All cats are beautiful and deserve all the love in the world. There are several domestic cat breeds around the globe that make wonderful pets. If you are a cat lover or have been looking around for a suitable house cat, you may have considered the majestic blue-grey felines. The British Shorthair, Russian Blue, Korat, and Chartreux are renowned varieties that are often mixed up due to akin features, primarily their coat color. It can be hard to tell the difference, unless you have done your research beforehand.

Each of these exotic cats are a superb choice to bring home, but they all have distinct personalities (and physical characteristics if you look closely).

If you can’t decide between the four, some explanation will surely grant you clarity:

British Shorthair

The British Shorthair, native to Great Britain, dates back to the first century AD, winning it the title of an ancient feline species. They were originally developed to keep rodents out of the house and were also kept by Romans at sea to eradicate ship vermin. Believe it or not, the British Shorthair comes in a range of colors and patterns, but the solid blue-grey variety is simply the most popular. This cat keeps growing up to three years of age and can get quite big in size. Therefore, it is among those breeds that take ample time to mature; also, it is prone to obesity, so you may have to be careful about feeding habits. Personality wise, these cats are very gentle and laidback. They are perfect for homes having kids and other furry animals, including dogs. They are quite independent, so they won’t get frightened or agitated if left alone in the house. This cat loves to play and bond, though it is not at all clingy. The British Shorthair has a fluffy and matt silvery coat, cobby/stubby body and big round eyes that are gold or copper colored.

Russian Blue

The Russian blue is a naturally occurring breed of Russia and Scandinavia, which emerged after the World War 2. They have long slender bodies, luminous green/yellowish-green eyes, and a thick coat comprising of fine, barbed, and shiny blue-grey hair. Another prominent feature are their large ears that are set wide apart. The Russian blue is a social and agile cat, which likes to explore out of curiosity. They
have the tendency to get emotionally attached to one person in particular. They do not mind some alone time, but will demand affection when you return home. This breed is very intelligent, observant, and vocal, though it struggles with adapting to any kind of change.

Korat

The Korat materialized in Thailand along the 19 th century and is known as a variant of the Burmese; it also referred to as a ‘blue Siamese cat’. The Korat is a medium-sized muscular cat possessing a heart shaped head and large amber green eyes. Fun fact: a Korat’s eyes are blue at birth and develop a yellow lining as they grow, eventually turning amber green at maturity. The coat color of this cat is usually a deeper shade of grey, in comparison to its familiars; also, the roots of the hairs are usually lighter than the tips. Korats are quiet and sweet cats, which are very devoted to their human parent; however, they can be unfriendly or aggressive towards other cat breeds in the house.

Chartreux

The Chartreux is a rare French breed, which was first identified in the 15 th century. It is a burly cat, having a rounded face, ears, and body. The cat’s coat is dense and woolly in texture; the hair feels thick and silky. The eyes of a Chartreux are slanted or almond shaped, having a deep yellow to orange coloration. It is generally affectionate, self-contained, and silent, though it mingles well with everyone in the house. It may occasionally follow you around like a dog, which is a nice perk; not to mention, you
earn a loyal companion without the risk of dog bite injuries.

Author Bio
John Adams is a lifestyle blogger who loves sharing his personal opinions and experiences. He enjoys traveling for the love of nature and wildlife. Time spent at home with his pets is equally cherished, and they inspire a lot of his writing.

Article written by our friend George @LifewithCatman
Photos by Manuel Keller on Unsplash

Known recently as Taylor Swift's cats, the Scottish Fold cat offers easy care and are comfortable with all members of the family.

Scottish Fold - At a glance

Weight range:                   Male: large: >12 lbs.
                                         Female: medium: 8-12 lbs.
Eye color:                         Blue, Green, Gold, Odd-eyed
Expectations:                   Longevity Range: 9-12 yrs.
Social/Attention Needs:   Moderate
Tendency to Shed:           High
Coat:                                Length: Short, Medium, Long
Characteristics:               Straight
Colors:                         White, Blue, Cream, Red, Silver, Cameo, Brown, Bluecream, Tortoiseshell, Black
Pattern:                       Solid color, Tortoiseshell, Tricolor/Calico, Bicolor, Tabby, Ticking, Smoke, Shaded, Spots
Less Allergenic:                 No
Overall Grooming Needs:  Moderate, High

The Scottish Fold is a medium-sized cat with medium sized boning. She is a very round looking cat.

