This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS. Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
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Aegean cats were not considered a breed until the 1990s, even though it is one of the oldest breeds in the world. The breed originates in Greece, and though they are not common in other parts of the world, this breed is common in the Aegean isles. To identify an Aegean cat, look for a semi-long hair coat with two or three colors and almond-shaped eyes. You should also notice if it loves water and is social.
Steps
Identifying Physical Characteristics
Notice a semi-long hair coat. Aegean cats have longer hair that is described as brushy. The hair will be longer during the winter. They will shed during the spring and summer, which will make them look like a shorter-haired cat. They will shed all year if they live inside.[1]- The tail is thick and bushy. When they shed their hair, the tail will remain thick and bushy.
Look for two or three colors. The coat of an Aegean cat is multicolored. Generally, they have two or three distinct colors in their coat. The main color is always white, and usually covers more of the body than the other colors. The other colors may be cream, blue, black, or red.[2]- This breed may or may not have tabby stripes.
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Expect a medium, lean build. Aegean cats are medium in size. They have lean and muscular bodies with an athletic build. They generally weigh between nine and ten pounds. They have a long body and tail.[3]- Their athletic build makes them good at catching fish with their paws and hunting mice.
Examine the ears and paws. The ears of an Aegean cat are distinct. They are wide at the base and widely set on the head. The ears also have rounded tips. The paws of the breed are typically rounder, and their legs are strong.
Study the eyes. An Aegean cat's eyes are wide and almond-shaped, and they tip up slightly. The color of their striking eyes may be any shade of green, but they may also have shades of yellow or blue in the green.- The head is a broad shape.
- 6Get a DNA test. You can order DNA tests online or through your vet to help you determine your cat's lineage. Most of these tests will require you to swab the inside of your cat's cheek using a sterile swab included in the kit. The sample is then sent to a lab, which can analyze your cat's ancestry.
- Look for a pet DNA lab that has a wide database. Make sure the have Aegean cat DNA on file before you purchase from them. This will help you get the most accurate results.
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Recognizing Behavioral Characteristics
Determine if it is social. Aegean cats are social and friendly cats. They love to be around people and can be quite affectionate. The breed is good around children, cats, and dogs.[4]- These cats love to talk and will sit and socialize with you.
Expect a cat that loves water. Aegean cats are from the Greek islands, and they often hang out at the docks and on fishing boats. They will also fish for food themselves. Due to this natural habitat, this breed loves the water. You can identify an Aegean cat by their enthusiasm for playing in water. They are not afraid or resistant to water.- Aegean cats are good for people who like to be around water or fish and want a feline companion.
Look for hunting tendencies. Aegean cats are natural hunters. They love to explore, climb, and be active, and their natural athletic build makes them good hunters. If you have an Aegean cat, you notice hunting and predator-like movements.- Aegean cats are known for hunting mice.
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Finding an Aegean Cat
Learn about the breed. Aegean cats are considered one of the oldest domesticated breeds in the world. They get their name from their origin on the Aegean islands of Greece. The breed is also one of the few natural breeds, meaning that humans didn't have any part in making the breed.- This breed is also considered one of the healthiest breeds without any genetic diseases.
Adopt an Aegean cat from Greece. Finding Aegean cats can be difficult. The easiest way to get one is to go to Greece and adopt one there. They are a relatively rare breed in the rest of the world. Since they are a natural breed, there are not many breeders who breed Aegean cats.[5]- If you bring a pet into a country from Greece, you will need to have an International Health Certificate from a veterinarian. You will also need to get them a rabies vaccine. If you are interested in bringing a cat into your country from Greece, talk to your vet about what your state laws are.
Search online. If you want to search for an Aegean cat, you can search online. You may find a breeder in your area or country, but make sure you find a reputable breeder. You may ask your veterinarian or rescue organizations for recommendations.[6]- You may also try looking for an Aegean cat through pet adoption websites. Just remember to double check that the characteristics to ensure the cat is an Aegean. Some people may try to claim their cat is an Aegean when it is not. Remember, these cats are rare in most places in the world.
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Expert Q&A
References
- ↑ http://www.ofcats.com/2008/06/aegean.html
- ↑ http://www.dogalize.com/2017/03/cat-breeds-aegean-cat-characteristics-personality/
- ↑ http://www.catbreedselector.com/aegean-cat.asp
- ↑ http://www.catbreedselector.com/aegean-cat.asp
- ↑ http://www.vetstreet.com/cats/aegean-cat#finding
- ↑ http://www.vetstreet.com/cats/aegean-cat#finding
About this article
To identify an Aegean cat, look for a coat that's longer in the winter and shorter during the spring and summer. Additionally, notice if its coat is primarily white with cream, black, or red markings. You can also expect the cat to have a muscular build and weigh between 9 and 10 pounds. Finally, make sure to study your cat's face, since Aegean cats have ears that are wide at the base, widely set apart, and rounded at the tips. You can also identify an Aegean by its affinity for water or strong hunting instincts. For more tips from our Veterinary co-author, like how to recognize the behavioral characteristics of an Aegean cat, keep reading!
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"This article sums up our cat Buddy. He fishes for the minnows while laying in the creek. He talks to us. Actually tells us what he wants. Moles and mice no longer exist here. Green almond shaped eyes. It's like you wrote this just for us. Wow!"..." more
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