Lop-eared cats and cats do not leave indifferent either adults or children, as the unusual shape of the ears gives them a special attractive look. But there is still confusion between the fold cat breeds, as experts claim that there is only a Scottish species, which is universally recognized. And the British fold breed of cats does not exist at all. Therefore, it is worthwhile to figure out whether this is true or not. And if it does exist, then what features does it have.
Features of breed breeding
The British fold breed exists, although it remains unrecognized by official nurseries. This is due to the fact that it was banned from the rules of international feline communities.
This variety was obtained as a result of independent crossbreeding by animal owners. It was based on representatives of the Scottish fold and British Shorthair. As a result, the resulting offspring received in combination an unusual color and fold shape of the ears. Therefore, among cat lovers, the breed became known as the British fold.
Despite the lack of documents confirming the pedigree, representatives of this species of cats are very popular. But you can buy a cat or cat of this type only from private owners.
In the photo above - a British lop-eared cat, which still remains not officially recognized.
Appearance description
Despite the high similarity with the Scottish fold cats, the British still have differences. Representatives of the unrecognized breed are distinguished by a harmonious rounded shape of the muzzle, they are also characterized by a large head size with ears pressed to it. The eyes are expressive, slightly surprised. This feature is manifested due to the unusual structure of the skull.
According to the classic description of British fold cats, animals are large in size. At the same time, they are characterized by muscular short paws and a strong chest. The weight of an adult animal reaches 8 kg. But if the pet is neutered and leads a measured lifestyle, then the indicator can grow rapidly, which negatively affects its health.
The coat of representatives of this species is thick and short. The nose is medium sized, wide. The eyes are large, set far apart. Mostly they have an orange hue, but there are representatives with blue and green eyes. The chin is strong, wide.
According to the description, the British fold cat is characterized by a thick tail rounded at the end. The combination of a rounded body with short legs gives the impression of a clubfoot. But this is a feature of this breed.
In the photo - a British fold cat. The difference between the breed is in the stocky body structure.
Varieties of color
The classic color of a British fold cat is a plain blue, gray, and purple.
But there are representatives with the following coat colors:
- white;
- ginger;
- silver;
- tabby
- bicolor;
- tortoiseshell;
- black.
British fold cat breed. Character
By nature, representatives of the British fold breed differ from their ancestors. In this case, behavioral differences are also present between cats and cats. But you should not focus on this when buying a pet, since its character and behavior will largely depend on the upbringing and attitude of the owner.
The cat of this breed is characterized by independent disposition and waywardness. Very attached to his master and members of his family, but at the same time kept a little apart. He doesn’t like to be picked up and imposed on any game. He remembers the insult and, when the opportunity arises, try to teach the offender a lesson.
According to the description of the breed, the character of a British fold cat is more gentle and affectionate, so she prefers to be in the spotlight. Whenever possible, it is located closer to the owner and takes part in calm measured games with pleasure.
All representatives of the British fold breed are inherent in English pretentiousness. This is expressed in their special grace and narcissism. But this trait is weakly manifested if the cat is not spoiled and properly raised.
By their nature, British fold cats are distinguished by their patience and restraint. Therefore, they prefer not to enter into open conflict with other animals. In the event of a conflict, they decide to retire and find a secluded place where their peace will not be disturbed.
Representatives of an unrecognized breed often show a strong sense of jealousy. A provoking factor may be another pet, a child, or a new family friend. And sometimes jealousy reaches a critical point. As a result of this, the cat refuses to eat, critically loses weight, licks himself until bald patches appear, and becomes apathetic to everything.
To correct the situation, you need the love and attention of the owner. Only by returning the cat’s location and trust will the pet’s condition improve.
Behavior features
British fold cats are distinguished by their intelligence and calm disposition. To accustom her to a scratching post and a tray will not be any difficulties. Representatives of this species easily accept the rules of living at home in which they fall.
According to reviews, the nature of British fold cats is measured and calm, so even kittens will not jump on cabinets and hang on curtains.
Lop-eared Britons prefer a society of elderly people and children. In this environment, they allow themselves to relax and enjoy life. In addition, they calmly endure coexistence in the same house with the dog.
Cats of this breed can stand on their hind legs for a long time. Moreover, this habit is due to their physical structure. Thanks to this stance, the animal kneads the spine.
Also, the British fold breed is characterized by a fear of heights, which justifies the lack of desire of representatives of this species to jump from cabinets and windows. This feature is due to the specifics of the vestibular apparatus.
Development and mating
The offspring is distinguished by the species qualities of their parents. Kittens have the same short strong legs, a large head and a strong chest. The coat is dense and short.
Kittens grow unevenly: paws first grow, then the body and then the head. But this is the norm, so there is no cause for concern.
Mating of cats under the age of 1 year is not carried out, as the British lop-eared breed is characterized by a late developmental period. Ignoring the length of the waiting period until the first mating can have a deplorable effect on the health of offspring and delivery. After the second birth, the formation of the cat completely ends. The duration of estrus is individual for each animal.