The head is round and the folded ears heighten that illusion of roundness. The eyes are very round, bright and clear. The legs appear round, as does the tail in comparison to its length. The short coat is easy to care for. Some registries allow a longhaired version of the Scottish Fold called the Scottish Fold Longhair. Their longer coats can vary slightly in texture, and require regular care.

Personality:
The Scottish Fold is a sweet, charming breed.  She is an easy cat to live with and care for.  She is affectionate and comfortable with all members of the family.  Her tail should be handled gently.  Some of these cats are known to develop stiffness in the tail that can cause pain if it is mishandled or accidentally handled in a rough manor

Living with:
Care should be taken with the nutrition of the Scottish Fold.  This breed has a roundness about it to begin with and she should not become overweight.​ She is a good eater and is not as active as other breeds, so nutritionary control is critical

The Scottish Fold needs some interactive play with her parent in order to keep in good condition. While the coat is an easy one to care for, she appreciates being brushed as part of play.  As the Scottish Fold ages, play gently with the tail, moving it from side to side, and up and down. If any stiffness is noticed or if she appears to be in pain when the tail is manipulated, she should be taken to the veterinarian to make certain she is not suffering from arthritis.

History:
Cats with drooping ears or folded ears are ancient. The first word of one goes as far back as 1796. In this year, an English sailor brought back one of these cats when he returned from China. The Chinese also contributed the second example of a folded ear cat to the cat fancy history when one was noted in 1938.
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But the Scottish Fold as we know her today was first born in 1961 in Pertshire, Scotland. There, a kitten with folded ears was discovered in a litter of otherwise "normal" eared kittens. This kitten, named Susie, was then bred to domestic cats and British Shorthair cats to establish the folded ear. To this day, every Scottish fold can trace her ancestry to Susie.
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While the British established the Scottish Fold as a breed, she has never been as popular there as she is in the United States. Not only did Americans fall in love with this breed, but developed the breed into the beautiful cat she is today.
The Scottish Fold is difficult to breed. The folded ear cat must not be bred to another folded ear cat. Allowable outcrosses, in addition to a straight-eared cat, are the American Shorthair and British Shorthair. If two folded eared cats are bred to each other, the resulting kittens can be impaired to the extent of having difficulty walking. Even with this outcross, Scottish Folds tend to have small litters and not all of these kittens have folded ears.

Photo by Omar Ram on Unsplash

Looking for a cute and adorable cat breeds that stay small? Well, you’re in for a great knowledge treat! There are so many cat breeds that are just naturally small and don’t physically grow over time. Also, don’t confuse teacup kittens as a natural cat breed. The cute and adorable cat breed is just a result of irresponsible breeding but somehow made it positively recognizable to the public.
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If you want a natural small type of cat that isn’t really that hard to pet and breed, here are some of the best, cute and adorable cat breeds in the world.
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This small breed of cat probably has the funniest face among all others. It has unique ears that might imply that it doesn’t naturally match the shape or figure of that cat’s face. In fact, the ears of the Oriental cat are the main characteristic indicator that the cat is indeed an Oriental breed. The cat is agile and can move around small and close areas with no problems. They have small and short hair that takes a long time to grow, making hair maintenance and shedding lesser than other cat breeds.
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Korat cats are one of the many beautiful and eye-catching breeds of cats. They have a glowing hair, skin or coat that requires less cleaning and maintenance. They have the habit to clean their own hair. You’d just need to keep the odor controlled but the hair always remains bright and shiny. Korat breed is really a good companion. They are great for people whose suffering from anxiety, depression and it’s a good pet for old people as it doesn’t grow large and heavy which makes them easier to handle. All you’d need to keep them around is a good cat collar and you’re good to go.
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​The name literally stands as it is. Munchkin cats have their name derived from the characteristics of a munchkin from the book which describes the physic of the character of a small child or a short person. They are small and shiny cats that apart from being small, they tend to be super adorable and cute as they are fluffy and chubby. They have a sweet and friendly nature and don’t really require much effort in maintenance and attention.
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​There are two types of Japanese bobtail when it comes to size, small and large. Small breeds of Japanese Bobtail have the same traits and characteristics with the large type or breed. They only differ in size but they are practically the same when it comes to habit, nature, and characteristics. They are a friendly and adorable cat. HelloKitty was actually inspired by this type of cat.
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​The American Curl cat originated from the western coastal areas of the United States. Today, we can see the breed has spread all over the world. It is a small breed of cat that has characteristics that survived for different generations. There are two types of American Curl, the long-haired and the short haired. But either of the two holds the same nature and characteristics. They are usually identified by the unique structure of their ears which looks kind of like it has been folded backward.
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​This cat breed is one of the sweetest and loving cats in the world. They loved to be petted by anyone and everyone they meet. There are very rare cases that Singapura cat don’t like someone. They are highly interactive with humans. By the name of it, this cat originated from the country of Singapore. They are highly adaptive to environmental change and can highly survive in most parts of the world.
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Sakoke is not just a cute and adorable, small cat breed, it’s also one of the rarest. Some of you might even hear of it just now. The cat is naturally friendly and playful in nature. They love interactive with humans and not like those grumpy, boss-like cat breeds. The Sakoke cats are usually affectionate to their owners. Some of them are even vocal where they try to communicate with you with what they want or if they want to play with you.​
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​A good choice of cat breed to consider would be the Cornish Rex cat. It is a shorthaired cat, skinny but with large ears. The structure of the ear could be easily noticed, indicating that the cat is a Cornish Rex as it’s not really proportional to the cat’s body. Some people even see a rat-like cat due to its physique. The cat loves to cuddle, play and very affectionate to everyone around them, especially with human companions.
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​This breed originated in some counties around Southeast Asia. They are hardworking cats. Not in the sense that they do or help you with your day to day chores, but instead, keep themselves busy. You’d only see them do nothing if they are resting or sleeping. Of course, they are also affectionate. If they’re running out of things to do, they’d spend some time with you cuddling, pampering, or playing.

