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Looking for 2 purebred kittens: Help with breed selection, please
- Thread starter bahger
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- Thread Starter Thread Starter
- #22
Again, wonderful responses, thank you all so much. I feel I've hit the motherlode here. Most other cat sites are either infested with pop-ups, inactive, or full of people called "Wussums" posting as their cats.
I'm going to research all the breeds recommended here. I can't wait to look at the Tonks, the Scottish Folds, the Ragdolls.
Any opinions on Abbysinians?
Siggav: I will be sure to keep you posted right here and to supply photographic evidence.
I'm going to research all the breeds recommended here. I can't wait to look at the Tonks, the Scottish Folds, the Ragdolls.
Any opinions on Abbysinians?
Siggav: I will be sure to keep you posted right here and to supply photographic evidence.
Please note the Ragdoll, even though medium length, will still require some grooming, not anywhere near as much as other longhair breeds, but the armpit, bib, and britches area, can require a brushing once a week, and it can be used as bonding time, as many Ragdolls enjoy brushing. They do still shed, maybe not as much as your Persian, but shedding will still be a factor. They typically get along with most other animals, other cats and dogs, and do not like being left alone for very long. I think the length of time you are gone from home, can be a judge of what type of cat may be best for your family. I know many reputable California Ragdoll breeders I would recommend. It may be a good idea to tell the breeder what temperament you are looking for in a cat, and instead of looking for a certain color, pattern, or gender, let the breeder help in being useful in finding the perfect kittens for you.
While Ragdolls are also known for being laid back and docile, these traits show up more as they grow up, and will still act like a playful kitten with energy, not as much as possibly the amount of energy a Bengal kitten may have, but it would still be playful, and want toys to interact with you with.
Not trying to talk you out of a Ragdoll, just trying to show a bigger picture of the breed, as sometimes, the breed can be played up, (which I haven't seen done in this post), but I just like making sure one has all the information.
For more factual information on the Ragdoll breed, www.rfci.org, is a great Ragdoll specific club, with pictures and information, as well as breeders that may be closer to you. If you do choose this breed.
I would recommend looking at breed clubs for more information on some the certain breeds your family is thinking of, as well as attending a possible cat show, for the ability to meet breeders, and see the cats in person as well. It sounds like you will be a wonderful family, keep up the research, and best of luck.
While Ragdolls are also known for being laid back and docile, these traits show up more as they grow up, and will still act like a playful kitten with energy, not as much as possibly the amount of energy a Bengal kitten may have, but it would still be playful, and want toys to interact with you with.
Not trying to talk you out of a Ragdoll, just trying to show a bigger picture of the breed, as sometimes, the breed can be played up, (which I haven't seen done in this post), but I just like making sure one has all the information.
For more factual information on the Ragdoll breed, www.rfci.org, is a great Ragdoll specific club, with pictures and information, as well as breeders that may be closer to you. If you do choose this breed.
I would recommend looking at breed clubs for more information on some the certain breeds your family is thinking of, as well as attending a possible cat show, for the ability to meet breeders, and see the cats in person as well. It sounds like you will be a wonderful family, keep up the research, and best of luck.
- Thread Starter Thread Starter
- #24
More invaluable advice from an expert. Thank you.Originally Posted by FamilytimeRags
Please note the Ragdoll, even though medium length, will still require some grooming, not anywhere near as much as other longhair breeds, but the armpit, bib, and britches area, can require a brushing once a week, and it can be used as bonding time, as many Ragdolls enjoy brushing. They do still shed, maybe not as much as your Persian, but shedding will still be a factor. They typically get along with most other animals, other cats and dogs, and do not like being left alone for very long. I think the length of time you are gone from home, can be a judge of what type of cat may be best for your family. I know many reputable California Ragdoll breeders I would recommend. It may be a good idea to tell the breeder what temperament you are looking for in a cat, and instead of looking for a certain color, pattern, or gender, let the breeder help in being useful in finding the perfect kittens for you.
While Ragdolls are also known for being laid back and docile, these traits show up more as they grow up, and will still act like a playful kitten with energy, not as much as possibly the amount of energy a Bengal kitten may have, but it would still be playful, and want toys to interact with you with.
