Gray cats: the nature and subtleties of care

Cats of gray, or rather, blue, traditionally attract the attention of man. This color with an esoteric, mysterious bloom is associated with moon silver. Restrained animal manners, mysterious character and look, extraordinary dignity, grace and tranquility - such an image leaves little to indifferent. Always and everywhere cats were treated with soul and reverence. These animals were welcome both in the palaces of kings and in the huts of commoners. Being excellent hunters of rodents, they not only pleased the eye and soul, but also brought a lot of good.

Her majesty, genetics, whimsically combining dominant and recessive genes, gives 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 stimulates the formation of gray color in animals.

The actual amount of black pigment is the same for both gray and darker cats. The difference lies in the specificity of the distribution of the pigment. So, in cats with black color, the pigmentation of hairs is uniform, but in gray the coloring elements are concentrated in the core of the hair. Refracted 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 a white color, while the black pigment is concentrated in the lower part of the hair. The reverse combinations are not excluded either - the roots get white pigmentation, and the top of the hair is black. This 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 in many countries have long tried to get a breed with a completely gray color and blue tint. A feature of this color is the absence of red (red) pigment. But gray or blue color also has warm shades, which are observed in animals with a dominant "red" gene. Call this color lilac.

Color details are essential. So, smoky color is associated with harmony, understanding and peace. The style of "minke" is characteristic of adventurers who bring change into the measured life of the host. Strange as it may seem, but the associative range corresponding to the color of a pet often becomes real, embodied in the character and behavior of animals. It is likely that the future, a conservatively-minded host, should not take a striped robber into the house.

Gray feline pets resemble dark cardinals - a calm, balanced character, displayed majestically and with dignity. They do not tolerate familiarity and long active games - “business is time, but fun is an hour”. They are somewhat ironic and indulgent. Feeling the master's love, much is forgiven him. But 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 - 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, soft leaders, often prone to a decent retreat, more like a condescending disregard.If only to keep the reputation and quiet life.

Cats with blue color are more aristocratic, this feature is manifested in them both externally and in behavior. They present themselves independently and proudly, like blood aristocrats. From a young age, their behavior is such as if there is no other status other than the “master” of the house for them. Since childhood, showing calmness and nobility, kittens set the appropriate level of behavior, which they never change. Notrarely, but briefly, playfulness arises in them, but there are also closed natures who constantly observe a certain distance set by them.

Solid blue color peculiar curious intellectuals, cats loyal owner. They like to sleep in the hands of the owner or relax next to the afternoon nap. But they are not afraid of loneliness either - they will always find something to their liking, avoiding pranks, while adequately preserving their image. Returning home, you will not find any confusion - not their lot.

The esoteric is in some way close to psychology. Therefore, referring to the fact that signs and beliefs, with their sources of observation and people's memory, reflect certain characteristics of the nature of animals, we will give several examples:

• gray-colored cats bring material well-being - the "money mascot";
• the cat is constantly sleeping on its back - in the future, you will not live in poverty;
• the cat curled up and covered her nose - to bad weather;
• “Gray cat - happy turn”, “gray cat - happy path”;
• gray cat attracts suitors 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);
• a green-eyed gray-cat with its aura provides protection for the house against adversity;
• blue animals have a positive effect on pregnant women and the fetus, eliminating nervous breakdowns and disorders;
• gray cat in the house - luck, moreover;
• cats with gray color - protected from damage and the evil eye;
• green-eyed, gray cats are excellent healers.

It is noteworthy that all kittens are born with blue eyes. The kitten acquires its own, “dear”, forming 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 conformity of eye color to a specific color is governed by the rules of exhibitions. For example, a Briton 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 the Russian blue, which can only be green eyes.

In accordance with the established codes of color and provides eye color - blue, green and yellow. Other colors may be in acromilanic cats, which are characterized by partial albinism.

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

• caramel;
• paricolor;
• tabby;
• solid;
• tortoiseshell.

Connoisseurs know that in the presence of hundreds of different breed organizations there are Only 3 "head" club, where pedigreed cats are registered:

• World FIFe - International Federation - recognizes 42 breeds;
• European WCF - The World Federation recognizes 70 breeds;
• American CFA - Association of cat lovers - recognizes 40 breeds.

The owners of the blue or smoky "apparel" are, for example, the breeds:

• Persian;
• Russian blue (longhair - nibelung)
• American Curl;
• fluffy Turkish angora;
• British longhair;
• Maine Coon;
• Siberian;
• exotic
• Kuril longhair bobtail;
• la perm longhair;
• American Longhair Bobtail;
• long-haired pixiob;
• Somali

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

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

The character of the Persians is spiteful, self-willed. The breed is completely domestic, it is not adapted to life in the wild. Animals moderately playful, friendly with children. They get used to the owner firmly, choosing only one object of adoration for themselves.