The Minskin cat is a breed combination of a Sphynx and a Munchkin Cat. That’s why it looks like a small breed of Sphynx cat. However, this small cat breed is hairless. They might look like a large new-born rat but in a cute and adorable way. Minskin cat is very charming, playful and affectionate. They like to play and prowl around. The cat has a weird behavior of sleeping in high places. They usually take all the daytime to sleep and go wild at night time. For this cat breed, you might want to consider getting the best cat toy so that they’ll have something to do at night and won’t disturb your sleep.

This article was written by Chloe Larson, who blogs over at kittywise.com.

3. If You Don’t Consider How to Acclimate Your New Pet to Your Home, It Won’t Feel Comfortable

Of course, you’ll want to play with your pet and get acquainted as soon as you bring it home. But, your pet will need time to adjust to its new surroundings, and you need to help it through the transition. This is especially true if you have adopted a rescue animal who may have been abused or in a shelter for quite some time. 

One of the best ways to help your pet feel at home is to give them their own space. You should have a cat bed, toys, and scratch posts or boxes in a dedicated space. You also should keep its food and water in the same place.  If your cat needs a hiding place, make a cage available to it, and allow them to remain in their cage when guests visit, especially if a dog is a potential guest. 

4. Make Sure Owning  a Pet Won’t Be a Financial Hardship

The idea of a fast friendship with a new pet can easily overshadow the importance of assessing your ability to afford this pet. Do the math first. Can you afford food, toys, vaccinations, and random visits to the vet? If the answer is no, you should forgo getting an animal that you might have to give up. If the answer is yes, then you are in the perfect position to welcome a new cat into your home. 

Becoming a first-time pet owner will be more enjoyable for you and your new cat if you do your homework first, prepare your home, and take steps to acclimate it to your home. This sets the stage for the friendship of a lifetime. 

Author

Ms. Brody created OurBestFriends to offer a place for animal lovers to share their favorite pet photos and stories about their furry pals.
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KITTY in NY provides the perfect solutions for your short and long term needs. Our cat sitting service will help you get away on short business trips or long weekends. A caregiver will visit your cat/s in your apartment. Our in-home boarding service is recommended for mid/long term services, you bring your cat to the caregiver's apartment where he/she will be the only pet. Contact us with more information about the service you need.

The first cat with Siamese markings appeared on an engraving discovered by a Mr. Pallas on his journey into Russia in 1794. There is no record of Siamese cats as a breed until the 1800s. In 1884 the departing British Consul-General Gould was given a Siamese cat by the Siamese king as a gift. It was a great honor since the cat came from the royal family. The progeny of this cat given to Consul-General Gould was exhibited by his sister, Mrs. Lilian (Gould) at the Crystal Palace Show in October 1885. These cats were so extraordinary that they captured immediate attention. The first Siamese cat club was founded in England in 1902.

