What classes are there for cats? - briefly
Cats can be categorized into several distinct classes based on their breed and physical characteristics. These classes include domestic shorthair, domestic longhair, Siamese, Persian, and Maine Coon, among others. Each class has its unique features, such as coat length, color patterns, and body type.
What classes are there for cats? - in detail
When discussing the classification of cats, it is essential to consider both their biological and breed-specific categories.
Biologically, cats belong to the order Carnivora and the family Felidae. Within this family, they are further divided into two subfamilies: Pantherinae, which includes species like lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars; and Felinae, which encompasses smaller wild cats such as ocelots, caracals, and the domestic cat. The domestic cat (Felis catus) is one of the most widely recognized and beloved species within this subfamily.
In terms of breed classification, the domestic cat is categorized into several groups based on physical characteristics and historical backgrounds. One of the primary classifications is based on coat length:
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Short-haired cats: These are the most common type of domestic cats, known for their sleek and shiny coats. Examples include the British Shorthair, Exotic Shorthair, and the American Shorthair.
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Long-haired cats: Cats in this category have luxurious, soft coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting. Notable breeds include the Maine Coon, Norwegian Forest Cat, and the Ragdoll.
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Wire-haired cats: These cats have a unique double coat consisting of an outer layer of wiry hair and a softer undercoat. The most well-known wire-haired breed is the Scottish Fold.
Another classification criterion is based on body type:
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Cobby cats: These cats are characterized by their stocky, compact bodies with short legs and a broad chest. Examples include the British Shorthair and the Exotic Shorthair.
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Semi-foreign cats: This group includes cats with a more slender body type and longer legs than cobby cats. Notable breeds in this category are the Oriental Shorthair and the Siamese.
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Oriental cats: These cats have a very slim and elegant body, often accompanied by large ears and almond-shaped eyes. The Siamese and the Oriental Shorthair are classic examples of oriental breeds.
In addition to these classifications, there are also categories based on specific traits or historical backgrounds:
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Colorpoint cats: These cats have a distinctive color pattern where the ears, tail, and paws (points) are darker than the body. The Siamese is a well-known example of a colorpoint cat.
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Polydactyl cats: Also known as "Hemingway cats," these felines possess extra toes on their paws, typically ranging from five to seven. While not a specific breed, polydactyly can be found in various breeds and mixed-breed cats.
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Hairless cats: Cats in this category are genetically predisposed to having little or no hair, such as the Sphynx. This trait can also occur naturally or due to genetic mutations in other breeds.
Understanding these classifications provides valuable insight into the diverse world of cats, allowing enthusiasts and owners to appreciate the unique characteristics and historical backgrounds of different breeds.