-down ears, the owlish appearance of the Scottish Fold is unique among cats. It comes in both a shorthaired and longhaired variety.

HISTORY

This is a new breed that began as a spontaneous mutation discovered in 1961 when a white kitten with folded-down ears was born on a farm in Scotland. This kitten, named Susie, later had kittens and two in the litter had folded ears as well. One of Susie’s daughters, named Snooks, had a litter with a white male with folded ears. This was the beginning of the Scottish Fold breeding program.

The gene causing the folding of the ears was a non-lethal mutation, a single dominant gene (possibly an incomplete dominant). The responsible gene appears to manifest itself in the cartilage in the ears and may affect cartilage development elsewhere in the body. There is considerable controversy about the breeding of Folds. Some breeders believe that breeding together two folded-ear adults may lead to kittens with other abnormalities such as gnarling of the feet, a condition resembling arthritis, or cartilage growth around the joints which makes it difficult for the Fold to walk. Breeders have found that if the tail is short and stiff, this may be evidence of stiffening in other parts of the cat’s body. Some breeders, however, believe these concerns to be unfounded and claim they have bred Fold-eared adults together with no adverse effects.

Choice of outcross is, of course, important for healthy kittens. The breed has been established by crosses to British Shorthairs and domestic cats in Scotland and England. In America the outcrosses are Exotic, American and British Shorthairs. The British Shorthair outcross produces a denser coat and rounder eyes.

DESCRIPTION

Kittens are born with straight ears; the folding does not begin until they are about two or three weeks of age. The overall impression of the Scottish Fold is roundness. The small-to-medium ears are set in a cap-like fashion on a rounded skull, and are folded forward and downward. A smaller, tightly-folded ear is preferable to a loose fold and large ears. The large, round eyes are separated by a broad nose. Rounded, full cheeks and muzzle add to the desired full look. In profile, there is a slight stop.

The semi-cobby body is medium-sized, well padded and even from the shoulder to the hips. The body and the medium to short legs are medium boned with sturdy muscles. The tail is tapered and should be no shorter than two-thirds the length of the body and must be flexible. The longer, tapering tail is preferred. The dense and resilient coat is either short or semi-long. In the Longhair Scottish Fold, the coat should be semi-long and dense and should stand away from the body.

TEMPERAMENT

Scottish Folds are very sweet, gentle, quiet cats. They make no demands on life, other than to be close to the people they love.

BREEDERS

SIAMESE

Today’s Siamese bears little resemblance to the old “apple head” Siamese. The top show Siamese is now very extreme, long and pointed in every direction.

HISTORY

The Siamese cat is reported to have originated in Siam (Thailand). Old paintings show a cat with darker color on the ears, face, paws and tail.

There were large classes of Siamese shown in the United States in the 1960s. By the 1980s the breed had dropped off dramatically, though it is making a comeback in recent years. In the early 1960s there was a cat named Fan Tee Cee who changed the whole concept of Siamese. His head and body were very long, his eyes were almond-shaped and his coat was short and glossy. Some judges and breeders could not stand this change, others longed for it. The new body shape won out in the end.

DESCRIPTION

The wedge shaped head, which ends in a fine muzzle, should fit into a long triangular shape. In profile, a straight line without a dip or rise is seen from the center of the forehead to the tip of the nose and from the tip of the nose to the bottom of the chin. There should not be a whisker pinch; that is, the line from the side of the chin to the base of the ears should be straight with no indentation where the muzzle attaches to the skull. Large, broad-based ears extend and complete the triangular head as a continuation of the wedge and are angled slightly forward. The medium-sized, almond- shaped eyes should be approximately one eye’s width apart, with a slant toward the nose and the outer aperture in line with the center of the ear base. This combination of eye shape, size, placement and set gives the eyes a decidedly oriental look. The slender, graceful neck is carried to display length and adds to the elegance of the cat. The long, tubular body is medium in size, with fine or slender boning and hard muscles. The legs are long with the hind legs longer than the forelegs. The feet are oval, small and dainty. In TICA, the Siamese are recognized in all of the pointed colors and patterns except the parti-color point.