Siamese cats arrived to the United States at the beginning of the 20th century. The Siamese Cat Society of America was founded in April 1909. Its popularity reached a peak in the 50's and 60's when Siamese cats appeared in movies such as "That Darn Cat", "The Incredible Journey", & Disney's classic "Lady and the Tramp".

The Siamese is an very intelligent cat. They are talkative and tend to become very close to their human companions. Their meow is quite unique (deep and loud).
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The Siamese coat pattern is beautiful. The face, ears, paws and tail have darker colouring, the body is light. Their amazing eyes are blue and almond shaped. The most commonly known colours are seal, blue, chocolate and lilac.

New Yorkers love Siamese cats. Many of our clients contact us with lovely Siamese kittens. If you need to book an in-home boarding service or a cat sitting service try to contact us at least two weeks before your departure. Kitty in NY offers the best in-home boarding solutions in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx. We would love to help you find the perfect temporary home for your cat/s or the right cat sitter while you're away.

Bengals literally take their name from the Asian leopard cat scientific name: Felix bengalensis. They are domestic cats created by cross breeding between Asian leopard cats and domestic shorthair cats. The first to make the cross was Jean Mill in California, who decided to get her leopard cat a black domestica male cat. To her surprise they ended up with a litter of spotted kittens. Since then many breeders became interested and the breed was finally fully recognized by the International Cat Fanciers Association in 1991.

Bengals are very athletic with long muscular bodies. They weight an average of 8 to 15 pounds. They require playtime and exercise, are curious and love to learn tricks. Very smart and attentive to what is going on around them. Their beautiful spotted short coat doesn't require lots of care, a weekly combing should be enough. Petting a Bengal feels luxurious, their coat is silky and extremely smooth. The spotted pattern reminds of a wild leopard or jaguar.

Bengals prefer to be up high, they climb and like to be where the action is. They can be a lap cat when they want to. It is an ideal cat for an active family. Beautiful and dynamic, it would provide feline companion and display their beautiful looks.

Kitty in NY has many Bengal clients. Our caregivers will provide the playtime and attention your Bengal needs. Contact us with more details about your service, we'll be glad to help you with your cat. Our temporary homes (where your cat will be the only pet) are the best solution for long term needs. 

Ragdolls are large cats with beautiful blue eyes and a sweet personality. Ragdolls are more interested in humans than other breeds, they get along with children and play without extending their claws. They are quiet and laid back, ideal as a family cat. They are tolerant and enjoy cuddling.

Ragdolls were bred in the 1960's by Anne Baker, in Riverdale, California. She had a long haired white female, name Josephine. A seal mitted male was the father. The most striking feature of the kittens was their sweet temperament. The Ragdoll is a relaxed, happy cat.

Ragdolls can grow to be 20 pounds (male) and 15 pounds females. They have a long body with a heavy bone structure. Their silky coat (it feels like a rabbit fur) is quite easy to groom. You should brush it once a week. Their coat is pointed and comes in three patterns: bicolor, colorpoint and mitted.  All Ragdolls have blue eyes and will bring you companionship and peace.

Kitty in NY has some Ragdoll kitty guests. Our caregivers will take good care of your cat while you're away. When you go out of town we provide in-home boarding and cat sitting solutions at affordable rates. Our caregivers love your cat. You will receive periodic updates during the boarding. Contact us and explain what service you need. We'll be glad to help you.

If you're looking for a calm cat like a Persian but easy to care for, look no further, the Exotic Shorthair is what you've been looking for. Their shedding is minimal but they still have a silky, plush and luxurious coat.

A breed with barely 50 years of history, the Exotic can be described as a short-haired Persian. American Shorthair breeders bred to Persians to obtain new coat colors and green eyes. The kittens were so pretty to look at, just like Persians but with a short, dense plush coat. Very fast they have become a popular breed and there are many reasons to explain this popularity.

The Exotic Shorthair is easy-going and affectionate, a gentle cat who rarely meows. They will follow you from room to room and demand attention. They get close to their humans! Exotic Shorthair cats enjoy simple pleasures. They can play with a paper ball and will happily curl up on your lap while you read or use your computer. They don't need much space, which makes them ideal for an apartment, a true companion pet.

Exotic Shorthair cats meet every standard for the Persian breed except for the coat. The Exotic does not require daily combing, a weekly combing is recommended to avoid hairballs. It is a fairly short cat, a round and muscular physique with lines softened by the thick/dense coat. Their coat comes in every color and pattern. Their faces are identical to the Persians, short and broad with a flattened muzzle. The Exotic retains a kittenish look all their life, with big round eyes, small ears and short nose. Their irresistable looks along with their ease of grooming and their easy-going personality make the Exotic the perfect pet.