For the first time, a cat of this breed is recommended at the age of three. Earlier mating results in a loss of “male strength” and infertility. The final formation of the cat occurs at the age of 6 years.
Delivery in cats of an unrecognized breed is normal. At the same time, cats manifest themselves as clean, caring and attentive mothers.
Hygiene and Care
Keeping a British lop-eared short-haired cat does not cause any particular difficulties.
Basic recommendations for care and hygiene:
- Special attention should be paid to ear cleaning. This is due to their unusual structure, which leads to the accumulation of sulfur, dirt and dust in the auricle. Checking the cleanliness of the ears is recommended once a week. In this case, it is necessary to clean with a cotton swab dipped in special hygienic liquid for cats. If, as a result of cleaning, an unpleasant smell from the ears is felt, and the sulfur is dark in color, then you need to contact a veterinarian, as this is most often a symptom of a pet's disease.
- It is recommended to comb a cat 1 time in 7 days. To do this, use a special brush that does not cause irritation in the pet. You can not forget about this procedure, as this can lead to clogging of the stomach with lumps of wool when licking. Lop-eared British love combing against wool, which is a kind of massage for them.
- Eye care does not require special skills. It is enough in the morning to wipe the corners of the eyes with a clean cloth dipped in boiled water. But in the presence of purulent discharge, you should visit a veterinarian.
- It is recommended to cut the claws of representatives of this breed 1 time in 20 days. To do this, use special tools: claw cutter and claw point. At the same time, you need to cut it no more than 2 mm. It is forbidden to use ordinary scissors for the procedure, as this can provoke the appearance of injuries and damage to nerve endings. Before you cut the claw, you should carefully look at it in the light. In this case, it will be clearly visible where the blood vessel is located so as not to hurt it.
- Bathing cats should be carried out rarely, not more than 1 time every six months. But if the pet is very dirty or has got fleas, then the water procedure should be carried out as necessary. In this case, the water temperature should be within 40 degrees. For washing, it is recommended to use special cat shampoos. After the water procedure, the cat should be wrapped with a dry towel and protected from drafts. It is worth remembering that cats are not afraid to swim, but do not like the moment of immersion in water. Therefore, to instill a love of bathing necessary from an early age, and then this procedure will not cause special difficulties.
Power Features
You can feed British lop-eared both natural and dry food. But at the same time, it should be balanced and contain all the useful vitamins and minerals.
When using natural products, you need to make a diet for your pet:
- The basis of nutrition is lean meat. Freshly used beef liver, and boiled - fish and poultry without skin and bones. The British also love to feast on boiled eggs.
- Cottage cheese and kefir should also be included in the diet. Dairy products with a high percentage of fat content (sour cream, cream) should be given no more than 1 time in 2 weeks. Ignoring this rule leads to liver dysfunction.
- Vegetables should be preferred zucchini, cabbage, carrots and cucumbers.
- From cereals it is better to choose rice, millet oats. It is recommended to cook porridge with milk or meat broth. When serving, you can add a little meat.
When using dry food, it is not necessary to additionally feed the animal with other products. Dry nutritional mixture contains the whole complex of necessary vitamins and minerals, and in an accessible form and the correct ratio.
It is recommended to feed the cat no more than 3 times a day, giving out food in small portions. Fresh drinking water should be in the drinker constantly, while it must be changed regularly. Bowls for food and drink should be chosen wide so that the pet does not get dirty during meals.
Seasonal molt
Shedding of the British lop-eared breed occurs twice a year: in spring and autumn. Its duration is 1 month, but this process can be delayed with temperature changes.
To accelerate it and reduce discomfort, you should adhere to the following rules:
- Maintain stability in the temperature regime in the room.
- Protect your pet from stressful situations.
- Regularly bathe the animal during this period using shampoos for hair care.
- Carefully comb out the hair daily with a massage comb.
- Provide a complete and balanced diet.
Often, the owners of this breed are concerned about the molt winter pets. This process can be associated with various provoking factors:
- moving to a new home, which causes stress in the cat;
- childbirth, which takes a lot of strength and energy from the animal;
- allergy to dry food;
- hormonal failure during kitten feeding;
- the presence of concomitant diseases;
- malnutrition.
How many live?
The longevity of fold British is 12 years. But if from 10 years regularly visit a veterinarian at least 2 times a month, then this figure can be significantly increased.
British fold cat: virtues of character, reviews
According to reviews, this breed is especially popular. This is due not only to its unusual appearance, but also to other virtues.
The main advantages that animal owners highlight:
- friendliness;
- independence;
- non-intrusiveness;
- easily tolerates loneliness;
- are smart;
- do not demand difficult leaving.
The disadvantages of the breed include excessive shyness and a tendency to be overweight.
Based on this, it can be said that, not only due to their appearance, but also to their character, British fold cats stand out significantly from the rest of the breeds. And if you want to have a smart, obedient and sedate pet, then this is just about them. However, these qualities can only be instilled by proper education.