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Cheetoh Cat

The Cheetoh Cat, originating in the United States of America, was developed by crossing the Bengal Cat and the Ocicat.These spotted cats were bred with the intention of creating a unique pedigree cat. Their chiseled shaped head, small-sized eyes, prominent ears, short tail and beautiful, spotted, furry coats make them unique compared to the other feline breeds. The males are solid bodied whereas the females have a smaller.

Quick Information

Physical Appearance & Size

Weight:7 kg to 10 kg

Colors & Patterns

Coat:Short, spotted.
Color:Black or brown spotted tan, Black spotted smoke, Black or brown spotted Sienna ( Rust), Silver spotted, Brown Marbled, Blue Marbled, Gold spotted snow, cinnamon spotted

Other Characteristics

Group:Domestic
Life Expectancy:10 to 15 years
Personality Traits:Gentle, Intelligent, Affectionate, Social
Shedding:Average
Good with Children:Yes
Vocalization:High
Hypoallergenic:Partially
Country of Origination:United States of America

History

The credit of developing this unique feline breed in 2001 goes to Carol Drymon, belonging to the Wind Havens Exotic. She crossed a male Ocicat with a Bengal of the feminine gender to produce a cat having a wild appearance just as a small-sized leopard or cheetah but domestic in nature. The first Cheetoh litters were produced in 2003. Other breeders of the United States of America were invited to participate in the breeding program of these cats.

The United Feline Organization gave recognition to this breed in November, 2004. Other associations to register this breed are the Australian National Cats Inc (ANCATS) and Catz Inc, Newzealand. The International Cat Association (TICA) has enlisted these cats in the “Experimental New Breed Registry” category.

Temperament and Personality

Its fierce appearance is a complete contrast to its docile, gentle and sociable behavior. These intelligent, curious cats have a striking resemblance to dogs in terms of their traits. The Cheetoh is an excellent lap cat, loving to be in the company of human beings throughout the day. Being trustworthy, sociable, amicable and affectionate, they are well suited for children, dogs, and other cats. The male cats are not at all hostile, displaying maternal affection towards the kittens as well as the juvenile cats. They have inherited this trait from the Ocicat.

They are so fond of playing that they even go to the extent of waking up their owners in the morning to get started. These attention-seeking cats do not like to be on their own so give them company always or bring in another pet in your household to keep it entertained.

Care

Owners should channelise the energy of these active cats well by playing with them on a regular basis or giving them certain interesting things to play. Just like Bengal cats they too enjoy walks.

They need minimal grooming as they are light shedders, with their coats being short and smooth. Owners should, however, keep their cats clean and tidy to ensure proper hygiene.

This hardy breed does not suffer from any severe disease as such apart from the common feline ailments. Since they are a new breed not much is known about the genetic diseases, they suffer from. However, they might be prone to Autosomal Recessive Disorder, a gene disorder. It is also reported to suffer from luxating patella (a knee problem). People prone to cat allergies should be aware of these hypoallergenic cats.

Training

Because of their intelligent nature, they can be trained to do different kinds of tactics like fetching the ball or coming when summoned. Like the Bengal cats, they too are comfortable on being taken out on a lead if trained well. Proper socialization and obedience training will help them in develop their personality in a pleasant way.

Feeding

These cats are said to have a good appetite and are to be fed with good quality dry cat food. They should also be given raw or cooked meat quite often to ensure a nutritious diet.

Interesting Facts

  • The Cheetoh cat differs from the Savannah cat in a way that the former cannot jump very high whereas the latter has a great jumping ability, leaping onto the refrigerators, cabinets or top of doors.
  • These cats are characterized by a stealthy and low-shouldered walk similar to the Ocicat as well as other jungle cats.
  • Adapting the wild look of the Bengal cat, the Cheetoh cat is much friendly than the former that is better suited for adults and older children.

Who is it good for?

  • People who stay at home always and are able to give sufficient time to these attention seeking cats.
  • Those who are looking for a low maintenance cat with minimal shedding.
  • Owners who have small children at home.
  • People who do not want to spend much on medical expenses.
  • People looking for a cat with a dog’s temperament.

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