There are approximately 100 breeds of cats officially recognized by the competent bodies in this area, however, all of them have the typical characteristics of felines: an independent character, a conservation of the natural hunting instinct, large eagerness to explore their surroundings, a great sense of hygiene and amazing physical agility.
Generally people who decide to welcome a cat into their home know that these are the main characteristics of these pets, but sometimes they look for a specific aesthetic that corresponds to a certain breed, which It is a completely respectable decision, although this time we will talk about other types of cats.
In this AnimalWised article we explain the advantages of having a mestizo cat.
What is a mongrel cat?
We can define the concept of a mestizo cat in different ways, perhaps the simplest thing is to say that a mestizo cat is a cat that does not correspond to a standard of a certain race, however, you should know that the mestizo cat has its own characteristics and history.
The mestizo cat is also known as the domestic cat or the common cat. It is a species that has developed from wild cats originating in Africa, such as the African wildcat (Felix Libyca) and the African jungle cat (Felix Chaus).
These cats came from Egypt to Europe and it was on this continent that they crossed with the European wildcat (Felix Silvestri), giving rise to the cat that is currently known as the mestizo cat, a medium-sized cat, great diversity of colors and a character as affectionate as it is intelligent.
The mestizo cat is the most common in homes, and it is not surprising, since its company provides numerous advantages, we will find out which ones below.
1. An affectionate cat like few others
Cats have an independent and exploratory character, it is true, but this should not be confused with the fact that they are unfriendly, although in this sense each breed has specific characteristics.
The mestizo cat is one of the most affectionate and attached cats to its human family. It is a cat with great communication skills,that eagerly awaits its owner's arrival home, bursting into purrs and displays of affection.
Obviously, it is a cat that needs a lot of company and affection in order to enjoy a full state of well-being.
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A mestizo cat does not suffer from inbreeding degeneration, that is, they do not present all those diseases that have a genetic origin and occur in some certain breeds, such as polycystic kidney disease.
The mongrel cat has been exposed to multiple crosses and this gives it genetics and a very resistant organism. In fact, it has been observed that these cats have a greater immune response.
Obviously, this does not imply that they do not need care, since all pets need to be cared for properly.
3. A unique and unrepeatable cat
Mongrel cats are animals of extraordinary beauty and they are not comparable to any other cat because they have characteristics that make themunique and unrepeatable.
In this sense, a cat of a certain breed will present more similarities with another cat that is considered to be of the same breed, on the other hand, if we compare two mestizo cats, one can be completely different from the other.
4. A very long-lived companion
Due precisely to their physical resistance and the absence of genetic diseases, mongrel cats are very long-lived, since they can live approximately 20 years.
The bond that is formed with a pet after so many years sharing the same home is truly amazing and it is very gratifying for the owner to be able to accompany their cat in each of its vital stages. Obviously, when a feline gets older, it must be pampered and given all the necessary care for an elderly cat.
5. Mixed cats encourage adoption
Some breeds of cats, such as exotic cats, are truly precious, however, they are not the typical breeds that can be found in an animal shelter, but those breeds that are available buying the animal.
On the other hand, mixed cats are often rejected for not having a pure breed, therefore it is very common for these precious felines remain waiting for some human family to welcome them.
Sharing your home with a mongrel cat will encourage the adoption of these incredible animals, affectionate, intelligent, resistant and of great beauty.