How to Tell the Breed of a Cat

Often multiple bloodlines create problems with the right breed identification of an animal. Generally, cat owners who have adopted a stray, or owners who are unsure about the exact blood strain of their new kitty are at sea when it comes to determining their cat's breed. Proper breed identification is also necessary when you want to commercialize your cat-rearing practice or sell kittens. A few major tip off are in the form of certain conspicuous traits or visible markings that are particularly noticed in certain breeds. Dig up more information on how to identify or determine the breed of a cat.




How to Tell the Breed of a Cat

Weight variations in breed are strong determinants for their identification. So, record the weight of your kitty during birth and also when he grows into an adult cat. Take into consideration the gender of the animal while making calculations.

Next, take a note of the average height of the animal till the withers. Also measure the entire body length. The average height and weight of cats are also breed specific. Keep in mind that there are certain variations between the males and females of the same breed.

Next, feel the fur of your cat. Is it single or double layered? Certain breeds of cats have close lying single coats that are waxy and water resistant. While others may have a very thick, furry and protective coat with distinctive layers (double layered).

You can also measure the fur of the animal to distinguish the breed. The furs can be long (DLH- Domestic Long Hair)), medium (DMH- Domestic Medium Length Hair) or short (DSH- Domestic Short Hair). However, some breeds have both the long-haired and the short-haired versions.

Now carefully note the various markings, patterns and colors in the body of your cat. Determine if it is a tabby (marked with stripes, whorls and spots), calico (solid blocks of red, black and white), tortoiseshell (interweaving of red, black and white) or is plain solid colored.

Then, carefully note the shape and color of your cat's eyes. Normally, the outline of the eyes and the eye color/ various ranges of eye colors are specific to certain breeds. For e.g. Siamese have medium and almond-shaped eyes that slightly slant towards the nose. The eye color may range from ice to deep cobalt blue.

If you still fail to make out the breed of your cat, it is recommended that you consult a veterinarian. He might help in determining the exact species of the animal.