Cousin of the Siamese cat, the Colorpoint Shorthair Cat is much less known but not for this reason to be neglected. If we observe it, we will be able to surprise us with exceptional shades of the hair, short, as the name suggests. This breed, not very common in our parts, is considered hybrid, due to the development of crosses with the progenitor. The name colorpoint is related to its coloring which is certainly what makes it special. As we will see, sixteen “points” of color have been identified, different from those of the Siamese. If we don’t want to be superficial, however, let’s find out together why this cousin of the Siamese must be considered an independent breed.
Colorpoint Shorthair cat: characteristics
Of medium size and graceful and elegant physical structure, the Colorpoint Shorthair Cat is a pet full of grace that moves quickly and agile. Despite being thin, he has nice muscles and has nothing to envy to other apparently more placed cats. The males are slightly larger than the females but in both we can find colors that have nothing to do with those of the Siamese cousins and that make the breed a real show, even at dedicated cat shows.
The body has a slightly tubular shape and the head, in continuity, is elongated and wedge-shaped. The profile is harmonious and noble, subtle and continuous, up to the tip of the nose. The eyes stand out thanks to their blue color which is enhanced by the special almond shape, they cannot be of other colors. The muzzle is wedge-shaped, the nose forms a triangle with the ears, and the whiskers are smooth and slightly curved back. The ears are decidedly very large, they start with a very wide attachment, then end in a point: the Colorpoint Shorthair cat always seems ready to listen to the speeches that are made near him, constantly alert.
The hair deserves a closer look. It is short and fine but never rough: it is a pleasure to caress it. The peculiarity is all in the color that does not copy that of the Siamese. It changes but in a truly original way, impossible to get confused. In our case we find colors that go from apricot to bright red, from coral pink to pale pink, for example in the case of the so-called “red point” variety. If we pass to the “cream point” instead, we find other colors such as suede, shades of cream, even pink. In the standard of the breed we find other colors than those just described, of the two basic ranges. They are rarer but there are, and they go from chocolates to blues to lilacs.
Colorpoint Shorthair cat: origins
We are in England to look for the origins of this breed which is recognized many years after its birth, which took place in the first years of the second post-war period. The first specimens we see appear have reddish hues and are the protagonists of several experiments. The first hybridizations with the American shorthair cat and later with the Siamese with the red gene, produced the colors of this breed which was then stabilized and recognized.
Since these are animals with very different coats from those of the Siamese cat, the breeders adopted a new name which was then kept at the time of official registration in 1964. In England the cat immediately became famous and variants were therefore created.
Colorpoint Shorthair cat: character
Affectionate and lovable, this cat can be kept in an apartment and gets along well with both adults and children. The important thing is not to suffocate him and leave him his independence because he cares a lot. He is a sweet animal but that demands attention, if we don’t give it to him, he asks for it in a loud voice with meows that certainly cannot be ignored. He is agile and not shy at all, so he plays and does stunts even at home and is happy if you play a little with him.
Colorpoint Shorthair cat: care
The hair with such original colors must be kept well, with diligence and love. It is therefore necessary to comb this cat and give it frequent baths so that the luster of the coat is not lost. The hair must dry with the hot air but in the wind, then the rubber brush must be passed to remove the hair that loses, in this way the hair remains soft for a long time. Let’s pass it with a chamois cloth if we really want a show cat. All this must be done at least a couple of times a month.
Always for the hair but also for the general health of the animal it is good that the diet is balanced but rich and varied. Muscle tone will also benefit and the cat will be more long-lived and lively. We try to dedicate an area for him to play, even if at home, so that he can give vent to his energy and stay fit and in a good mood.
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