TEMPERAMENT

Oriental cats are vocal; and not only when they are in season. As loving as these cats are, their calling may not make them popular with the neighbours. They will often carry on a running conversation with their owners and their genuine love of people brings an assurance of close companionship. They are active, and their minds seem to be whirling with activity. If they do not have a playmate, they will create one out of anything. Height beckons a flight up or down; they delight in jumping and have been seen to leap four or five feet in any direction with ease. They are not outdoor cats. Most will make no effort to escape into the great unknown. The Siamese requires little grooming. These super-intelligent cats make wonderful pets if the owner can put up with the constant demand for companionship. They want to be with you every moment of every day. They will befriend you for life.

….Continued

SIAMESE (CONTINUED)

BREEDERS

Balimoor Angel Eyes Sylvia Foulds Maureen Davies Phone: (780) 455-0330 Calgary, Alberta Email: [email protected] Phone : (403)-239-9519 Website: www.angeleyesbirmans.com Fax: (403)-241-8233 Email: [email protected] Website: members.shaw.ca/balimoor

Whispernwoods Zsuzse

Terri-Ann Gillingham Suzanne Zwarun Calgary, Alberta Calgary, Alberta Phone : (403)-202-0114 Phone: (403) 279-5815 Email: [email protected] Fax: 403-932-5900 Email: [email protected] Website: www.siamese-zsuzse.com

Why and how do cats purr?

Purring is part of every cat's repertoire of social communication, apparently created by the movement of air in spasms through contractions of the diaphragm. Interestingly, purring is sometimes heard in cats who are severely ill or anxious, perhaps as a self-comforting vocalization. But, more typically, it is a sign of contentment, first heard in kittens as they suckle milk from their mother.

In adults, purring is heard in domesticated cats when they are petted, and in feral cats during sexual or other social contexts. Like submissive posturing among dogs, purring may be a signal of appeasement to other cats or to people, a way to communicate that the purring cat need not be threatened.

As with many behaviors in dogs and cats, the original presumed purpose of the behavior may not be directly relevant in a pet home. But we do believe that, when our healthy pet cats purr, they are happy and at peace.

SIBERIAN

The Siberian is an ancient breed, which has just become popular in North America. It is considered somewhat “hypoallergenic” because it lacks a certain protein in its saliva.

HISTORY

The Siberian is northern Russia’s native semi-longhaired cat. Due to the extremely cold climate, they developed superior survival qualities such as longer hair with a non-matting undercoat, thicker skin, and water repellent coats. The Siberian arrived in Moscow and St. Petersburg, brought there by Russian emigrants leaving the cold inhospitable climate of the North. The Siberian lines we see in North America originate mostly from these cities.

This breed is relatively new to North America. The first three Siberian cats were imported into the U.S. in 1990 in an exchange program for Himalayans. Additional Siberians were imported in 1991 and the new breeding program was underway. The first American litter of Siberians was born on July 13, 1991. The first task to be completed was to have the American registries recognize the breed. ACFA and TICA were the first registries to allow the breed to be shown as NBC (New Breed or Colour). The breed is now accepted for Championship status in most of the major Cat Associations.

DESCRIPTION

The Siberian is a large, strong cat, which takes about five years to mature. The females may weigh less than the males. They are extremely agile and great leapers. The overall appearance should be one of great strength, force and size with a sweet expression and excellent condition. The head is a modified wedge of medium size with rounded contours with a full rounded muzzle and a well-rounded chin. The ears are medium-large, wide and set as much on the sides of the head as on the top, about 1 to 1½ ear widths apart. Lynx tipping is desirable as are generous ear furnishings. The eyes are large and almost round. There is no relationship between eye colour and coat colour/pattern, though the typical adult colour is yellow-green. The coat is moderately long, to long, with an abundant ruff. There is a tight undercoat, thicker in cold weather. Siberians are available in a wide range of colours and patterns.

TEMPERAMENT

The Siberians have a wonderful dog like personality and they are very affectionate!!! Unlike many cats this breed will come over and greet strangers. They are very intelligent and learn quickly, and even “problem solve” to get what they want. They love to be spoken to and will often come running if called by name. Siberians also have a triple purr and unlike other breeds make a chirping sound when coming up to greet you. They also have a large bushy tail that stands at attention and does a shimmering effect when happy, that may look like they are spraying to some which is not what they are doing. Siberians have a fascination with water, often dropping toys into their water dishes or investigating bathtubs before they dry. This is the ideal lap cat that is calm and yet very active at playtime.