Not trying to talk you out of a Ragdoll, just trying to show a bigger picture of the breed, as sometimes, the breed can be played up, (which I haven't seen done in this post), but I just like making sure one has all the information.
For more factual information on the Ragdoll breed, www.rfci.org, is a great Ragdoll specific club, with pictures and information, as well as breeders that may be closer to you. If you do choose this breed.
I would recommend looking at breed clubs for more information on some the certain breeds your family is thinking of, as well as attending a possible cat show, for the ability to meet breeders, and see the cats in person as well. It sounds like you will be a wonderful family, keep up the research, and best of luck.
Ragdolls are definitely contenders.
We love going to cat shows. Some of our friends regard it as a form of harmless eccentricity but we thoroughly enjoyed taking our children to one of the Santa Monica Civic Center events for the first time and had been to several by ourselves before the children were born. We like the people and we love the cats. Twenty years ago my wife didn't even know if she liked cats until I told her it's compulsory and shortly after this she "got it".
My husband didn't know he loved cats before he met me.
They are his children, just furry and walk funny. I love cat shows, especially when I have the time to look around, so many beautiful breeds, it is so hard to choose. Keep attending, and researching and with time, you and your family will find the purrfect family member. There are MANY wonderful California Ragdoll breeders, we have one one this forum as a matter of fact, and attends many shows, so you may have met him or his daughter who is a Jr. Acheiver, and is amazing with their cats.
Have Maine Coon and Birman been added to the list? I think they both also make good family companions. Have fun with your search!!
Have Maine Coon and Birman been added to the list? I think they both also make good family companions. Have fun with your search!!
Bahger~ I have a Scottish Fold (unfolded ears). I'd say they are a lot more laid back than Burmese. They use British Shorthairs in the breeding program, so you get a lot of that couch potato personality. They also have a very thick coat that sheds a lot (also thanks to the BSHs).
I have found Scottish Folds to be more one-person cats. I think their temperament varies a lot more than the Burmese.
Which reminds me... one thing I like about the Burmese is that they have been able to breed consistently to a specific personality type because the physical conformation is relatively easy to breed for compared to some of the others.
But they sure are cute... look at this cutie I spotted at a show!!
I have found Scottish Folds to be more one-person cats. I think their temperament varies a lot more than the Burmese.
Which reminds me... one thing I like about the Burmese is that they have been able to breed consistently to a specific personality type because the physical conformation is relatively easy to breed for compared to some of the others.
But they sure are cute... look at this cutie I spotted at a show!!
Very much a cutie, thank you for sharing!!
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I don't think an Oci would be a good fit either, my boy is super active and very naughty, traits I adore but I don't think a Persian would like.
At night he's a darling snuggly boy who sleeps under the covers with me, but during the day he's a terror
He is wonderful with children and extremely outgoing, getting in the face of everyone who comes over to visit.
I adore Aby's. My sister has two and they are the funniest, sweetest cats. Both love attention. When company comes over little Isis is alway looking for a shoulder to ride around on.
Ra, is a clown. He reminds me of an otter. Absolutely adorable and silly. The were adopted as adults, and fit right into a household of three other cats, two large dogs and a 10 year old that adores animals.
In my limited experience with them, I think they would make a good addition to your family.
Hopefully, Abymummy will post or you can PM her. She breeds beautiful Aby's and can tell you more about them.
Ra, is a clown. He reminds me of an otter. Absolutely adorable and silly. The were adopted as adults, and fit right into a household of three other cats, two large dogs and a 10 year old that adores animals.
In my limited experience with them, I think they would make a good addition to your family.
Hopefully, Abymummy will post or you can PM her. She breeds beautiful Aby's and can tell you more about them.
- Thread Starter Thread Starter
- #30
Wow, take a look at this Aby breeder page; such wonderful description. (site admin, the hyperlink button is FUBAR):
http://www.hillstblues.com/abyinfokingsqueens.html
http://www.hillstblues.com/abyinfokingsqueens.html
Tbh, all the breeds you mention are fairly active, high energy breeds and I'm not sure they'd go well with an elderly persian (although having 2 would hopefully help as they'd have each other to play with) or with a home owner who doesn't want any furtniture scratching or night time howling!
