Cat Breeds 101: Singapura – Image To Repin / Share
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Recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the smallest breed of feline, the Singapura is also considered to be one of the rarest breeds of cats in the world.
There is an ongoing controversy surrounding the real origin of the Singapura breed. It is widely believed that these felines originated from three “drain” cats from Singapore which were imported to the US in 1971. In 1982, the Singapura breed was officially registered by the Cat Fancier’s Association. Six years later, the breed received its championship status. [1]
Despite their small size, Singapura cats are known to possess muscular bodies. They also have short and fine-textured coats that come in warm ivory or brown sepia colors. In addition to its large pair of ears, the breed is also noted for its beautiful set of eyes, which seem to have eyeliner. [2] Their almond-shaped eyes usually come in green, yellow, or hazel colors.
First-time owners are normally enchanted with the breed’s captivating personality. In effect, the cats end up being spoiled. On the other hand, Singapuras are best recognized for their affectionate nature. They are the type that love human companionship. In fact, they may content themselves sitting on the lap or shoulders of their owners. Due to their very affectionate nature, owning a Singapura feels like having an additional family member.
Although they are quiet most of the time, Singapuras are known for their gentle voices. Also, these lively and active cats usually remain playful throughout their lives. Inquisitive by nature, Singapura cats are the type that will try to investigate things that they find intriguing.
They prefer staying in high areas or anywhere where they can take a better view of their environment. They are also curious and extrovert, but not destructive. These intelligent cats also love to interact with humans.
Also, these cats are known to be “helpful” at home! In fact, they insist on helping everyone at home with whatever they are doing. They are also considered as “under the cover cats” because they love sleeping with their owners under the covers.
The Singapura is often considered to be a slow maturing breed. In fact, it takes between 15 and 24 months for the breed to reach its full maturity. In terms of weight, the males are significantly heavier than females. Males usually weigh between 6 and 8 pounds, while females weigh between 5 and 6 pounds. [3]
The breed’s typical litter is usually composed of 2 to 3 kittens. Occasionally, some litters are comprised of 4 kittens. Often regarded as excellent mothers, Singapuras are the type that nurse their kittens until a new litter is about to come. [4]
One of the most common health concerns encountered by breeders of Singapuras is the condition called uterine inertia. It is a condition where the cats suffer from a difficulty in expelling their fetus due to weakness and lack of vigor. When this condition occurs, the breed may need to undergo a Caesarean section.
Another health issue which this breed may suffer from is Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency. In the long run, this condition may lead to hemolytic anemia, which is characterized by symptoms such as weight loss, jaundice, poor coat quality, lack of appetite, diarrhea, and lethargy. [5]
References:
[1] https://www.cfainc.org/Breeds/BreedsSthruT/Singapura/SingapuraArticle%281996%29.aspx
[2] https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_867_2004-12-23.html
[3] https://web.archive.org/web/20120527201419/https://www.cfa.org/client/breedSingapura.aspx
[4] https://www.cfainc.org/Breeds/BreedsSthruT/Singapura/SingapuraArticle%282006%29.aspx
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singapura_cat