The Domestic Longhair cat is a feline of distinguished lineage, or rather, a delightful lack thereof. Unlike their purebred counterparts, these cats are not the result of selective breeding but rather a charming product of nature’s own pairings. They are, in essence, typical domestic cats, Felis silvestris catus, blessed with a luxurious, flowing coat. It’s important not to confuse them with the American Longhair, a breed with a more traceable ancestry. The Domestic Longhair’s lineage, however, remains a captivating mystery, adding to their unique allure. Despite their mixed-breed heritage, these cats possess traits that make them stand out, earning them the spot as the second most popular housecat in the United States, right behind their equally diverse partners, the Domestic Shorthair.
A Hairy History
Understanding the history of the Domestic Longhair is to delve into the fascinating world of genetics. The gene responsible for long hair in cats is recessive. This means that when a shorthaired cat mates with a longhaired cat, the kittens will typically inherit the shorthaired trait. However, if these shorthaired offspring later mate with each other, there’s a possibility for longhaired kittens to be born.
Natural Selection’s Touch
While the precise origins are speculative, it’s believed that the recessive longhair gene was naturally favored in cat populations residing in colder climates. In regions like northern Russia, Iran, and Turkey, the dense coats of longhaired cats provided essential protection against harsh weather. This phenomenon has a parallel in the wild Pallas’s cat, a reclusive Central Asian feline known for its long, fluffy fur. Early theories suggested a crossbreeding between Pallas cats and domestic cats, but this idea has since been disproven.
From Plague Fighters to Immigrants
While humans would later selectively breed cats for specific traits seen in breeds like the Persian and Russian Blue, the resilient Domestic Longhair continued to thrive. Their presence in Europe was first documented in Italy around the mid-16th century. It’s thought that soldiers returning from the Crusades may have brought these longhaired cats with them. Their presence proved invaluable during the plague outbreaks in Europe in the mid-1600s. Their exceptional mousing skills helped control the rat population, which was a primary vector for the disease-carrying fleas. What was once a cause for religious bans saw these cats re-establish a beneficial relationship with humans. Later, Domestic Longhairs journeyed to America as ship’s cats. Some of these cats may have evolved into the beloved Maine Coon breed, while others continued to contribute to the diverse pool of longhaired felines found today.
Humphrey: A Famous Domestic Longhair
One notable Domestic Longhair was Humphrey, a black and white cat who transitioned from a London street cat to a political ambassador. Discovered as a stray near the British Prime Minister’s residence, 10 Downing Street, at the age of one, Humphrey quickly charmed the elite. He was appointed “Mouser to the Cabinet Office,” a role he apparently excelled at, with the British government covering his food expenses. Humphrey served three prime ministers and was a beloved figure in the press and public eye. After a distinguished life, he retired to a quiet country home, living to the remarkable age of 18.
Domestic Longhair Traits: Uniquely Varied
The mixed ancestry of Domestic Longhair cats results in an incredible spectrum of colors, physical characteristics, and temperaments. The unifying feature among these cats, beyond their descriptive name, is their beautiful, long coat.
A Coat of Many Colors
The long coat of the Domestic Longhair typically ranges from two to six inches in length and can include impressive neck ruffs, ear tufts, and tufts on their paws. These latter tufts may be a remnant from their cold-climate ancestors, acting like snowshoes, or from desert cats who used them for traction on sand. The color variety is astounding, with countless combinations of patterns and hues, complemented by a dazzling array of eye colors, ensuring there’s a Domestic Longhair to suit every preference. Some common colors and patterns include Smoke, Tabby, Patched Tabby, Tuxedo, Calico, Solid Black, Faun, and Patched Faun. This immense variety in appearance is a key reason why these cats are so distinctive.
A “Regular” Body Build
The body types of Domestic Longhairs are significantly influenced by the various breed traits within their diverse genetic makeup. Their faces can be elongated or shortened, and their bodies range from muscular to sleek. Generally, their weight and length fall within the mid-range for all cat breeds. An average Domestic Longhair weighs between 8 to 15 pounds, with a body length of around 18 inches and a tail length of approximately 12 inches.
Personality of Domestic Longhair Cats
One of the most appealing traits of these cats is their balanced temperament; they are neither overly aloof nor excessively needy. Individual personalities can vary, with some being quieter and others more affectionate. This range in personality is as diverse as that found in human friendships. A shared trait among Domestic Longhairs is their inherent hunting instinct. The mousing prowess of domestic cats has long been a reason for their companionship with humans. Consequently, expect your Domestic Longhair, especially when young, to enjoy stalking and playing with interactive toys.
Basic Care
The most significant care requirement for Domestic Longhair cats revolves around their coat. Not all longhaired cats are diligent self-groomers. Unlike some longhaired breeds with less demanding coats, such as the Maine Coon, many of these thick-coated felines require more than just their own grooming efforts to stay mat-free. Regular weekly grooming is essential to keep your longhaired cat free from mats and hairballs. While not always mandatory, daily brushing can greatly benefit your cat’s long fur. If mats do form, seeking the assistance of a professional groomer experienced with felines is advisable to avoid injury to yourself or your pet.
Should you need to bathe your Domestic Longhair kittens, familiarizing yourself with tips on how to bathe a cat can be beneficial, as some kittens can be quite uncooperative. As with any new pet, a visit to the veterinarian shortly after adoption is crucial. Your vet can provide a thorough check-up and guidance on your cat’s nutritional and health needs. For those unsure where to begin, an infographic on a kitty’s first vet visit can be a helpful resource.
Furthermore, it’s recommended that all cats be kept indoors to protect them from potential injuries, illnesses, and contagious pathogens associated with stray animals. Given the strong hunting instincts of Domestic Longhaired cats, keeping them indoors also helps safeguard local wildlife.
Health Issues
Due to their mixed heritage, there are no specific health problems exclusively linked to Domestic Longhair cats. However, they can still be susceptible to general feline health issues such as arthritis, upper respiratory infections, and cancer. Common health concerns reported for the Domestic Longhair include vomiting, upset stomach, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, and loss of appetite. Annual veterinary check-ups are recommended, and more frequent visits if any health issues arise. Even if your cat appears healthy, these regular appointments are vital, as cats are adept at hiding symptoms, and professional examination may be necessary to detect developing problems.
Adopting a Domestic Longhair Cat
It’s estimated that one in ten domestic cats in the U.S. is a Domestic Longhair, meaning there’s a significant population of these fluffy felines. Consequently, local shelters often have many wonderful Domestic Longhair cats available for adoption. The wide variety ensures you can find a feline companion that perfectly suits your lifestyle. Once you’ve found your cat, consider spaying or neutering them. This procedure can extend your cat’s lifespan, protect them from potential health issues, and prevent unwanted litters. You can visit the ASPCA’s website to find a shelter in your area. Additionally, resources are available to guide you through the adoption process and initial kitten care.
*Internal Claims Data, 2020. The information presented in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute or substitute for the advice of your veterinarian.
