Cat breeds: Javanese cat characteristics and personality

Cat breeds: Javanese cat characteristics and personality

The Javanese Cat

The Javanese cat was developed in North America. This show cat is well recognized for being very intelligent, energetic, agile, and playful. 

Origins

In order to obtain the Javanese cat as we know it, Siamese, Colorpoint, and Balinese cats were set as a foundation. The Javanese cat actually is a longhaired variety of Siamese with colorpoint. Their name comes from Java, an island in Indonesia.  

The cat is in no way related to this island nor Indonesia. In fact, Helen Smith of MerryMews Cattery, who coined the name around 1950, had probably never even been to Indonesia. This name was given whimsically obeying the tradition of naming cats after Asian places. This breed is, genetically, a long-haired Oriental. 

Physical characteristics

Their long and silky coat comes in a variety of colors. They share characteristics with the Balinese cat, except they are longhairs with other colors. The Javanese cat is also different from the domestic cat from Java which has very short hair.  

Show cat fanciers refer to the Javanese cat as a colourpoint cat, meaning that they display rare colors such as white or red, or tabby and tortie patterns. 

Personality

The Javanese cat does share personalityi traits with the Siamese. These cats are very loving of their people. He loves to be a part of all home activities. When you sit, he will be on your lap and when you sleep, he will be on your bed.  They are not as vocal as the Siamese, but they certainly are as opinionated. 

This cat is agile, energetic, and highly intelligent. He will tell you what to do and expect you to do it.  You can take him out on a leash and will also play fetch with you. 

Caring for a Javanese cat

Since this cat is energetic and intelligent, you have to make sure you provide him playing time with mental challenges. This one is an underfoot cat so be careful when you are walking around the house. We do not recommend you to get a Javanese cat if you do not enjoy talking. This cat is very expressive and his vocal manners might drive you crazy unless you love him enough.

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