Today it’s all about mixed breed cats! These lovable cats have lots to offer, but how much do you know about them? In this blog, we’ll be giving mixed breed cats the recognition they deserve and telling you everything there is to know.
What is a Mixed Breed Cat?
Mixed-breed refers to any cat that is a crossbreed or non-pedigree, and is the most common type of domestic cat in the world. They don’t belong to any specific breed, but that doesn’t make them any less special!
Due to their mixed ancestry, mixed breed cats can have a combination of traits from different breeds, which makes them full of surprises! Often, they are not just a mix of a mother cat of one breed and a father cat of another, but in fact a true mixture of no particular breed.
This means that there may be thousands of different types of mixed breed cats, as some cats can be mixed with multiple types of breeds at once. This can make it very difficult to keep track of them all!
What to Expect from Your Mixed Breed Cat
Mixed breed cats don't all fit into one category and come in many variations of sizes, colours, and patterns. Their looks and personalities depend on their genetics from their parents, who may very well also be a mixed breed, making each one truly unique!
A mixed breed cat’s temperament is also dependent on their early experiences and the environment they grow up in. If you’ve recently adopted a mixed breed cat (or any other breed really!), it’s a good idea to take them to be checked at the vet as their genetic background and history could very well be unknown.
With that in mind, surprisingly, mixed-breed cats are generally thought to be healthier and less prone to genetic diseases when compared to pedigree cats. This is due to their hybrid strength from their genetic diversity, which can help them have a longer life span.
Tips about Caring for a Mixed Breed Cat
As with all cats, it’s important that your mixed breed cat has everything they need to live a happy and healthy life. Just bear in mind that every mixed breed cat is unique, and that you’ll need to understand their characteristics to truly know what they do or don’t like. For example, some mixed breed cats can be very affectionate while others might be more independent.
This being said, there are some universal tips that apply to all mixed breed cats. We’ve put together some general advice to help you care for your cat:
- Balanced diet—Provide a diet that meets your cat’s nutritional needs and speak to your vet to see what’s best for them.
- Regular health checks—Although mixed breed cats are thought to be less prone to genetic conditions, it’s important to have frequent vet check-ups to monitor their health.
- Mental and physical stimulation—This is important for all cats. By making sure playtime is in your cat’s daily routine, it can give them some mental and physical exercise. Having their food in different feeders can also bring some extra brain and physical exercise into their routine.
- Comfortable environment—Create a safe space where your cat feels comfortable, and make sure there are enough elevated spots for them to rest and hide. To enhance the serenity in their environment further, you can use FELIWAY Optimum to provide them with maximum comfort.
- Socialization—Enabling your mixed breed cat to socialize with different people and pets from an early stage can help them become well-adjusted and less timid.
- Quality time—Make sure your cat is getting enough interaction with you so you can get to know them better. It’s important to learn about their body language to help you understand what they are trying to tell you and develop your bond.
Famous Mixed Breed Cats
These mixed breed cats have even made a global impression! Some of these famous cats have featured in blockbuster films, and others you might have even seen for yourself. These famous mixed-breed cats include:
- Bob the Street Cat—Known for his heartwarming story with his owner, James Bowen, which was turned into a book and a film.
- Orangey—She appeared in Breakfast at Tiffany’s and won 2 PATSY awards.
- Larry the Cat—The Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office at 10 Downing Street, London.
- Vito’s cat in ‘The Godfather’—This cat was a stray found on the Paramount lot that was given to Marlon Brando.
- Kedi—A Turkish documentary that showcases the personalities of stray cats in Istanbul.