Javanese Cat
Cat Facts

The Javanese cat breed has caused much debate and confusion as to whether the cat is a new breed or a variety of the Balinese Cat. Its actual origin is unknown, but it is certainly not from Java. Governing bodies are divided, but many believe that it is an Oriental Semi-longhaired cat breed that was created during a controlled Balinese cat breeding program. This Semi- Longhaired, Oriental-type cat originated in the United States in the 1950's. Visit the Balinese cat profile for the full history behind the breed.

To provide some clarity, the information below provides details about the breed classification:

The United States of America: Cats in solid color points (i.e. Seal, Chocolate, Lilac and Blue) are recognized as Balinese cats, other colors and patterns are called, Javanese.

Europe: All non-pointed Balinese cat breeds are referred to as Javanese

Britain: Javanese is the name applied to Longhaired Orientals resulting from a breeding program to re-create the Angora.

New Zealand: All Balinese pointed patterns and colors are accepted, but all-over solid colors or those with spots and no points are called Javanese cats

The cat has a svelte, long, graceful and muscular body and a long, slender tail that tapers towards the tip. Yes, you guessed it, the legs are also long and slender with small oval paws. Its medium-sized head is described as triangular-shaped, with a long nose and long muzzle. Ears are large and the tips pointed. To complete the picture, the cat has almond-shaped eyes that are luminous green, except for the white and color points that have dark blue eyes. It has a semi-longhair coat and the hair is thin and silky. The hair on the tail plume, ruff and shoulders is slightly longer than the hair on the rest of the body.

General Cat Information

Would they suit a home with Children?

Yes, they get on well with children. Younger children need to be taught that cats like to be handled gently.

Are they Pet Friendly?

Yes, these cats get on well with other cats and dogs.

Temperament and Personality of the Javanese breed.

This domestic cat is entertaining, lively, active, curious and playful. They are extroverts who enjoy the company of their humans. These cats are loving, intelligent, inquisitive and very talkative.

Whatis the Ideal Home for the Javanese Cat?

They adapt well to apartment living. Like all cats, they do love the freedom of an enclosed, escape-proof, safe garden. They are excellent hunters and athletes. They prefer a home where they have companionship.

Cat Grooming and Cat Care

The Javanese cat is a medium maintenance cat breed. They are easier to groom than other longhaired cats as they do not have a wooly undercoat which is prone to matting. These cats need weekly grooming, so do visit our cat care pages to assist you with tips.

Cat Health Concerns

The Javanese cat is a healthy cat breed, but there are some hereditary health issues that include:

• nystagmus (involuntary eye movement)
• heart disease
• upper respiratory tract infections.

Pet owners should consider cat insurance for their cat.

Cat Nutrition

No special diet is required. They do need a well-balanced diet containing the correct proportions of nutrients. Cat food can be dry kibbles, semi-moist or canned food or even homemade raw cat food. Be sure to supply your cat with fresh water daily.

How much does this cat Weigh?

The average weight of this cat is between 2.5 - 5.0 kg (5.5 - 11 lbs)

What is the life span of Javanese cats?

Javanese cats have a medium life expectancy of between 9 and 15 years. You can extend your cat's life - find out more about this in our chapter on how long do cats live.

Related Cat Pages:

Balinese Cats for Sale - cat breeders

Balinese Cat - facts and information for potential Balinese cat owners

Balinese Cats - the history of the Balinese cat

Oriental Shorthair Cat Breeders - international breeder's directory

Oriental Shorthair Cat - information and cat facts

Cat Pictures Courtesy of:

© Preston Smith of www.prestonsmithphoto.com

Photo provided by Lorna Dawn Friemoth of NuDawnz Cattery GPNW NuDawnz California Sun Red lynx point