Kitty in NY has some Exotic clients. Our caregivers love all cats, your cat will enjoy a home environment while you're away. We also propose cat sitting services for short periods. Contact us with more details about the service you need, we'll get back to you as soon as possible to help you find the best in-home boarding or cat sitting solution.

All cats make good pets. Non pure breed cats (or mixed) come in short and long hair. DSH or DLH (Domestic Shorthair or Domestic Longhair) come in all sizes, colour patterns and hair length. Some resemble a pure breed and some don't. Most cats are non purebred.

Domestic shorthairs and longhairs make great pet companions but you take a few chances when adopting (or buying) a non purebred kitten. You are not sure how big it will grow, how the hair length will finally be or how his personality will develop. Even coat color can change over time.

Purebred kittens grow into adult cats that we can predict. You usually can see their mother and other cats of the same breed. You know the size, hair color and length and even some of the personality traits. Of course all cats are different (just like with different members of your family) but some breeds are known for being calmer than others, more vocal (or less), more attached to their humans than others.

Many Domestic Shorthairs cats will suit your life style but it's harder to predict which kitten will be the best choice. If your cat's personality (or looks) is on the top of your priorities maybe a pure breed is a safer option. Do you need a very social cat who enjoys a house with frequent visitors and big gatherings? Would a very active cat drive you crazy? Does a cat who meows very often bother you? Knowing more about cat breeds can help you make the best choice.

Pure breed or Domestic Shorthair or Longhair cats, they will both bring you joy and companionship. At Kitty in NY we provide the best cat care services for your cat during vacations, holidays, apartment renovations or business trips. In-home boarding at one of our caregiver's apartment is the best option for mid-long term services. Your cat will enjoy a home environment with 24 supervision by a true cat lover. Contact us with more details about the service you need, we'll be glad to help you.

Devon Rex are human loving and have some dog-like qualities. If you decide to have a Devon Rex you must be prepared: A Devon will follow you everywhere: eat with you, sleep with you, and perch on your shoulder. They enjoy human company!

You should not be surprised to find a Devon in bed with you or another family member, underneath the covers or settled on your pillow. Devons remain kittens all their lives. They have a precious connection with every person in the household.

The look of the Devon Rex is far from ordinary: long necks, odd heads and big ears, and a curly coat that can range from wildly curly to soft suedelike. They are rather small cats (between six to nine pounds). Devons are quite low maintenance, wash-and-wear companions although Devons are not hypoallergenic (as some believe). They do shed, although their unique coat may make the shedding less obtrusive than that of many cats.

Mother Nature created this feline oddity. They originated in Devonshire, England, in the late 1950s when a Miss Cox found that a stray cat in her care had given birth to a rather odd looking curly-haired kitten.

Man had no hand in the mutation, but man made it possible for the mutation to survive and flourish, providing cat lovers around the globe the opportunity to meet, love, and be loved by a Devon Rex cat. Colors include a wide array of solid, shaded, smoke, tabby, bi-color, and pointed patterns.

The social nature of the Devon makes them unsuited to spending long periods of time without human companionship. Kitty in NY has some Devon Rex clients. Our caregivers have the time they need to keep your Devon Rex happy while you're away. Contact us with more details about your cat boarding service, we will get back to you as soon as possible.

The Abyssinian is a breed of domestic shorthaired cat in which each hair is banded with different colors. Kittens are born with dark coats that lighten as they grow over several months. The ticked effect (which is the trademark of the breed) should be uniform all over the body. Each hair has a light base with three or four bands of additional color growing darker towards the tip. The base color should be as light as possible. The typical tabby M shaped marking on the forehead is often found.

The name refers to Ethiopia (formerly Abyssinia) from where it's thought to have originated. Recent research now places the origins of the breed in Egypt. British soldiers deployed in the North African coast returned home with kittens purchased from local traders.

The original color standard is the reddish-brown. The sorrel (also known as cinnamon or red) has a lighter base with chocolate brown ticking. Their expressive eyes can be orange, gold, hazel, green or copper. They are medium sized cats.

Abyssinians are very extroverted and extremely smart. They tend to be very close to their owners and are known for getting depressed when they don't get activity and attention from their owners. In-Home cat boarding would be the ideal solution for your Abyssinian if you plan to leave the city for a few days.

