European cat breeds are among the most common, that's why they are called "house cats". The European cat breed is very appreciated as it has developed through natural means of mating, without selection or mating with cats of "noble" breeds. It is said that the origins of these cats date from ancient times, existing the possibly that they have been brought in Europe from Egypt, by the Romans, and the first who showed interest for these house cats were the Finns. They aimed at mating the most beautiful specimens, wishing to obtain a robust cat with short hair and a round head.
The European cat breed is spread in all countries of the continent, and since 1940 it has been presented in exhibitions. The qualities of this breed were assessed by the Brit short-haired standard. Great Britain has had an essential role in developing this breed, British breeders selecting street cats or from people's courts. Separation from British was possible only in 1982, year when there were banned the mating with this breed. But British people used to mate the house cat not only with British breed but also the Persian. The differences between pure European cats with Persian cat bree were evident in exhibitions. It was a fresh start for European cat breed as it began to differentiate through its own characteristics and more than that through uniqueness.
It was recognized by the Federation Internationale Feline (FIFe) in the early '80s as an international race, Scandinavians having an important role in this action. This is why at that time only Scandinavian cats have been presented in exhibitions with European name.
The character of European cat breeds
Regarding the qualities of the character of these wonderful feline species there is no doubt. They are natural, just as every moment they reveal themselves. They are very intelligent, active, playful, friendly and affectionate. European cat breeds react very well to everything around them and can easily be noisy. The cat may become withdrawn and somewhat violent if it feels threatened or does not feel at ease. The strength of European cat breed is the great capacity of adaptation. These cats are very adaptable to any environment and are great for family life because they are very sociable, grateful, affectionate and devoted towards their masters. Being playful, they get along extremely well with children, but it is essential for their allocated space to be large. They are ideal for apartment life as they can stay alone and conduct themselves well during the hours they are waiting for owners to return home. Moreover, they can get along perfectly with other pets, be them cats or even dogs. However, even if they are so gentle and cute, each cat has a very strong personality, so you should respect these animals just as they show their respect and devotion to their master.
The appearance of the European cat breed
European cat breed is a medium to large sized cat, with a compact and muscular body, well proportioned. The head is large and the face is elongated. The skull and forehead are slightly rounded, while the cheeks are high. Ears are medium sized and rounded at the tips and are covered with hair, even clumps. The eyes are large and round, slightly sloping, being very clear and expressive, and colors may vary between green, orange and blue. The neck is muscular and the tail is thick at the base and thinner at the top. The limbs are strong and of medium length. The fur is short, thick and shiny, requiring only weekly brushing. Its colors are different. In exhibitions there are supported copies of European cat breeds that have white fur, or the following color varieties:
– black/blue/red/cream-colored;
– black/striped blue;
– variegated blue / spotted blue-silver .
European cat breeds are rarely represented within exhibitions, because they are not considered even "a breed". Participation in exhibitions does not cost much and does not require great efforts, so owners of European cats can participate in European cats in such exhibitions.
How do we take care of European cat breeds?
Cats of this breed are not at all pretentious. They have a very strong immune system, thus are much healthier than other breeds of cats. They are strong and very resilient, adapting to any type of environment. European cats do not suffer from genetic diseases and do not get sick. The calving is very easy. They are very playful and do not require special attention. The fur of European cats should be neat so once a week you should brush it, therefore it will not let unwanted hair inside your home.
So if you are owners of a European cat breed, reward it with love because in turn, it will prove to you, for certain, daily dedication. If you want a cat, do not hesitate to adopt or buy one of this breed. Surely you will not regret it because they are great friends.