What breeds of cats are not recognized? - briefly
Several cat breeds, such as the American Polydactyl, Highlander, and Toyger, are not universally recognized by major feline registries like CFA or TICA. These breeds often lack the established standards or historical documentation required for official recognition.
What breeds of cats are not recognized? - in detail
Cat breeds that are not recognized by major feline registries such as The International Cat Association (TICA), the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), or the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe) often fall into several categories. These may include experimental breeds, regional or landrace varieties, or hybrids that do not meet the strict standards for recognition. For instance, certain hybrid cats, like the Bengal-Savannah mix, are not recognized due to their unpredictable traits or lack of established breed standards. Similarly, some naturally occurring breeds, such as the Korean Jindo cat or the Khao Manee, may not be recognized by all registries due to limited documentation or insufficient breeding programs. Additionally, breeds that are considered too similar to existing recognized breeds, like the European Shorthair compared to the British Shorthair, may also lack formal recognition. Experimental breeds, such as the Serengeti or the California Spangled, often face challenges in gaining recognition due to their novelty and the time required to establish consistent traits. Furthermore, some breeds may be excluded due to ethical concerns, such as those involving extreme physical traits that could compromise the cat’s health. The process of recognition typically involves rigorous evaluation of breed standards, genetic stability, and population size, which can take years or even decades. As a result, many breeds remain unrecognized, existing primarily as niche or regional varieties. It is important to note that the lack of recognition does not diminish the value or uniqueness of these cats but rather reflects the stringent criteria set by feline organizations to ensure the health, consistency, and preservation of recognized breeds.