Colorpoint (Colourpoint) Longhair cat
Javanese cat, Javi cat
The exotic name corresponds very well with the appearance of the Javanese cat, but it has little to do with reality. It turns out that this breed comes from the West, not the Far East. However, we should not be disappointed – the Javanese cat is a beautiful, rare and very loving animal. However, similar to the Siamese cat, it requires a lot of attention and acceptance of its extrovertism.
Classification
The Javanese cat is only recognized by the CFA (Cat Fanciers Association). However, a large part of felinological federations classifies it as a Balinese or Siamese cat breed.
History and origin of the breed
The history of the breed dates back to the 1950s, when Helen Smith and Marion Dorsey created a new Siamese breed program. Based on this breeding program, a Balinese cat was created, which was then crossed with a Colorpoint Shorthair cat.
This is how the Javanese cat came into the world. The CFA recognized the new breed in 1979 (officially in 1987), but many other large federations (such as TICA) classify Javanese cats as Balinese or Siamese. In Europe, this breed is not very well known, because it appears very rarely at shows.
Characteristic
Appearance
Were it not for the long hair and various color variations, the Javanese cat would be indistinguishable from the Siamese cat. Both breeds are characterized by a slender but muscular silhouette, a wedge-shaped head and a long mouth that tapers towards the nose. Large, triangular ears protrude high above the head, although they can be slightly sloping. They are very wide at the base, but taper towards the end. The eyes are rather medium in size but have a beautiful almond shape. The body is supported by long, slim limbs (the hind limbs are longer than the front limbs). The paws are oval in shape and the long tail tapers visibly towards the tip.
The cool, stern appearance is warmed by a long, soft, silky-smooth coat. The tail covers the longest hair, forming a plume.
The fur, as in Siamese cats, may have a colorpoint pattern (i.e. darker fur on the face, limbs and tail), as well as ruddy, solid cream, tortoiseshell, lynx point, blue, lilac, striped, etc. Eyes, regardless of the color of the coat are always deep, vivid blue.
Temperament
The Javanese cat is very similar to the Siamese cat in character. It loves the company of people. It wants to be present in the daily activities of its owners, observing almost their every move. It feels most comfortable on a person’s lap, but at night, it will find a place in a bed. It is possible that the owner’s pillow will be its favorite place during sleep.
During the day, this cat often wanders underfoot, which is why it may not be a very suitable companion for people who walk on crutches or a cane.
The Javanese cat often talks with its guardians, but not as fiercely and loudly as the Siamese cat. However, it is certainly a stubborn cat, knowing what it wants at the moment. So if it wants to achieve its goal, it will let us know and will not give up. It can be just as talkative in the presence of guests and friends of the house.
Learning and fun
Javanese cat loves fun, so it cannot be denied high intelligence, agility and condition. Since its brain is working at full capacity, it requires constant stimulation through play and puzzles. Do not be surprised if you see your cat in a tall tree – it is helped by a strong, muscular figure and long hind limbs.
It is also included among the cats willing to learn tricks and walking on a leash (of course, this is an individual trait – not every Javanese cat will jump for joy at the thought of a walk on a leash :)).
So in order to avoid a small home disaster in the form of unrolled rolls of toilet paper, a formatted laptop or torn curtains, it is better to provide some entertainment for the Javanese cat while the owners are away.
It should also be remembered that the Javanese cat, as a breed strongly socialized and eager to be active, cannot be left alone for too long. So, if you have an absorbing job or passion, provide your Javanese cat with a friend – another cat or dog. However, if you feel that you will not be able to raise this crazy and energetic animal, think about whether this cat will be happy with you.
A cat is not a toy – apart from having a nice appearance, it also has needs and feelings that we cannot take lightly.
Health condition
Within the breed, there are diseases occurring in Balinese and Siamese cats, including genetic defects such as:
- deafness
- arthritis
- convergent strabismus
- displacement of the hip joint
Detailed data / dimensions (size)
Javanese cat
- Weight: 2.2-4.5 kg (5 – 10 lb)
- Height at the withers: up to 30 cm (11.8 in)
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
Javanese cat – interesting facts
- Although it is called a Javanese cat, it is not from Java. Giving it this name was rather a tribute to the island close to Bali, from which the ancestors of the Javanese breed – Balinese cats – got their name (both mentioned breeds come from the USA though).
- There is a view that a Javanese cat that does not have the regular company of other creatures may have symptoms of depression.
- The Javanese cat is great at hunting mice.
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