BREEDERS

SINGAPURA

The Singapura is a shorthaired cat that has large eyes and an unusual color coat of warm beige, sable-ticked. Although small, they are muscular cats. They have soft, voices and like being near their family. They are gentle, outgoing, good-natured, and mischievous at times

HISTORY

The Singapura is the world’s smallest domestic cat. They were only recognised as a breed in 1974 when the first Singapura was found living wild as a street cat on the island of Singapore. It is from the local word for the island of their origin, Singapura, that the breed takes its name.

It seems likely that the breed has existed in its current type for perhaps 300 years, being descended from cats arriving from all parts of the world on trading ships, and perhaps even crossed with already resident feral, or wild cats. They are one of three typical 'types' living in Singapore, the other two be akin to the Abyssinian and the Japanese bob-tail.

Singapuras lived in small colonies throughout the city, and were periodically culled by the authorities who considered them to be vermin. It was one such cull prior to a Royal visit in 1974 that would have appeared to have almost wiped out the breed, and meant that only three cats matching the description of the breed could be found and exported to the States. It is from these three cats, and a fourth found in 1980, that the entire breed has descended. Because of the fact that the breed was considered as vermin in its native country, many of the cats lived in the sewers and gutters of the city, earning themselves the nickname of 'Drainpipe Cats'.

DESCRIPTION

Overall impression of the ideal Singapura is a medium to small, compact cat with a striking face dominated by large eyes and ears. The eyes can be hazel, green or yellow. The intensely ticked (sable only) coat has a muted iridescent quality giving the impression of refined and delicate coloring. The ground color is a warm "old ivory" tending to yellow tones. Muzzle, chin, chest and stomach are the color of unbleached muslin. The preferred color effect is of a warm, glowing, lightly shaded, richly ticked cat with strongly contrasting markings.

The Singapura cat does not bear a strong resemblance any other recognized breed. This is not a long-bodied cat, nor should the torso be tubular. Males are proportionally larger than females. All Singapuras should have a lively interest in the surroundings and are, above all, outgoing, gentle cats, amenable to handling, well-balanced physically and of sound health.

Singapura cats are the smallest of all the recognized cat breeds. Females can be as small as four pounds in adulthood, males run about six pounds. Although small, they are muscular cats, almost stocky in build. They are not delicate or "miniature" cats.

….Continued

SINGAPURA (CONTINUED)

TEMPERAMENT

The Singapura loves human company, and are content to sit on their owner's knee or shoulder. They seem to prefer to be off the ground and at a height that puts them on a level, or above their owners, so will often climb onto bookshelves, kitchen units etc. anywhere that gives them a good view of the world around them. Singapuras have a lively interest in the surroundings and are, above all, outgoing, gentle cats, amenable to handling, well-balanced physically and of sound health.

BREEDERS

We currently have no Singapura breeders subscribing to this directory. For more information on breeds and breeders, please refer to Southern Alberta Calgary Cat Fanciers’ website at www.saccf.ca for more information.

RULES FOR THE CAT OF THE HOUSE

DOORS: Do not allow closed doors in any room. To get door opened, stand on hind legs and hammer with forepaws. Once door is opened, it is not necessary to use it. After you have ordered an ‘outside’ door opened, stand halfway in and out and think about several things. This is particularly important during very cold weather, rain, snow, or mosquito season. Swinging doors are to be avoided at all costs.

CHAIRS AND RUGS: If you have to throw up, get to a chair quickly. If you cannot manage in time, get to an Oriental rug. If there is no Oriental rug, shag is good. When throwing up on the carpet, make sure you back up so that it is as long as the human’s bare foot.

BATHROOMS: Always accompany guests to the bathroom. It is not necessary to do anything – just sit and stare.

HAMPERING: If one of your humans is engaged in some close activity and the other is idle, stay with the busy one. This is called ‘helping’, otherwise known as ‘hampering’. Following are the rules for ‘hampering’.

• When supervising cooking, sit just behind the left heel of the cook. You cannot be seen and thereby stand a better chance of being stepped on and then picked up and comforted. • For book readers, get in close under the chin, between eyes and book, unless you can lie across the book itself. • For knitting projects or paperwork, lie on the work in the most appropriate manner so as to obscure as much of the work or at least the most important part. Pretend to doze, but every so often reach out and slap the pencil or knitting needles. The worker may try to distract you; ignore it. • For people paying bills (monthly activity) or working on income taxes or Christmas cards (annual activity), keep in mind the aim – to hamper! First, sit on the paper being worked on. When dislodged, watch sadly from the side of the table. When activity proceeds nicely, roll around on the papers, scattering them to the best of your ability. After being removed for the second time, push pens, pencils, and erasers off the table, one at a time. • When a human is holding the newspaper in front of him/her, be sure to jump on the back of the paper. They love to jump.

