Gray cats: character and subtleties of grooming

Cats of gray, or rather, blue, traditionally attract the attention of humans. This color with esoteric, mysterious plaque is associated with moonlight silver. Restrained manners of the animal, a mysterious character and look, extraordinary dignity, grace and calm - such an image leaves few indifferent. Always and everywhere cats were treated with soul and reverence. These animals were greeted in the palaces of kings, and in the huts of commoners. Being excellent rodent hunters, they not only delighted the eye and soul, but also brought many benefits.

Her Majesty Genetics, bizarrely combining dominant and recessive genes, brings us many surprises. Such a pleasant surprise is gray, with various shades, the color of cats.In our case, the dominant gene responsible for black and white color stimulates the formation of gray color in animals.

Actually, the amount of black pigment is the same for gray and darker cats. The difference lies in the specific distribution of the pigment. So, in cats with black color, the pigmentation of the hairs is uniform, but in gray, the coloring elements are concentrated in the core of the hair. Refracting through the outer layer of the hair, the light gets a gray tint at the exit.

Occasionally, a gene mutation occurs when the ends of the hair get white, while the black pigment is concentrated in the lower part of the hair. The reverse combinations are not excluded - the roots receive white pigmentation, and on top of the hair - black. Such a cover is associated with hoarfrost and looks unusually solemn.

In a professional environment, the color of wool with gray shades is called blue, and sometimes blue.Breeders of many countries have long tried to get a breed with a completely gray color and a blue tint. A feature of this color is the lack of red (red) pigment. But for gray or blue color, warm shades are also characteristic, which are observed in animals with a dominant “red” gene. This color is called purple.

Color details are significant. So, the smoky color is associated with harmony, mutual understanding and peace. The “minke” style is characteristic of adventurers who bring change in the measured life of the master. Oddly enough, the associative series corresponding to the color of the pet often becomes real, embodied in the nature and behavior of animals. It is likely that the future, conservatively minded owner, should not take the striped robber into the house.

Gray cat pets resemble dark cardinals - a calm, balanced character, demonstrated majestically and with dignity. They do not tolerate familiarity and long active games - “it’s a matter of time, but an hour of fun”. They are somewhat ironic and condescending. Feeling the love of the owner, many forgive him. But even if they decide on revenge, it will be extremely unexpected and insidious, since such an action is planned in detail, thoughtfully and for a long time.

The element of gray pets is comfort and measured, solid life. Children, for obvious reasons, are of little interest to them. These animals are intellectuals, contemplators and observers from the aristocracy. Unobtrusive, gentle leaders, often prone to a worthy retreat, more like a condescending disregard. Just to maintain their reputation and calm being.

Cats with a blue color are more aristocratic, this feature manifests itself in them both externally and in behavior. They present themselves independently and proudly, like aristocrats of blood. From a young age, their behavior is as if there is no other status, except as the "owner" of the house. Since childhood, demonstrating calm and nobleness, kittens set the appropriate standard of behavior, which they never change. Notrarely, but briefly, they have playfulness, but there are also closed natures who constantly observe a certain distance set by them.

A solid blue color is characteristic of curious intellectuals, cats devoted to the owner. They like to sleep in the arms of the owner or relax nearby in the afternoon wake. But loneliness doesn’t frighten them either - they will always find something to their liking, not allowing leprosy, adequately preserving their image. Upon returning home, you will not find any mess - Skod is not their destiny.

Esoterics is in some way close to psychology. Therefore, referring to the fact that signs and beliefs, having their roots in observation and folk memory, reflect certain traits of the nature of animals, we give a few examples:

• gray cats bring material prosperity - “money talisman”;
• the cat is constantly sleeping on his back - in the future, you will not live in poverty;
• the cat curled up in a ball and covered its nose - to bad weather;
• “Gray cat is a happy turn”, “gray cat is a happy path”;
• a gray cat attracts grooms to the house of an unmarried girl - “gray cat - love spell”;
• blue cats contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular and neurological diseases (a kind of family doctor);
• green-eyed gray-haired cat with its aura provides protection of the house from adversity;
• blue animals have a beneficial effect on pregnant women and the fetus, eliminating nervous breakdowns and disorders;
• a gray cat in the house - luck though;
• cats with a gray color - a charm against damage and the evil eye;
• green-eyed, gray cats - excellent healers.