KITTY in NY has a wide selection of caregivers in the city. They all love cats but have no pets of their own. They would enjoy taking care of your cat in their apartments while you're away. Contact us as soon as possible with your cat boarding needs. We'll be glad to help you.

The Manx cat, is a breed of domestic cat originating on the Isle of Man, with a naturally occurring mutation that shortens the tail. Many Manx have a small stub of a tail, but Manx cats are best known as being entirely tailless; this is the most distinguishing characteristic of the breed, along with elongated hind legs and a rounded head. Manx cats come in all coat colours and patterns. Manx are prized as skilled hunters, and thus have often been sought by farmers with rodent problems, and been a preferred ship's cat breed. They are said to be social, tame and active. The breed is said to be highly intelligent, playful, and in its behaviour reminiscent of dogs. 

Manx cats often learn to fetch small thrown objects. They may also follow their owners about like puppies, and are believed to be better able to learn simple verbal commands than most cats.  They get along wonderfully with children and other family pets and have been known to protect their families from real or supposed danger. If given the chance, they are still great hunters, and a house with a Manx will certainly never have to worry about rodents. Manx mothers teach their kittens to hunt early in life using whatever “prey” they have available, such as bugs, feather toys, catnip mice, and other objects. A house with a Manx will never be boring! Manx have been exhibited in cat shows since the 1800s, with the first known breed standard published in 1903.

We have had some Manx Island cats as clients, they are lovely! At Kitty in NY we have the best cat boarding and cat sitting solutions for your cat/s. Contact us with more details about your cat (age, character, special care) and your dates. We'll get back to you as soon as possible with a caregiver available for your dates. You will be able to meet and visit the prospective caregiver. Your cat will enjoy his own "vacation" while you're away. Caregivers available in Manhattan, Brooklyn or Queens.

You could think, from the name, that this is an ancient breed, hailing from Egypt and the time of the Pharaohs, but their history is quite short. In 1966 a tuxedo domestic cat gave birth to a hairless kitten in Toronto. This cat and a few other naturally hairless cats have been found worldwide; they are the foundation for this unusual breed. When properly bred, the Sphynx is a robust breed with few serious health or genetic problems.

All colors and patterns are possible. The color and pattern of the cat are seen in the pigment of the skin and the few hairs that are present. Sphynx are medium sized cats and not fragile in any way. As with most cats, males are larger than females. Sphynx have sturdy bones, good muscle development and a firm belly as if they just finished a nice dinner. They have a intelligent expression with extra wrinkling on their head which some see as a worried or inquisitive look. Care should be taken to limit the Sphynx cat's exposure to outdoor sunlight, as they can develop sunburn and skin damage similar to that of humans. In general, Sphynx cats should not be allowed outdoors unattended, as they have limited means to conserve body heat when it is cold. One of the most often questions asked about Sphynx is, “Don’t they get cold?” If it is too cold for you, then it will probably be too cold for a hairless cat. 

Because of the lack of hair that would normally absorb body oils, Sphynx need regular bathing. A bath is not difficult with Sphynx, as most cats have been acclimated from kittenhood with bathing. Grooming should take place once a week (or every two weeks).

Some people allergic to cats can tolerate living with Sphynx. There is no airborne hair to deal with and the reactive chemical in their saliva is lower than many breeds. Regular bathing also helps to keep the dander at bay.

The Sphynx is a true extrovert. It will demand your undivided attention and hates to be ignored. Sphynx cats cannot be left alone for long periods of time, they demand attention and seek human company.

Our clients know their cats will receive all the attention they deserve from our caregivers when they are away. Contact us to book your next cat boarding or cat sitting service. Kitty in NY has nice options in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. We would love to take care of your cat.

The Maine Coon is one of the oldest breeds in North America. The Maine Coon is generally regarded as a native of the state of Maine (in fact, the Maine Coon is the official Maine State Cat). The breed originated when short haired cats bred with long haired cats brought to the area (perhaps Angora or Turkish cats brought to New England by seamen or other long haired cats introduces by the Vikings).

Maine Coons were popular competitors at early cat shows in Boston and New York. 'Cosie' a brown tabby female won Best Cat at the 1895 Madison Square Garden Show. Their popularity as show cats declined with the arrival in 1900 of the Persians. Although the Maine Coon remained a favorite cat in New England, the breed did not begin to regain its former popularity until 50's. MCBFA membership includes over 1000 fanciers and 200 breeders today.