WALKING: As often as possible, dart quickly and as close as possible in front of the human, especially on stairs, when they have something in their arms, in the dark, and when they first get up in the morning. This will help their coordination skills.

BEDTIME: Always sleep on the human at night so she/he cannot move around.

SPHYNX

The “E.T.” of the cat fancy: the wrinkled cat; the hairless cat; the “hot water bottle” cat! Not completely hairless, the Sphynx is covered with a light down like the skin of a peach.

HISTORY

The Sphynx has been known as the New Mexican Hairless, or Canadian Hairless; in the 1970s it was given the name Sphynx. The Canadian Sphynx originated when a male hairless kitten was born in Canada in 1966 to a black and white house cat. This hairless male was bred back to his mother, resulting in a mixed litter of hairless and furry kittens. Other hairless cats have shown up in Paris, some of them reported to be the offspring of Siamese. The Sphynx was granted championship status in the early 1980s in TICA.

DESCRIPTION

Some people are repulsed by this cat, feeling it is the ugliest they have ever seen. Others are charmed by it; it is so ugly it is beautiful. To hold a Sphynx is like holding a hot water bottle. Its temperature feels at least four degrees higher than that of other cats, though it is no different. The Sphynx is not a hairless cat; it is covered with a very short down that is almost invisible to the eye and undetectable to the touch. There may be short, tightly packed, soft hair on the points and a puff of hair on the tip of the tail, and there will be some hair on the testicles. Whiskers and eyebrows may be present but are often broken or absent. The skin is wrinkled and should have the texture of suede. At first it was hoped that the Sphynx would be the answer for people who are allergic to cats. This is not the case, as the dander on the skin can produce allergic reactions. When the Sphynx sweats, with the sparseness of hair, normal follicular secretions may accumulate in the wrinkles; because of this the cat must be bathed often or wiped clean with a washcloth. The Sphynx is hard and muscular; the medium-long body should be fine- or medium-boned but powerful, with a short, barrel-shaped chest. The front of the cat may be compared to a Boston Bull Terrier. The Sphynx should appear to be well fed but not fat; this is a delicate cat. The tail is long, whippy, tapering from body to tip (rat-tailed). The legs are long and slender, in balance with the body, but not fine boned; they are firm and feel muscular. The hind legs are slightly longer than the forelegs. The paws are oval and dainty, with long, slender toes. The head is slightly longer than it is wide, with prominent cheekbones and a definite whisker break. The profile has a distinct stop at the bridge of the nose. The very large ears are wide at the base and set upright. The large, round, lemon- shaped eyes slant to the base of the ears and are set slightly more than an eye’s width apart and tend to be set back into the face. The muzzle is short. The neck is long and slender, giving an elegant appearance to the head.

TEMPERAMENT

Characteristics of the Sphynx include infinite patience and willingness to put up with almost anything. The Sphynx appears to be at great peace with the world, at ease with its surroundings, making a devoted pat and excellent show animal. You have to admire them. Even when they are sitting down they hold their head up high, always showing refinement. The French standards describe them as “part monkey, part dog, part child and part cat”.

BREEDERS

We currently have no Sphynx breeders subscribing to this directory. For more information on breeds and breeders, please refer to Southern Alberta Calgary Cat Fanciers’ website at www.saccf.ca for more information.

TOYGER

The Toyger is a designer cat. It is designed and bred with the demands of modern apartment life as a human companion foremost in mind. Glittered, pelted, dramatic pattern appeals to both the high-tech glamour and nature-loving, wild dreams of city-caught people while the laid back, easily trained character of these cats make them a joy to live with.

HISTORY

The name 'Toyger' comes from the words Toy and Tiger.

The Toyger was founded by Judy Sugden of EEYAAS Cattery in the USA. The Toyger is the result of a cross between a striped Domestic Short Hair and a Standard Bengal Tabby. This resulted in a striped Cat which after many years of hard work resembles a 'mini Tiger'. The Toyger is a designer breed and currently still being developed. Breeder's are striving to give this stunning breed the true look of a mini tiger over the coming years. Many of the features proposed have never been seen in a domestic cat. Progress is slow but steady and it could be several years before the Toyger truly resembles the wild tiger although the founder is aiming at 2010. Judy Sugden says that with a few more years of breeding, her Toygers will look even more like the real thing, with ears that are shorter, smaller eyes, a bigger chin and a wider nose tip.

