The oldest cat breeds in the world

Natural cat breeds according to the FCA

As mentioned by a scientific study that has compared the genomic analyzes of more than 1000 cats belonging to 22 breeds, the FCA ( Cat Fanciers Association ) highlights 16 natural breeds among the 41 feline races that it recognizes today.The natural races are those that were born spontaneously from regional varieties ( landraces ) and were domesticated by different ancient civilizations [2].

These natural felines show a more stable genetic code than breeds created from controlled crossings between different specimens of other breeds.This is usually expressed through a greater physical resistance and in a lower genetic predisposition to develop numerous degenerative pathologies.Subsequently, these varieties were recognized as races by the corresponding federations or organizations (the FCA, for example).standard Aesthetic from selective crossings between specimens.

Through selective breeding, some races achieved the objectives established by the standards, earning the classification of established races in some societies felines.It is the example of the Persian cat, a very old cat that is no longer considered as natural, but as established.

The oldest feline races in the world

In addition to the sources we have already mentioned, we also consult an excellent research carried out by researchers from different universities in the United States [3], which analyzes the genome of different races natural, established, hybrid and mutations recognized by the FCA and the ICT ( The International Cat Association ) and offers us novel data on their origins, including a careful estimate of their birth years., we list below the oldest cat breeds in the world.Do not miss them!

1.Egyptian Maau

For many experts, the Egyptian mau could be considered the oldest breed of cat in the world .It is estimated that his ancestors have been retracted for the first time more of 4000 years , in Ancient Egypt.The race would have begun to be perfected by the Egyptians themselves who were responsible for selecting the best specimens to create the optimal representation for the venerated feline figure.

A Despite its antiquity, the breed was introduced in Europe during the decade of 50 at the initiative of Princess Natalia Troubetzkoi.Quickly, she was welcomed as a beloved pet for her remarkable elegance and beauty, in addition to possessing a very special character.

2.Japanese boottail

The Japanese bobtail draws attention for its very short tail, similar to that of a rabbit, which is the result of a recessive gene present in this breed.It is estimated that its ancestors existed during the 5th century .However, these mininos were introduced in Japan (country to which the creation of the breed is attributed) 1000 years ago.For many years, the bobtail has been the iconic street cat of Japan and, until today , is an important character in local folklore.

3.Persian cat

These beautiful furry are born in the ancient Persia , where the territory of Iran is today.There is no scientific agreement on when the first Persian cats were born, but we know that the first duly registered copy was imported from the city of Khorasan (Persia) to Italy at early 1600s .

However, the aesthetic pattern of the breed we know today has been influenced by the Turkish Angora and established in the 1800s, after its introduction into English society.Quickly, due to its remarkable beauty and affectionate character, it became number 1 of the most popular feline races in the world.

4.Turkish Angora

The Turkish Angora is a natural breed that originates in the Ankara region, in the center of Turkey , where it is considered a national treasure.It is estimated that this breed was introduced in Europe by the Vikings, probably during the 10th century .However, it begins to be officially registered in some French writings of the 16th century.It should be noted that for many years the term "angora" was used to refer to many long-haired feline breeds.

While the breed may have different colors, copies of Angora most valued are those of totally white fur and one eye of each color (heterochromia).These felines are more reserved, prefer to live with one or two people and greatly value their tranquility.Therefore, they are not usually indicated for large families or with young children.

5.Van turkish

The Turkish van is an autochthonous breed not only from the regions near Lake Van, in Turkey , but also from central and southwest Asia and southwestern Russia.they have an important cultural value for Turkish, Armenian and Kurdish citizens, being considered a controversial national symbol.

The breed has been incorporated in England in the 50s, but it is estimated that its lineage is as old as that of the Angora , that is why the Turkish van is also considered one of the oldest cat breeds in the world.In relation to this, it is important to highlight that Angora cats and cats go are Different breeds with different genetic lineages, although they have generated a lot of confusion because of their aesthetic similarities.

For those who consider adopting a Turkish van as a pet, it is important to highlight that it is a dominant pussycat that needs to be socialized from puppy (preferably in its first 8 weeks s) to live peacefully with other animals.

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6.Chartreux

The chartreux, also called "cartujo", is one of the oldest cat breeds in the world.While its creation has been attributed to France, where it begins to be portrayed in the decade of 30, it estimates that these cats were introduced to Europe during the crusades .Currently, they are estimated to be originating from the border between Iran and Turkey.

A curiosity about these cats is that they have a long childhood, needing more than 1 year to mature and reach adulthood.In addition, we must highlight its beautiful orange eyes and its bluish-colored fur, something similar to Turkish blue.

7 Norwegian Forest

This natural breed is one of the oldest cat breeds in the world because descends directly from the Nordic wild cats that accompanied the Vikings in their boats to control the proliferation of rats.It is a cat with long hair, large and robust body (it can weigh between 7 and 9 kg), with a very lively and affectionate temperament.Because of its large size and its high energy, they adapt better to Open spaces and love to enjoy outdoor activities.

8.Korat

The korat, popularly known as "the lucky cat", is a natural breed native to Thailand, whose first records date back to the year 1350 .only for its beautiful blue color of its fur and its bright green eyes, but also for being one of the smallest pussies in the world.An adult korat usually weighs nothing more than 2 or 4 kilos.