Maybe a more placid breed such as an exotic or british shorthair would be more suitable? In any instance, if you've not been around foreign style breeds before I'd recommend spending some time with breeders and doing a lot of research first otherwise you could be in for a bit of a shock!
re Abys - I have a somali (long haired Aby) and he's very active, especially at night! Abys are, generally, lively and inquisitive.
re Abys - I have a somali (long haired Aby) and he's very active, especially at night! Abys are, generally, lively and inquisitive.
i second finding more info about the breed you choose. i think it was on this site that someone wanted to get rid of their bengal because it meowed too much.Originally Posted by urbantigers
Tbh, all the breeds you mention are fairly active, high energy breeds and I'm not sure they'd go well with an elderly persian (although having 2 would hopefully help as they'd have each other to play with) or with a home owner who doesn't want any furtniture scratching or night time howling!Maybe a more placid breed such as an exotic or british shorthair would be more suitable? In any instance, if you've not been around foreign style breeds before I'd recommend spending some time with breeders and doing a lot of research first otherwise you could be in for a bit of a shock!
re Abys - I have a somali (long haired Aby) and he's very active, especially at night! Abys are, generally, lively and inquisitive.
I just LOVE exotics - they are absolutely beautiful!
I made the suggestion of an Exotic earlier, because they're a Persian with short hair, and I think that type of cat will have the mellow enough personality to be with an elderly Persian.
A lot of the breeds you've mentioned are very energetic and athletic cats - and as I have 2 very high energy cats (cornish rex cross and oriental) I honestly believe that you may find cats with similar or greater energy levels a bit of a handful. I know mine wouldn't be great with young children simply because they like to play rough adventurous games - they run across you when racing around the place and it causes scratches, favourite games are ambush your legs when you're walking down the corridor, racing across shelves and the backs of chairs and sofas etc. breaking anything that's not glued down! These things are all part of the normal day in my house!
I think from the things you have said about your circumstances and lifestyle that you would be much happier with a calmer more laid-back breed!
For that reason I second the suggestions of Exotic Shorthair and British Shorthair, they are more placid laid-back breeds and I think would fit in well in your household and wouldn't be too much for your elderly Persian to cope with
Good luck with the kitten hunt
I think from the things you have said about your circumstances and lifestyle that you would be much happier with a calmer more laid-back breed!
For that reason I second the suggestions of Exotic Shorthair and British Shorthair, they are more placid laid-back breeds and I think would fit in well in your household and wouldn't be too much for your elderly Persian to cope with
Good luck with the kitten hunt
I know you said that your wife didn't want another cat with long hair but I wouldn't necessarily rule out all other long hair cats. I think the Persian has the more difficult fur to deal with. There are other long hair breeds with a different texture to their coats and they don't mat like a Persian.
I'm still voting Tonk. He's very sweet, and while he plays hard.. he is very gentle. He was good with the kids when they were here, however... he was a little freaked out by company in the house, and the only two that dealt well with immediate company was the domestic, and the young Bengal, and more than the others... surprisingly, the Mau. There was no petting her but she didn't stay in hiding.
- Thread Starter Thread Starter
- #37
Well I hope I'm not coming across as precious; we are not so fussy about our furniture or our nocturnal peace and quiet that we wouldn't willingly trade a little of both for a pair of sweet, if rambunctious, kittens that delight the children. It's true, though, that we run a fairly tight ship as parents and homeowners; I hope that doesn't make us the Von Trapps!
Your points about getting one of the more placid breeds are very well taken. As much as we don't want a pair of gangsters, we don't want a pair of throw-pillows either! I guess I didn't include breeds like the British Shorthair or the Exotic on the original list because, having had a pair of Persians for nearly twenty years we felt like going for a contrast; if it turns out that we've bitten off more than we can chew it will have been unfortunate but I am reasonably convinced, perhaps naively, that there are certain things we can do to socialise kittens of any breed in such a way as to avoid regrettable forms of behavior...