DESCRIPTION

Toyger's are of medium size with a strong and robust torso. The tail is long and muscular and set and carried low. Toyger's coats are short, thick, plush, soft and feel extremely luxurious. The ideal colouring for a Toyger is an orange/tan background with dark stripes like that of a Tiger. The stripes are actually long rosettes and should not be uniform like a mackerel pattern but more like long random individual stripes. The coat must be striped with no spotting. The ears are small and rounded, good solid bone structure and overall balance. The Toyger is an ongoing venture with each generation improving on the last to obtain the objective of a beautiful domestic cat with the look of the majestic wild Tiger. The Toyger has no tiger blood in it but does possess genes passed on from the Asian Leopard cat.

TEMPERAMENT

The Toyger has a laid back easy going temperament and makes a good companion. They are athletic and love to be around people. They are very suitable for most households and get on well with children and other pets. Toygers are intelligent and are easily trained. Many Toygers enjoy playing with water much like their wild cousins, tigers, who are strong swimmers and enjoy bathing in rivers, lakes and waterholes.

BREEDERS

We currently have no Toyger breeders subscribing to this directory. For more information on breeds and breeders, please refer to Southern Alberta Calgary Cat Fanciers’ website at www.saccf.ca for more information.

We currently have none of the following breeds subscribing to this directory. . For more information on breeds and breeders, please refer to Southern Alberta Calgary Cat Fanciers website at www.saccf.ca for a full breed description. Or contact one of the clubs members listed on site via email.

AMERICAN BOBTAIL

At first glance you are sure that you have just seen a bobcat, you slowly turn and your gaze falls upon this magnificent and untamed looking creature. It captivates you.

TEMPERAMENT

American Bobtails are a loving, kind and incredibly intelligent cats. They are noted for their dog like personalities and their devotion to their owners. They easily adapt to a busy or quiet environment. American Bobtails bond with their family, like Golden Retriever dogs, which they resemble in personality and devotion. They get along well with most dogs and have a welcome spot in their hearts for newcomers, whether they are two-legged or four-legged. Long haul truck drivers have purchased them as cabin companions because they are known to be good travelers if introduced to it at a young age. Psychotherapists have also used them in their treatment programs because they have been found to be very well-behaved and sensitive to people in distress.

AMERICAN CURL

The American Curl is different from any other breed, with its innocent look and devilish curled-back ears. It comes in both a shorthaired and semi-longhair variety.

TEMPERAMENT

American Curls are very healthy, hearty cats. They are intelligent and playful, yet gentle, very much a "people cat”, and very affectionate, liking to rub their owners chin and sit on their owners shoulders. They even like rough play and seem to truly enjoy the company of young children. They may be quiet, almost pensive in attitude, and not overly active, but remain extremely curious about their surroundings. They require very little grooming since their coat rarely mats. They can be easily trained, even to walk on a leash, or to fetch and retrieve. They retain their whimsical attitude throughout their life, retaining their playful activities well into maturity, giving them a reputation for never growing up.

AMERICAN WIREHAIR

The American Wirehair was a spontaneous mutation that changed the normal straight coat of an American Shorthair to a coat that is not only springy, dense and resilient, but also coarse and hard to the touch. Guard hairs are bent at the end, forming a hook. These cats require very little grooming, just brushing once a week to remove loose hairs.

TEMPERAMENT

Characteristics of the American Wirehair are activeness, agility and a keen interest in its surroundings. Owners describe their cats as muscular and independent. They rule the roost, taking no nonsense from other cats.

BOMBAY

The Bombay is the black panther of the cat fancy, with its patent leather coat and copper penny eyes. They should be well-muscled and deceptively heavy for their size.

TEMPERAMENT

The Bombays have excellent appetites, and are healthy cats. They have a sweet disposition, and are rather mellow. They make excellent pets.

CHARTREUX

The Chartreux is a natural French breed of great antiquity. It is known for its gray-blue colour, wooly double coat, powerful build, and mild temperament. Although it is a massive cat, it has a sweet, smiling expression and a tiny voice. Combing is only necessary once a week. It is always gray-blue in color, with gold to copper eyes. You may notice iridescence due to the silver on the tip of each hair.