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

• Pewters (tin Persian);
• Persian tortoiseshell;
• Persian tabby;
• bluish-cream persian.

These subspecies are very similar to each other and can be easily confused.

Nibelung, with a poetic translation of the “child of the fog,” fully justifying its appearance. Medium-sized animals with moderately developed muscular system. Weight - up to 7 kg. Type of active, graceful. The cover is of a silvery shade, soft, thick, silky and gentle.

Natura balanced, friendly, sociable. Faithful Monogamous, unobtrusive and moderately playful. Eyes often green, but sometimes amber.

Breed recognized WCF. This is an unusual animal with twisted elf ears that look like miniature horns. Wool thick, silky. Curls are friendly, relatively unpretentious and independent. Perfectly adapt to the new conditions, unique games even at a respectable age. They amaze with their harmonious physique with an excellently developed muscular system. Weight - up to 5 kg.

Kittens are born with straight ears, which gradually grow as they mature. They have ears folded in moments of great stress, when frightened. "Companion cat" - so often called because of the appeasable and friendly attitude. Breed unobtrusive, accommodating and balanced. Eye color in a significant color range. Connoisseurs of the breed are ready to pay for it up to 20,000 rubles.

Breed with an ancient, rich history associated with the disappearance and new birth. The slim 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 cover. Gamma colors - from white to gray. Unique wool and elongated, bushy tail - a real decoration of the Angora.

They like to be sociable and balanced, moderately playful, like height, strongly attached to the owner. Willingly communicate with children. Appreciate the attention and affectionate attitude. The breed is easily trained in various tricks, able to hit the viewer with walking on its hind legs, the right reactions to the commands "voice" and "aport."

Often this is an unusual combination of bright green and rich blue hues. Breed 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 acquires a new one - a miracle!

Small size, grace, fragility and harmonious proportions of the body.Breed vigorous, mobile and extremely curious. Somalis are easy to train, quickly remembering the necessary commands. They love to be the center of attention, beautiful actors, obedient and unobtrusive. Remain playful even in adulthood.

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

A few words about the rocks worthy of special attention.

• British longhair (recognized by WCF, CFA) - one of the subspecies of the aboriginal 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, reaches weight up to 10 kg (muscle mass). Serious cat, with a wildish appearance and tassels on the ears.

• Siberian (recognized WCF, CFA) - breed with a long history and an extremely strong gene pool. Breed family, not loving idle. Good hunters, fearless and curious.

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

• Kuril longhair bobtail (recognized by FIFe). Life in harsh climatic conditions, in limited territories predetermined the hard and resistant nature of animals. The owner of the "hare" tail and an unusual body shape, is a national breed of Russia.

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

• American Longhair Bobtail (recognized by CFA) - impressive size, good-natured, tailless animal. Dislikes loneliness, sociable, including with children.

• Pixybob Longhair (short-tailed elf) - breed of short-legged cats with tassels on the ears. Gentle, friendly and patient creatures. They love movement, the game is extraordinary resourceful and adventurous.

The excellent immunity of gray cats does not exempt from the need for constant care of the animals. Long wool requires careful and careful care. It is important to monitor the cleanliness of the animal's ass, wash it at the first need.

When combing long wool, you can use starch, after lightly sprinkling them with wool. It helps to comb matted hair. Require special attention hind limbs, tummy and tail.

A mandatory, annual visit to the vet is shown where the pet's mouth, teeth and gums will be examined. Do not be amiss and self-examination of 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 will get used to it, and in the future it will not be difficult to carry out the procedure. Initially resorted to elementary mechanical cleaning with a piece of bandage. After some time, use a special brush and cat paste.

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

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

It is necessary to wash the animal daily, because saliva negatively affects the appearance of the covering, and the dirt accumulated in the eyes can lead to a number of eye diseases (conjunctivitis, mycoplasmosis, epiphora, tearing and third eyelid). Signs of these diseases and methods of their treatment is important to know.

Animal claws are trimmed carefully and carefully. At the same time in order not to damage the foot, cut off the most extreme part of the claw. During the procedure with the cat, it is desirable to gently communicate.

Any pet's unique coat loses its quality without proper care. With all its aristocracy and independence, your pet is largely dependent on you. Love, caress and care will return to you a hundredfold, good mood and good luck.

Cutting cats is not recommended because 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 cat breed of gray color, see the video below.