Despite of being also among the oldest cat breeds in the world, the korat has regained some popularity in the western countries in the last decades.In fact, its introduction in the Americas was in the 60s.

9.Siames

Of course, the popular cat breeds of the world could not be missing from this list of the oldest cat breeds in the world.Currently, we can talk about modern and traditional siames (or thai ).There is still no agreement on the origins of the ancient Siamese, but it is estimated that Thai cats already lived in the fourteenth century, in their place of origin, the Kingdom of Siam (now Thailand).It arrived in the European continent in the 19th century, in England, where I quickly gained space in the exhibitions of the London Cristal Palace.However, the breed was recognized in the decade of the 50s and the first Clubs were founded in the 80s.

Siamese people are recognized for their very affectionate and extremely loyal temperament, being able to create a unique relationship with their tutors.In addition, their short fur is not only beautiful, but also very practical to keep, clean and healthy.And his blue and bright eyes are simply irresistible...

10 Abyssinian cat

The Abyssinian cat is originally from the African continent, where today we find Ethiopia (formerly called Abyssinia).Its first specimens arrived in Europe in mid-1868 , but the breed has been recognized by the FCA in the twentieth century.Its appearance closely resembles Felis libica , the wild ancestor of domestic cats.

11.Russian blue cat

Russian blue, also known as " arcangel cat " in its home country (Russia, of course), is a very old breed, but its first known records were made after its introduction in the United Kingdom, in 1860 .According to some Russian legends, it is said that this feline has been kept secret for centuries because it is considered an exclusive pet, which could only accompany the tsars.

12.Manx

The cat manes or manx is one of the most peculiar and striking natural breeds, since it has no tail due to a natural genetic mutation that has altered the original formation of its spine.It is a really beautiful pussycat, with a round and robust body, and owner of a sociable and intelligent character that allows him to establish very special links with his relatives and enjoy the company of other pets.

Yes Well, the breed has been formalized and officially registered on the British island of Man, during the 17th century , its origin is much older and surrounded by incredible myths.One of the most popular legends about its origin affirms that these mininos were already alive when the prophet Noe built his ark.According to the myth, the Manx cat was enjoying a nap when Noe summoned all the species to get on the ark.When he perceived that there were no other animals left, the Manx cat ran for not to miss the trip.Upon reaching the ark, Noe was already closing the door and, to get in, the pussy made a spectacular jump.However, his agility was not enough and, by accident, the ark door cut its tail.In this way, Manx managed to save himself, but since then, the absence of a tail is a hallmark of its origins.

13.Maine coon

The Maine Coon is one of the most recognized and beloved giant cat breeds in the world.An adult male of this breed can reach 70 centimeters long, with an average body weight of 10 kilos.Despite their imposing size and robustness, these felines are very affectionate and sociable .Among the curiosities about this breed, we can mention that Maine coons love to play with water.In addition, they have the incredible ability to meow in different tones, practically singing melodies to communicate with their tutors.

The origin of this breed is attributed to the United States, where they began to register in mid 1860 .However, their history also holds various mortgages and speculations, some more credible, others more fanciful.According to some theories, these mininos gained a lot of popularity in Europe before reaching American soil.Other versions say that the ancestors of these Feline giants could have been introduced in Europe by the Vikings and the race would be the result of various natural crossings between these large mininos that accompanied sailors with some wildcats.

14.Siberian cat

The Siberian is also classified as a natural breed by the FCA.As the name implies, these minines are native to the eastern region of Russia, more specifically from the territory of Siberia.Their origins still have many mysteries , but it is known that these mininos have been registered since the times in which the czars ruled the territories today belonging to Russia and Ukraine.In addition to making company, these ancient cats played a crucial role for rodent control., these pussies also begin to retract in children's stories and gain special popularity after appearing in Harrison Wier's "Our cats" book, which was published in 1889.

Siberians retain a somewhat wild appearance , which is very attractive.Also, they are very strong and resistant, with a very loyal and caring character.Despite its abundant fur, the Siberian is among the best races for allergic os, since they produce a very small amount of the FelD1 protein.However, before adopting a miner of this ancient breed, remember that they need special attention with the maintenance of their beautiful fur.

15.Singapore

Singapore cats are small (they usually weigh no more than 3 or 4 kilos), but they have a strong and muscular body; they are so tiny, that it is considered the smallest cat breed in the world .Its head has a rounded shape, with almond eyes and a small "M" on its forehead.In Singapore, its country of origin , you can still find specimens living in a semi-wild state, alternating their habits between the city and the jungles.

A curiosity is that these felines are so affectionate that, in some countries, they are known as "velcro cat "Because of the very special bond that he builds with his tutors, following them everywhere and enjoying every moment with them.

Regarding their origins, we also find many hypotheses and few precise data, which is completely understandable considering that these mininos originated naturally between the streets of Singapore , where they received no special attention from the natives.It is known that the first specimens landed in the United States during the decade of the 70 and, from there, the breed regained a lot of popularity.However, it is estimated that their ancestors roamed their home country since ancient times, being popularly known as "sewer cats".

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References

Genetics and animal domestication: new windows on an elusive process. In: J.Zool.269, 261-271, 2006. The Ascent of Cat Breeds: Genetic Evaluations of Breeds and Worldwide. In: Genomics.Jan; 91 (1): 12-21, 2008. " Patterns of molecular genetic variation among cat breeds " .In: Genomics, vol.91 (1), p.1-11, 2008.