TEMPERAMENT

Towards those they love, Chartreux display a passionate devotion that strangers would never guess at. They prefer to be nearby, preferably getting their jowls scratched and giving loving head-bumps to their owners! They will follow you everywhere, comfort you when you are sad or ill, and prefer to sleep with you or on top of you. Their supportive, cheerful presence can be wonderful for elderly people and people living alone.

CHAUSIE

Formerly known as the Nile Cat this magnificent creature will leave an indelible impression. This svelte cat strides with feral grace and captivates its audience with it’s tall legs and long, lean muscular body. Chausies like their Jungle Cat ancestors come in three colors brown ticked tabby, black, and silver tip. They are a large cat typically weighing 14 -20 pounds for the males. The female can weigh from 9 -18 pounds

TEMPERAMENT

Chausies are extremely intelligent, almost dog-like and highly active. If you are looking for a lazy, low-key, mellow pet - the chausie is NOT for you! Their muscular build and wild ancestry enable them to be quite athletic and fast. Chausies can be leery of strangers but are loyal and loving to their owners. They get along exceptionally well with other cats. The Chausie is the next best thing to owning a wild cat! The size, wild look and walk of the Chausie tells you this is no ordinary housecat.

CYMRIC

The Cymric (pronounced “kimric”) is the longhaired version of the Manx.

TEMPERAMENT

Once the kittens are past the endangered stage of development, they grow to be strong, healthy adults. The Cymric makes an excellent pet. They do tend to be loyal to only one person and aloof but not unkind to others. They are excellent hunters and enjoy tree climbing. They are quiet, rather reserved cats and are excellent, faithful companions especially for the person living alone.

HAVANA BROWN

The Havana, is surely a Brown Delight and an Endangered Species - the cat in the “not so plain brown wrapper” with beautiful green eyes.

TEMPERAMENT

Havana Brown cats are gentle and affectionate. They can be a bit shy to strangers but are very loyal and loving toward their owners. They are a curious breed and will investigate anything that moves or catches their eye by pawing at it. They love human companionship and are very generous with their affections in return. Havana Brown cats are very playful even once they begin to mature. They love biting paper and cardboard as well as playing tag and chasing their owners around. They are very active and energetic cats.

JAPANESE BOBTAIL

A cat with a raised paw beckons from the doorway. The cat is ceramic and the traditional Japanese symbol of good luck. They are modeled after the famous and favored bobtailed cats of Japan and come in both a shorthaired and longhaired variety. The longhair Japanese Bobtail exhibits all the same characteristics as the shorthair Bobtail and there is no undercoat. This cat exhibits very little shedding. Grooming is a light daily combing or brushing.

TEMPERAMENT

The Japanese Bobtail is a very intelligent cat and enjoys plenty of attention and play. It is active and also talkative. The Bobtail has a soft voice and it is said it will talk back when spoken to. This cat is very good with children and loves to be with humans. It is affectionate by nature and makes an ideal family pet. It is well suited to indoor life.

LAPERM

If you have often dreamt of having a cat with a curly coat, then the LaPerm is for you! It is one of the few breeds of cat with a springy, curly, fur coat and comes in both a shorthaired and longhaired variety.

TEMPERAMENT

Affectionate and intelligent, the LaPerms are very people oriented cats, sweet tempered and very fond of reaching out for people's faces. They’re extroverted and curious. The LaPerm is a wonderful companion and has a soft sweet voice.

MANX

The shorthaired Manx and the longhaired Cymric are the only tailless cats in the cat fancy world. These shy cats have a unique flared ear set. They have a rabbit-like gait due to their cobby body and the height of their hindquarters. The key word in describing the Manx is round: round head, round chest, round rump. They are polite, reserved ladies and gentlemen.

TEMPERAMENT

Once the kittens are past the endangered stage of development, they grow to be strong, healthy adults. The Manx make excellent pets. They do tend to be loyal to only one person and aloof but not unkind to others. They are excellent hunters and enjoy tree climbing. They are quiet, rather reserved cats and are excellent, faithful companions especially for the person living alone.

MUNCHKIN

The Munchkin is a naturally occurring domestic cat breed characterized by short legs. A spontaneous change in the genetic heritage of the cat has introduced a gene similar to that seen in the Basset Hound, Corgi and Dachshund, which the Munchkin closely resembles.

