CFA standard Scientific name Felis catus Higher classification Cat | FFE standard Rank Breed | |
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Similar Balinese cat, Cymric cat, German Rex, Sokoke, American Bobtail | ||
The Javanese is a breed of domestic cat recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association as a show cat. It is an oriental-type longhair. The breed was developed in North America and its name is derived from the tradition of naming oriental-type cats after south-east Asian places.
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Origin
The Javanese cat is not from Java nor Indonesia. Genetically they are long-haired Oriental. The term "Javanese cat" was coined by a Helen Smith of MerryMews Cattery circa 1950. It is unknown if she had ever traveled to Indonesia. The name is derived from the tradition of using the names of the countries and islands of south-east Asia for Oriental cat breeds.
Classification
According to the Cat Fanciers' Association, the term "Javanese" is classified to distinguish the traditional colors of the Balinese cat from the tabby or "lynx point", red, and tortie point colors. Javanese cats are synonymous with color point long-hair cats, which are Balinese cats with other colors rather than the traditional colors. Though some breeders consider the Oriental breed synonymous to the Balinese breed, they are not the same breed due to being classified as another breed and standard. The primary reason for this classification has been due to the goal of keeping Siamese and Balinese lines pure or distinguished.
Features
The Javanese breed has a long, silky coat in a variety of colors. It is distinct from the native domestic cats of Java which have very short hair, approximately 2 cm long, due to the hot and humid equatorial climate.
Javanese cats are referred to by show cat fanciers as colourpoint cats: showing odd or "rare" colors; such as red or white, or patternation; tabby and tortie.
It is noted as an intelligent cat and tends to vocalize, though often for no apparent reason. They are notably fond of play, jumping and human contact and allegedly depressed if regularly not entertained by humans or other pets. They are reportedly good mouse hunters.
Genetic defects
Common genetic defects are shared with the "Balinese Cat" and the "Siamese Cat". These include: deafness, joint issues, early-onset arthritis, hip displacement and cross-eye.