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Singapura

Singapura

Singapura is the Malaysian word for Singapore. The streets of Singapore are the origin of this breed. They are nature's combination of both the ticked coat pattern and the dark brown color, both of which are indigenous to South East Asia. The breed was brought into the U.S. in the early 1970s by Hal and Tommy Meadow, expatriates moving home. Early Singapura breeders quickly went to work to establish purebred characteristics such as breeding true, uniformity of appearance, and above all, health and disposition.

The Singapura's disposition is that of a "pesky people cat," curious, playful but nondestructive cat that insists on helping you with everything. They are very intelligent and interactive with people and remain so even into old age. Disposition is one of their most endearing attributes. If you want a cat geared to "four on the floor," don't consider owning a Singapura. They enjoy being carried around in your arms.

The Singapura is smaller than the average shorthaired cat with noticeably large eyes and ears. On first impression, you might think you were looking at some new color of Abyssinian. The pattern is nearly the same but on closer inspection you will note that the only other similarity is the large ears, everything else is different. The light beige coloring is unique and is similar to cougars. The tail is normal length, the feet are very small, the body is smaller, of a medium length and muscular. Eyes may be hazel, green or yellow but mature eye color is not predicable in kittens. Many veterinarians seeing a Singapura for the first time are apt to think something might be wrong with the kitten since it is so small. The Singapura is slow to develop and will not attain its full size until about 15 to 24 months of age.

A pet quality cat will usually have cosmetic faults that make it unsuitable for showing or breeding. Some of the most common faults are head length (too long), eyes too close together, visible or non-visible tail faults, lack of complete nose-liner (the dark line around the nose leather), and markings on the outside of the front legs which should be clear of any markings. Additionally, only a limited number of male cats can be used in the breeding programs so only the best male kittens are retained for breeding. Regardless of the reason for a Singapura to be offered as a pet, you will find this cat's intelligence, playfulness and unique appearance captivating from the first time you meet one.

Text: Nicki Ruetz (with some changes by Linda) Copyright © 1995-2003 The Cat Fanciers' Association


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