Maine Coons were well established more than a century ago as a hardy, handsome breed of domestic cat, well equipped to survive hard New England winters. The Maine Coon is a strong, healthy cat.

Everything about the Maine Coon is designed to survive a harsh climate. Its coat, heavy and water-resistant, is like that of no other breed. The coat falls smoothly, and is almost maintenance-free: a weekly combing is all that is usually required to keep it in top condition. The long, bushy tail which the cat wraps around himself when he curls up to sleep can protect him from cold winters. His ears are heavily furred for protection from the cold. With their round, tufted feet are able to walk on snow. The relatively long muzzle facilitates lapping water from streams and puddles.

Maine Coons are muscular, tall cats; males can reach 13 to 18 pounds, females weigh about 9 to 12 pounds.

Maine Coons take time to develop, achieving their full size when they are 3 to 5 years old. Their character remains kittenish throughout their lives; they are big, gentle and good-natured.

While Maine Coons are people oriented cats, they are not overly dependent. They do not constantly pester you for attention, but prefer to "hang out" with their owners, investigating whatever activity you're involved in. They are not, as a general rule, known as "lap cats" but as with any personality trait there are a few Maine Coons that prefer laps. Most Maine Coons will stay close by, probably occupying the chair next to yours instead. Maines will follow you from room to room or wait outside a closed door for you to emerge. A Maine Coon will be your companion, your buddy, your pal. They make great family pets.

The Maine Coon is a popular breed in New York. Kitty in NY has many clients who need a temporary home for their Maine Coon: relocations, renovations, moving to a new apartment, a dream vacation or an important business trip. Kitty in NY is the perfect solution for all those occasions. Your cat will enjoy a temporary loving home until you return to the city. You will receive periodic updates. We have great options in Manhattan, Brooklyn or Queens. Contact us to book your next boarding service with us.

Orientals have their foundation in the Siamese breed but represent a diverse group of cats. After the Oriental Shorthair was accepted for championship status in 1977, it has become one of CFA’s most popular breeds. While the breed's genetic roots are ultimately in Thailand, it was developed mainly in the US.

All color patterns and combinations are accepted. The Oriental is talkative and opinionated. They have a load meow and expect you to pay attention to them. Orientals are extremely close to their people. They will follow you around and supervise your every move. Orientals love company.

Be sure you have time to spend with this demanding and social cat. Orientals become highly attached to their people. The Oriental will greet you at the door and honestly believe everyone visiting is there to entertain and see them. Orientals do not like being left alone for long periods, and if you work during the day it can be smart to get two of them so they can keep each other company. If you need to leave for a short trip or holiday it is better to have them boarded. The Oriental is very intelligent and athletic, and loves to play. You should keep him toys and his body exercised with teaser toys that he can chase and a big cat tree he can climb. He is fully capable of opening doors and drawers or rifling through your purse in search of something interesting to play with.

The short coat of the Oriental Shorthair is easily cared for. Comb it every couple of weeks with a stainless steel comb or soft bristle brush to remove dead hair, then polish it with a soft cloth to make it shine. Keep the Oriental’s litter box spotlessly clean. Cats are very particular about bathroom hygiene. It’s a good idea to keep an Oriental as an indoor-only cat to protect him from diseases spread by other cats, attacks by dogs or coyotes, and the other dangers that face cats who go outdoors, such as being hit by a car. Orientals who go outdoors also run the risk of being stolen. They are quite different and draw attention to them easily.

Since Orientals do not like solitude in-home cat boarding is the best solution for them when you're away. Our caregivers will keep her company and spend quality with your cat. We love cats, your cat will be the only pet in the apartment. Book now your next cat boarding service, we'll be glad to help you. Kitty in NY has excellent options for you in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens.

Charlie - photo by Helmi Flick

If you are interested in having a purebreed Oriental cat you may visit the following website: http://quincess-orientals.com/

Persians are well known for their looks and sweet personality. They have a long thick hair that requires some attention but you will enjoy their sweet and quiet company.

Persians originated in Mesopotamia (later known as Persia and Irak nowadays). The long hair was probably the result of a mutation. A Italian nobleman (Pietro della Valle) is credited for bringing the first Persian cat to Europe in 1626. Until the end of the 19th century long haired cats from Persia, Turkey or Afghanistan were known as "Asiatic" cats. In 1871 Persian type cats were exhibited at the Crystal Palace cat show, in Hyde Park, London. They had become popular at the time because Queen Victoria loved the breed. 