It is noteworthy that all kittens are born with blue eyes. The kitten acquires its own, “native”, formed at the genetic level, eye color at 3 or 4 months of life. Bright and saturated shades are characteristic of the most thoroughbred representatives.

The degree of correspondence of eye color to a specific color is regulated by the rules of the exhibitions. For example, a Brit with a black solid color and green eyes will be a marriage, but a green-eyed oriental cat is the norm. Some breeds have only one eye color. These are Russian blue, which can only have green eyes.

In accordance with the established color codes, eye color is also provided - blue, green and yellow. Different colors may be in cats with acromilanic color, which is characterized by partial albinism.

Green-eyed is inherent in the following varieties of blue and smoky animals:

• caramel;
• particolor;
• tabby
• solid;
• tortoiseshell.

Connoisseurs know that with hundreds of different pedigree organizations only 3 “head” clubs where purebred cats are registered:

• World FIFe - International Federation - recognizes 42 breeds;
• European WCF - World Federation - recognizes 70 breeds;
• American CFA - Association of Cat Lovers - Recognizes 40 breeds.

The owners of the blue or smoky “robe” are, for example, breeds:

• Persian
• Russian blue (long-haired version - Nibelung)
• American Curl
• fluffy Turkish Angora;
• British Longhair;
• Maine Coon;
• Siberian
• Exotic
• Kuril Longhair Bobtail;
• la perm longhair;
• American Longhair Bobtail;
• pixibob long-haired;
• Somali.

Below are the characteristics of some breeds recognized by one or another international club.

Persian cats are significantly different from relatives. The build is usually medium-large. The weight of males is up to 8 kg, females - up to 4 kg. The head and shape of the muzzle are divided into two types - the classic (short, slightly upturned nose); extreme (flattened, slightly depressed muzzle with snub nose). The coat is soft; it can be either short or long. The eyes are oval, the color varies in a wide range - from blue to orange.

The Persian character is not malicious, masterful. The breed is completely domestic, not adapted to life in the wild. Animals are moderately playful, friends with children. They get used to the owner tightly, choosing only one object of adoration for themselves.

The Persian line (recognized by WCF, CFA) is a champion in varieties and length of wool (up to 20 cm). Fluffy Persians are represented by several subspecies:

• Pyuters (Tin Persian);
• tortie Persian;
• Persian Tabby
• bluish-cream Persian.

The indicated subspecies are in many respects similar to each other and can be easily confused with each other.

Nibelung, with the poetic translation of “child of the fog”, fully justifying its appearance. Animals are medium in size, with a moderately developed muscle system. Weight - up to 7 kg. The type is active, graceful. The cover is silvery, soft, thick, silky-delicate.

The nature is balanced, friendly, sociable. Faithful monogamous, unobtrusive and moderately playful. The eyes are often green, but sometimes amber.

The breed is recognized by the WCF. This is an unusual animal with inverted elven ears, similar to miniature horns. The coat is dense, silky. Curls are friendly, relatively unpretentious and independent. Perfectly adapt to new conditions, unique gamers even at a respectable age. Amaze with their harmonious physique with a perfectly developed muscular system. Weight - up to 5 kg.

Kittens are born with straight ears, which gradually fold as they grow older. Their ears add up to minutes of severe stress, with fear. "Companion cat" - so often it is called because of the complaisant and friendly mood. The breed is unobtrusive, accommodating and balanced. Eye color in a significant color range. Connoisseurs of the breed are ready to pay up to 20,000 rubles for it.

A breed with an ancient, eventful history associated with extinction and new birth. The slender and slightly elongated body of the animal is striking in its flexibility, plasticity and grace. Weight - up to 5 kg. It has a special, soft and silky coat. Range of colors - from white to gray. Unique wool and elongated, fluffy tail - a real decoration of the Angora.

To their liking, they are sociable and balanced, moderately playful, love height, are strongly attached to the owner. Willingly communicate with children. Appreciate attention and affectionate attitude. The breed is easily trained in various tricks, it is able to amaze the viewer with walking on its hind legs, the correct reactions to the commands “voice” and “aport”.