TEMPERAMENT

Although the Munchkin is amusing to watch and the body resembles a ferret more than a cat, the personality is all cat. Several of the Munchkins have shown “Magpie” tendencies, loving to hide caches of small objects such as hair bows and pens under furniture for future play. They readily accept a harness and leash and seem to enjoy taking their owners for walks. The Munchkin is very social and enjoys company. They get along well with other cats, dogs and people. Despite the short legs, the Munchkin is not shortchanged in either personality or intelligence.

NEBELUNG

The Nebelung is a distinctively elegant cat whose name in German means “creature of the mist”. Its coat is shining and soft which gives a luminous misty effect around the body.

TEMPERAMENT

The Nebelung is highly intelligent, gentle and loving to its owners and family members, but may shy with strangers, especially young children. A kitten may take time to adjust to its new home. If allowed to make its own advances, it should become a devoted companion. Many Nebelungs are lap sitters and love to be petted. Often they follow their owners form room to room, if allowed, they enjoy sleeping on their owner’s bed.

PIXIEBOB

The Cat of Legend!

TEMPERAMENT

The Pixiebob is intelligent, inquisitive, is easily trained and has a kind and gentle nature. It is a busy cat yet non-destructive so they make perfect indoor pets. They have an unusually strong bond with their family (especially the females) which makes them excellent companions for children and adults of all ages. They are also very quiet yet prone to expressing themselves with a chirp or chitter when happy and they socialize well with other animals.

RUSSIAN BLUE

It’s been said of the Russian Blue cats that they look as if they are smiling and the reason for that smile is known only to them.

TEMPERAMENT

Those attracted by the physical beauty of the Russian Blue find the disposition of these unassuming cats equally appealing. Russian Blues are quiet, clean cats who are playful and loving companions. Despite their shy nature, Russians are devoted and quite

affectionate towards their loved ones. They are very intelligent and have been reported to open doors and teach their owners to fetch. Sensitive to the mood of the house, Russians will ‘clown' to quiet a crying baby or sit patting your face to chase away the blues. They get along well with children and other pets.

SELKIRK REX

One of the newest recognized breeds, the Selkirk Rex has a curly coat and whiskers that are “barely there”. It also comes in both a shorthaired and longhaired variety. The Selkirk Rex is being developed as a large, heavy boned cat rather like the British Shorthair in conformation. The curl is plush and loosely curled, showing up more dramatically on the longhair. Even the shorthair, however, shows the curls, especially on the tummy and around the neck.

TEMPERAMENT

Selkirks are incredibly patient, loving and tolerant. They are have a sweet and endearing personality and make wonderful, affectionate pets. They can be a welcome addition to a home where proper behavior and good manners are needed upon arrival.

SNOWSHOE

Affectionate and people-oriented, the Snowshoe is an amiable and loving friend and companion. The Snowshoe is a shorthaired cat with a pointed coat pattern, white markings on the feet (for which the breed is named), and an inverted white "V" on the face.

TEMPERAMENT

Snowshoes tend to be active and friendly cats that want to be with you at all times and generally prefer a warm lap to the best cat bed. They can be 'talkers', with soft, melodic voices. They are sometimes shy with strangers and don't like changes well but are extremely devoted to family members including other family pets. They are highly intelligent and can easily be taught games. If you like interactive cats, the Snowshoe may be the cat for you.

SOMALI

The Somali is the “red fox” of cats. It displays the same lively intelligent interest in its surrounding as its shorthair cousin, the Abyssinian. Fully coated, brilliantly colored, having lynx ear tipping and a long bushy tail, it is a beautiful cat to behold.

TEMPERAMENT

The Somali should be feral in appearance, yet they are extremely gentle and affectionate by nature. They make excellent companions and are quiet, not overly “talkative” cats, even when in season. These cats are very inquisitive; nothing is too small to escape the adventure of investigation. They show a lively interest in all their surroundings and love to climb, yet very seldom disturb or break things, even when they weave between objects like a skier on a slalom course. Their loose skin helps them get in and out of tight places or human hands with ease. They do not like to be caged and will pace back and forth, much like a wild animal. These are wonderful cats who seem able to “read” the needs of their favorite person.

TONKINESE

The Tonkinese is the aqua-eyes beauty of the cat fancy, a blending of Siamese and Burmese. The semi-foreign body, intermediate between the long, svelte Siamese and the cobby, muscular Burmese, makes a strong muscular cat of surprising weight for its size. The medium-short coat is soft, fine and silky, close-lying with a lustrous sheen, requiring little grooming.