We do have a humane obligation to consider the comfort of our old lady, Chelsea, though, and I'd be horrified to discover that, in getting new kittens, our choice of breed were responsible for a big decline in the quality of her last remaining life. I really need to research it and to determine whether this decision alone -- as opposed to the measures we would take in order to introduce the cats carefully -- could be the cause of a permanent lack of compatibility between the felines of the family and a miserable existence for Chelsea. That would not be acceptable.
Your points about getting one of the more placid breeds are very well taken. As much as we don't want a pair of gangsters, we don't want a pair of throw-pillows either! I guess I didn't include breeds like the British Shorthair or the Exotic on the original list because, having had a pair of Persians for nearly twenty years we felt like going for a contrast; if it turns out that we've bitten off more than we can chew it will have been unfortunate but I am reasonably convinced, perhaps naively, that there are certain things we can do to socialise kittens of any breed in such a way as to avoid regrettable forms of behavior...
We do have a humane obligation to consider the comfort of our old lady, Chelsea, though, and I'd be horrified to discover that, in getting new kittens, our choice of breed were responsible for a big decline in the quality of her last remaining life. I really need to research it and to determine whether this decision alone -- as opposed to the measures we would take in order to introduce the cats carefully -- could be the cause of a permanent lack of compatibility between the felines of the family and a miserable existence for Chelsea. That would not be acceptable.
Hmm, based on my crew.. and their interactions.. I'd say the Tonk is the most suited (if you were taking one from "my" crew). I mean, I can't say how they are in general, since I only have the one, but all the research I did before hand is they're very intelligent (and I've seen this one demonstrate that he is extremely intelligent).. and he's very gentle with the other cats. They're supposed to be, overall, very good with families, and in theory, they get the best/most desireable traits from the Burmese and Siamese. He's definitely active, but at play time he's *not* the one leaping and landing on my domestic.. He's very careful not to land on anyone.. he's also not the the one flipping himself off the walls and making 6 foot leaps..
I dunno... I adore all of mine, and I swear by the breeds, but honestly, I'm sure there are another eight breeds out there that I'd adore too.. and the powers that be help me cause... um.. if I discover them.. I've already got my limit on kitties, lol!!!
Good luck and let us know if you have any specific questions. The CFA and TICA websites seem to have pretty good breed descriptions, and thus far, I've found that the cats do fit those descriptions pretty well, with of course, individual traits as well. I'm not sure what everyone else's experience is with that.
I dunno... I adore all of mine, and I swear by the breeds, but honestly, I'm sure there are another eight breeds out there that I'd adore too.. and the powers that be help me cause... um.. if I discover them.. I've already got my limit on kitties, lol!!!
Good luck and let us know if you have any specific questions. The CFA and TICA websites seem to have pretty good breed descriptions, and thus far, I've found that the cats do fit those descriptions pretty well, with of course, individual traits as well. I'm not sure what everyone else's experience is with that.
- Thread Starter Thread Starter
- #39
Okay, impressed by your advocacy I'm headed over the CFA results page for Tonk breeders in CA...
Well, I can tell you that as naughty and rambunctious that my Simba is, he never bothered my elderly cat Snoopy, who lived to be 20 years of age. It was like he just KNEW that old Snoop was a very ancient senior, and Simba seemed to have great respect for the wonderful old boy. That doesn't mean he hasn't had his share of fun picking on my next to the oldest cat Shane who was about 7 when I bought Simba.
One of the main reasons I didn't get a Bengal from a rescue, was because I felt that a kitten would be a lot less threatening to old Snoopster and Simba was. Of course Bengal kittens here in Southern California a VERY expensive. If you purchased 2 you would probably be spening $3000 for the pair. Also, from what I can see, Bengal's never outgrow kitten hood. Simba is 3 yrs old now, and he's no different than he was as a baby, and like I said, his favourite pastime is making a mess.
One of the main reasons I didn't get a Bengal from a rescue, was because I felt that a kitten would be a lot less threatening to old Snoopster and Simba was. Of course Bengal kittens here in Southern California a VERY expensive. If you purchased 2 you would probably be spening $3000 for the pair. Also, from what I can see, Bengal's never outgrow kitten hood. Simba is 3 yrs old now, and he's no different than he was as a baby, and like I said, his favourite pastime is making a mess.
