California Spangled
Also known as: Spangle
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- United States ( California )
- Other names
- Spangle
About the California Spangled
The California Spangled is a cat breed, originating from California, USA. Characterized by distinctive markings, this breed features a unique coat pattern.
Overview
The California Spangled Cat is an experimental breed of cat with markings that resemble the cheetah or leopard created by Paul Casey.
History
Paul Casey was inspired to create the breed from a conversation he had with Louis Leakey . In relation to the death of a leopard by poachers Casey and Leakey discussed how people would be more likely to support conservation efforts if they had a cat that resembled a leopard. Casey started with breeding a female Traditional Siamese to a Turkish Angora . Later breeds added to the bloodline were the British Shorthair , American Shorthair , Manx , and Abyssinian . Later on moggies from Malaysia and Egypt were added to the gene pool. By 1985 the look of the breed had been established and managed to form a breed club, the California Spangled Cat Association. Casey advertised his breed in the Neiman-Marcus catalog which generated controversy from both fanciers and animal rights activists, the latter due to Neiman-Marcus catalog advertising animal coats. The widespread publicity worked in Casey''s favour and hundreds of people inquired about the breed. Despite the publicity the breeds numbers progressed slowly due to most cats being sold. In 1994 a California Sprangled won best in show at a Paris fancier competition. In 2003 only around 200 California Sprangled Cats were recorded to exist.
Appearance
The California Sprangled''s markings are similar to that of a leopard or cheetah with well defined spots and musculature. The spots may be round, square, triangular, and oval. Eyelet, fish scale, and crescent spots are disallowed.
Recognition
The California Sprangled has experimental recognition with both the American Cat Association (ACA) and The International Cat Association (TICA).
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the California Spangled?
The California Spangled Cat is a medium-sized breed with a muscular build and a short, smooth coat. They have distinctive markings resembling those of a cheetah or leopard, with a base color of brown or gray and darker spots or rosettes. Their eyes are typically gold or copper in color.
Is the California Spangled a good family cat?
As an experimental breed, there is limited information available about the California Spangled's temperament. However, generally, cats with a similar build and coat type tend to be active, playful, and affectionate. With proper socialization, they may make suitable family pets for families with older children.
What health problems do California Spangleds have?
Due to the limited availability of breed-specific health information, it's essential to work with a reputable breeder who health tests their cats. Generally, domestic shorthairs and other short-haired breeds can be prone to health issues such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and patellar luxation. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify potential problems early on.
How much does a California Spangled kitten cost?
The cost of a California Spangled kitten can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. As an experimental breed, prices may be higher due to the limited availability of breeding stock. On average, expect to pay between $500 to $2,000 for a pet-quality kitten.