TEMPERAMENT

The Tonkinese make healthy, beautiful, charming pets and show cats. They are quite active and love to run and jump, enjoying plenty of exercise. They are gregarious, outgoing and affectionate. The aqua eye coloring, the two-toned body with its soft, gently flowing contours, the blending of the Burmese and Siamese coloring, boning and personalities make the Tonkinese a very beautiful and endearing cat.

TURKISH ANGORA

An ancient breed originally from Angora (Ankara) in Turkey, the Turkish Angora has become a very rare breed. If two words could describe this beautiful longhaired cat it would be flowing elegance.

TEMPERAMENT

The Turkish Angoras are elegant, truly the aristocrats of the semi-longs; regal, graceful and beautiful. They are usually gentle cats, easy to get along with and make colorful, playful pets. The Turkish Angora is not just a pretty face; the cat is athletic and intelligent, sociable and affectionate.

TURKISH VAN

“The Swimming Cat”.

DESCRIPTION

The Turkish Van is a semi-longhaired cat distinguished by its unusual pattern: the cat is white except for a colored tail and color on the head. (This is called the "Van" pattern, and is seen in other breeds as well).

The Turkish Van takes three to five years to reach full maturity and is a large and agile cat of substantial strength. They are very intelligence as well as curious and make very rewarding companions in the right home. The breed is a healthy one and the unique coat does not lend itself to matting, so they require little grooming.

TEMPERAMENT

The Turkish Van is a loyal, loving and very intelligent cat. Its temperament depends greatly on its upbringing, the amount of human contact and handling it receives as a kitten, and the temperament of the mother herself. They are very affectionate, giving head butts and love bites, but to the uninitiated this could be slightly alarming, but when you get to know your cat you will begin to understand. They tend to bond strongly to one or two people in a family. They are social and remain active well into old age. They are great climbers, so don't be surprised to find them sitting on top of doors, kitchen units or wardrobes, and some wouldn't think twice about climbing your curtains and sitting on the curtain rail. Where water is concerned, some are not very keen at all, whereas others may love dripping taps, especially drinking from them, then flicking the water with their paws, or dropping toys into their water bowl. It has been known for Turks to swim in the bath, swimming pool or even the sea. So be warned they may come and join in your daily shower. They may also become curious about toilets, so don't leave the lid up!

We at Pisces Pet Emporium wish the Southern Alberta Calgary Cat Fanciers a successful Championship and Household Pet Cat Show! PET EMPORIUM

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1975 Store Hours Calgary’s Largest Independently MON - FRI 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Owned Pet Superstore SAT 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. SUN 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Visit our 30,000 sq. ft. store where our professional & helpful staff are dedicated to helping you & your pet with all of your needs. ALL PETS WELCOME • Puppies & Kittens • Get to know Your Pet in one of our Get Acquainted Rooms • Huge Selection of Competitively Priced Dog & Cat Food • Large Selection of Dog & Cat Supplies • Exotic Birds (from Finches to Parrots) • Reptiles (Snakes, Lizards, Arachnids) & Accessories • Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Hamsters & Ferrets • Largest Self-Serve Bulk Food for all Pets • Excellent Selection of Reference Books • Over 500 Fully Stocked Tanks • Large Selection of Tropical Fish (Fresh & Salt Water) • North America’s Largest Selection of Aquatic Plants • Fish Food ~ Live or Frozen • Bulk Fish Food • Standard & Custom-Built Tanks • Large Selection of Ponds, Supplies & Live Pond Plants • Huge Parts & Service Department for most Pet Equipment 403 - 274 - 3314 4921 Skyline Way NE McKnight Blvd. & Deerfoot website: www.piscespets.com Pisces is looking for Kittens! We are looking for home raised kittens that are healthy, pet quality, and born from mature fully vaccinated females. Call Kelsey at Pisces (403) 274-3314 for more information, and how to become a local family breeder.

The International Cat Association and Southern Alberta Calgary Cat Fanciers Are proud to support our Junior Achievers. Join us in celebrating our up and coming young exhibitors.

Related Link on www.saccf.ca and our JA Committee and Regional Liaisons Watch for future events in conjunction with our Calgary Shows.

Thanks for coming to the show! We hope you enjoyed it, and we look forward to seeing you again. Your support is greatly appreciated. Have a safe trip home and don’t drive any faster than your Angel can fly!!