What does it mean if a cat breed is closed? - briefly
A closed cat breed means its breeding is strictly controlled by a specific organization or registry, allowing only cats from approved lineages to be registered or bred.
What does it mean if a cat breed is closed? - in detail
When a cat breed is classified as "closed," it signifies that the breed's gene pool is strictly controlled and regulated to maintain its purity and adherence to specific standards. This means that only cats with documented lineage and approved pedigrees can be registered as part of the breed. Breeding is restricted to cats within the same breed, and no outcrossing—breeding with cats of other breeds—is permitted. This practice ensures that the breed's unique characteristics, such as physical traits, temperament, and genetic health, are preserved and passed down through generations. Governing bodies, such as cat registries or breed associations, oversee these regulations, often requiring breeders to follow strict guidelines and obtain certifications. A closed breed status is typically established after the breed has been sufficiently developed and stabilized, ensuring that its defining traits are consistently reproduced. While this approach helps maintain breed integrity, it can also limit genetic diversity, potentially increasing the risk of inherited health issues. Breeders of closed breeds must carefully manage their breeding programs to balance preservation with the health and well-being of the cats.