The present day appearance was achieved through selective breeding. Persians have a round head, short face, chubby cheeks. small ears, big eyes and short legs. Their hair is longer than other long haired breeds like Angora.

Persian cats were first imported in the United States in the late 19th century. They have become widely popular. Persians have appeared in many Hollywood films. One of the funniest ones is as the companion of Blofeld, the supervillain in the James Bond series. He is recognizable for always having a Persian cat with him.

Persians love routine and calm environments (even more than other cat breeds). They will adorn your chair, sofa or bed until you have time to admire her and provide the attention she deserves. This cat will not climb your curtains or countertops nor perch on top of the refrigerator. Their domain is the floor and low surfaces where she can groom and rest. They are however selective, they will reserve their attention to family members and those few friends or guests whom they trust.

Persians have many health incidences. There is a number of potential health problems you should be careful about:

• Constricted nostrils - this may cause difficulty breathing (or noisy)
  
• Dental malocclusions (the teeth won't mesh well together)
  
• Eye conditions - excessive eye discharge or entropion (an inward rolling of the eyelid edges)
  
• Higher sensitivity to heat
  
• Polycystic kidney disease
  
• Predisposition to fungal infections
  
• Seborrhea oleosa, a skin condition that causes itchiness and hairloss
  

The most important part of a Persian daily care is grooming. Their beautiful coat doesn't stay shinny and untangled on its own. You should brush and comb it every day, making it part of the time you spend with your cat. Bathing your cat once or twice a month is also a good idea.

Siamese is one of the most recognisable of cat breeds. They have an interesting history.

The first cat with Siamese markings appeared on an engraving discovered by a Mr. Pallas on his journey into Russia in 1794. There is no record of Siamese cats as a breed until the 1800s. In 1884 the departing British Consul-General Gould was given a Siamese cat by the Siamese king as a gift. It was a great honor since the cat came from the royal family. The progeny of this cat given to Consul-General Gould was exhibited by his sister, Mrs. Lilian (Gould) at the Crystal Palace Show in October 1885. These cats were so extraordinary that they captured immediate attention. The first Siamese cat club was founded in England in 1902.

Siamese cats arrived to the United States at the beginning of the 20th century. The Siamese Cat Society of America was founded in April 1909. Its popularity reached a peak in the 50's and 60's when Siamese cats appeared in movies such as "That Darn Cat", "The Incredible Journey", & Disney's classic "Lady and the Tramp".

The Siamese is an very intelligent cat. They are talkative and tend to become very close to their human companions. Their meow is quite unique (deep and loud).

The Siamese coat pattern is beautiful. The face, ears, paws and tail have darker colouring, the body is light. Their amazing eyes are blue and almond shaped. The most commonly known colours are seal, blue, chocolate and lilac.

New Yorkers love Siamese cats. Many of our clients contact us with lovely Siamese kittens. If you need to book a cat boarding service try to contact us at least two weeks before your departure. Kitty in NY offers the best in-home boarding solutions in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. We would love to help you find the perfect temporary home for your cats while you're away from the city.

The term "Tabby" applies to a color pattern, not a breed of cats. The tabby pattern can be found in almost any type of domestic cat. You can find the tabby pattern in different shapes and colors: dots, stripes, swirls or in brown, gray or orange tones, as well as a combination of these shapes/colors. Tabby cats come in four distinct coat patterns: Classic, Mackerel, Spotted, and Ticked.

You can also find the tabby patterns as part of a completely different coat color. "Tabby point" Siamese cats have tabby coloring on their extremities. You can see the tabby pattern on some black cats when they rest under the sun.

The "M" on their foreheads is  the most distinctive feature seen in common on all tabby cats. Wild "cats" like tigers and cheetahs share this "M".

The behavior traits among different tabby cat breeds can be as different and varied as those seen in human beings of different locations. Most tabby fans agree on the following:

• Tabbies are extremely playful by nature. Good hunters, they love to play with their human friends.
  
• They love to hang around their "family" and are usually more attached to a particular person in the house.
  
• Gentle by nature. They love being the center of attention.
  
• Owners say that tabbies are very laid-back. They seem to be more intelligent than other felines.
  
• Always ready to play. Tabby cats are affectionate and cheerful.

Most people who had the chance to share sometime with a tabby know that there is more than just the color of the cat that's special.

We would love to take care of your tabby while you're out of the city. Let us know your dates. At Kitty in NY we have caregivers with loads of cat toys. Your tabby will receive all the attention and playtime he deserves.