Often this is an unusual combination of bright green and rich blue shades. The breed is extremely popular in the world. Gray and smoky Angora - a unique and desirable decoration in the house. The word "gray" in this case loses its basic meaning and takes on a new one - a miracle!

Small size, grace, fragility and harmonious proportions of the body. The breed is energetic, agile and extremely curious. Somalis are easy to train, quickly remembering the necessary commands. They love to be in the spotlight, wonderful actors, obedient and unobtrusive. They remain playful even in adulthood.

Somalis are real pirates and it is impossible to get bored with them. Of the existing colors, the blue, smoky-blue zonar coat with light beige or cream shades at the base is popular. The tip of the nose is brownish. Funny and funny animal.

A few words about the breeds that deserve special attention.

• British Longhair (recognized by WCF, CFA) - one of the subspecies of the native British cat. An animal with a rich and long history. It has an ideal family character.

• Maine Coon (recognized by WCF, CFA) - The largest in the family of feline. In adulthood, it reaches a weight of up to 10 kg (muscle mass). Serious cat, with a wild appearance and tassels on the ears.

• Siberian (recognized by WCF, CFA) - A breed with a long history and extremely strong gene pool. The breed is family, not loving to mess around. Good hunters, fearless and curious.

• Exotic (recognized by WCF, CFA) - A popular breed with huge eyes and a slightly flattened nose. A separate type of Persian breed.

• Kuril Longhair Bobtail (recognized by FIFe). Life in severe climatic conditions, in limited territories, predetermined the solid and persistent nature of animals. The holder of a hare tail and an unusual body shape is a national breed of Russia.

• La Perm Longhair (CFA recognized) - breed with curly hair. A peculiar gift of nature, reminiscent of a shaggy lamb. Unusual and beautiful animal.

• American Longhair Bobtail (CFA Recognized) - impressive size, good-natured, tailless animal. He does not like loneliness, outgoing, including with children.

• Pixibob Longhair (Short-Tailed Elf) - The breed of short-legged cats with tassels on the ears. Tender, friendly and patient creatures. They love movement, in the game they are unusually resourceful and enterprising.

The excellent immunity of gray cats does not exempt from the need for constant care for the animal.Long hair requires careful and thorough care. It is important to monitor the cleanliness of the animal’s butt, rinse it as soon as necessary.

When combing long hair, you can use starch, previously lightly sprinkling them with wool. It helps to comb tangled hair. Hind limbs, tummy and tail require special attention.

A mandatory annual visit to the veterinarian is shown, where the mouth, teeth and gums of the pet will be examined. It will not be superfluous to independently examine the mouth for the detection of wounds and broken teeth.

Cats need to brush their teeth. It is advisable to start such a procedure from an early age - the animal gets used to it, and further it will not be difficult to carry out the procedure. Initially resorted to elementary mechanical cleaning with a piece of bandage. After some time, apply a special brush and cat paste.

It is necessary to bathe long-haired cats 1-2 times a month, using a special emollient shampoo and lotion so that the coat retains its silkiness.

After bathing the animal, it is necessary to clean his ears using special means, for example, ProVET, TRIXIE Ear Care, Nutri-Vet Ear Cleanse, Dr. Clauders Ohrenpflege. However, boric alcohol and mineral oils may be used. From the auricle, dirt is removed with a swab without touching the auditory canal. After that, the muzzle is wiped with a swab of warm water to the pet.

It is necessary to wash the animal daily, since saliva negatively affects the appearance of the cover, and the dirt accumulated in the eyes can lead to a number of eye diseases (conjunctivitis, mycoplasmosis, epiphora, lacrimation, and the third eyelid). The signs of these diseases and their treatment methods are important to know.

The claws of the animal are trimmed carefully and accurately. At the same time, in order not to damage the foot, the very extreme part of the claw is cut off. During the procedure, it is advisable to gently communicate with the cat.

Any unique pet hair loses its quality without proper care. For all its aristocracy and independence, your pet is largely up to you. Love, affection and care will return to you a hundredfold, wonderful mood and good luck.

It is not recommended to cut cats, since such an operation can harm the animal:

• the structure of the hairs can change - become thin and brittle;
• hair growth may stop;
• lead to alopecia - pathological hair loss.

About the British gray cat breed, see the video below.