Sokoke: description of the breed of cats, content features and choice of nicknames
Today, many people have pets. The most common are cats and dogs. People choose cats because they are very affectionate and at the same time independent animals. Their diversity is amazing, in our time, with great desire, you can even get wild breed. Pets are our friends who will never let us get bored. Many give birth to pets, so that later they earn money on breeding thoroughbred individuals.
Origin history
Sokoke is a unique cat breed. This species takes all its origins in Kenya. So, in 1978, a resident of England, Jenny Slater, found a cat with kittens on her plantation. They were so cute, with an amazing color that she could not pass by and took them home.
Later, her friend decided to take 2 kittens to Denmark. From that moment, the most active distribution of the breed began. And in 1992, the state of Denmark approved the Sokoke cat breed (sometimes they are also called African Shorthair). The descendants were referred to as kazonzo, which means "similar to the bark of a tree." Their ancestors are indigenous Kenyan cats and feral domestic cats.
An interesting fact is that the breed was not bred by breeders, but by nature itself. They were never deliberately crossed with other species.
The international organization for breeding cats - FIFE - changed its name to Soukok, but most often it is still called - Sokoka. In the modern world there are about 100 individuals.
Breed description
Cats are characterized by average sizes, males are predominantly larger. Weight can vary from 3 to 5 kilograms. We can say that the representatives of this breed are long-lived, since they live about 13-15 years, and some even longer.
In shape, the head resembles a wedge, but on a strong neck. It is elongated, in comparison with the body it seems small and flat. Cheekbones are quite expressive, which emphasizes the muzzle of the individual. The ears are large, with numerous tassels on them. The deep and expressive eyes fascinate many cat lovers. Colors are different: from amber to greenish.
The breed itself is quite large, with a long body and legs. The muscles are very well developed. The hind legs are longer than the front, which creates the illusion that the cat is on tiptoe. The tail is of medium length and tapers towards the end.
The coloring standard is considered marble tabby. In a color palette, it can start with light shades of brown and end with dark brown. Although the coat is very short, almost without undercoat, a slight overflow can be seen in the light. Very rarely found individuals with unusually beautiful snow color. Strips in the form of spirals and half rings are located throughout the body.
Distinctive signs of color:
- a necklace around the neck, optionally fused;
- the tip of the tail is always black;
- butterfly pattern on the back;
- on the forehead you can see the intermittently drawn letter "M";
- a bullish eye pattern is visible on its side.
Character
First of all, this breed is extremely active and energetic. They never sit still and are ready to jump, run all day. This trait was transmitted from their ancient wild ancestors. People who have experience breeding cats say it is advisable to have Sokoke in private homes with a large free space.
In the backyard it will be possible to construct a playground, and then the animal will not tear the wallpaper and spoil the furniture in the house.
In addition to the foregoing, representatives of the breed are very sociable creatures, but at the same time willful and independent. They will not sit in their arms for a long time or annoy the owner - they can very well organize the game themselves. An important feature must not be missed: cats become attached to people and the environment, therefore they move very painfully. Do not be afraid for the child: they are always restrained and will never offend children.
The positive qualities include the mind and smartness. Cats can be trained quickly. They are very curious and always explore something new. Sokoke quickly finds contact with other animals, such as dogs, which undoubtedly can be attributed to the pluses. Pets have a great time at home while the owners are at work. And in the evening they joyfully meet them, showing affection for them.
Care and care
The breed is very unpretentious. What about the wool, it is quite short and does not require special care - it will be sufficient to comb out dead hair with a special brush once a week. The best option would be a natural hair comb: it promotes good blood circulation throughout the body.
Bathing is a favorite activity of cats of this species. If you do not wash them for a long time, then if they wish, they themselves will find a container of water. Wash should not be more than 1 time per month. Care for your ears and eyes is to wipe quickly contaminated areas with a moistened cotton pad or napkin every day or every other day.
The pet will be grateful if you take it with you for a walk, but do not refuse fences so that the cat does not accidentally run away. But it is important to know that it is dangerous to walk your pet in winter. Due to the hot climate in Africa, their homeland, cats can catch a cold quickly in the winter. Remember to brush your mouth to prevent gum disease. A regular visit to the veterinary clinic is required to keep the cat healthy and alert.
Diet is also a very important component of a happy future cat.
It is important that it is balanced and contains all the necessary elements. Dry as well as natural food is suitable for feeding.Do not forget that the products must be fresh.
Health
Cats are distinguished by good health and immunity, but they also often get sick. Very often they suffer from nervous disorders that are inherited. During the breeding season, when it comes to mating, the cat may convulse or run around the house in panic, not recognizing the owner. If this happened, then do not panic. You should try to reassure the pet. If it doesn’t work, then call your veterinarian.
Many individuals are prone to meningitis. Meningitis is an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. To maintain normal heart and blood vessels, taurine and group E vitamins should be added to the diet. This will help maintain immunity. Also, animals can be disturbed by worms, pain in the ears and plague. A possible source may be contact with individuals of another breed, if problems arise - limit the circle of communication.
Sokoke is very sensitive to the temperature around, so it's best to keep them at home under controlled conditions.
When choosing a kitten, you should pay attention to his parents, or rather, their behavior.
Kittens
The price in rubles varies from 30,000 to 60,000 rubles. Some sell an amazing breed for a space sum of 100,000 rubles. In this case, everything is individual. Every aspect is important, from the color to the pedigree. When buying, you should carefully consider both the kitten and its parents, ask the seller various questions and get acquainted with the documents - in our time there are many scammers who want to cash in on gullible customers.
In our country so far there are not very many nurseries, but in large cities you will definitely find them. In Moscow there is a nursery that specializes specifically in the Sokoke breed. Kittens come there mainly from the USA, but sometimes from other European countries to support the development of the breed in different countries.
The selection of a nickname should be taken with all responsibility, so that it matches the character and temperament of the pet. Nicknames are suitable for kittens: Perseus, Peach, Sim or Siam.
More about cats of the Sokok breed, see the video below.