Top 10 Famous Cat Breeds in China

The top 10 famous cat breeds in China include the Leopard Cat, Li Hua Cat, Jianzhou Cat, Orange Cat, Calico Cat, Lion Cat, Yellow Cat, Cow Cat, Black Cat (Xuan Cat), and Clouded Leopard Cat. These cats are often collectively referred to as Chinese indigenous cats.

1. Leopard Cat

The Leopard Cat, also known as the 'Money Cat' due to its coin-like spots, resembles a domestic cat in size. While suitable as a pet, its beautiful fur has led to extensive poaching in the wild, causing a decline in population. It is now a protected species.

2. Li Hua Cat

The Li Hua Cat is a robust, large-sized breed with beautiful tabby markings. The breed standard for the Li Hua Cat was the first standard for a purebred cat developed in China.

3. Jianzhou Cat

The Jianzhou Cat is named after Jianzhou in Sichuan province. It gained fame during the Ming and Qing dynasties as one of the four special tributes to the emperor. These cats vary in coat color and are known for their agility, strong build, and excellent hunting skills. Their unique characteristics contribute to their popularity among pet lovers.

4. Orange Cat

The Orange Cat, also referred to as a Ginger Cat, is a common coat color among domestic cats. They typically have a solid orange or orange-and-white coat. Besides their tendency to overeat and gain weight, requiring owners to carefully control their diet, Orange Cats are known for their lively, playful, and affectionate nature.

5. Calico Cat

A Calico Cat typically has a coat with black, red or orange, and white colors. A defining feature is that nearly all Calico Cats are female. Their adorable appearance and affectionate nature make them a favorite among pet enthusiasts.

6. Lion Cat

The Linqing Lion Cat, originating from Linqing City in Shandong province, is known for its unique features. Many have heterochromia, with one blue eye and one yellow eye, earning them the nickname 'Odd-Eyed Lion Cat'. Their unique appearance, gentle temperament, and affectionate nature make them highly sought-after and expensive pets in the market.

7. Yellow Cat

The Yellow Cat is a widespread indigenous Chinese breed named for its yellow coat. Some individuals exhibit tabby-like markings similar to tigers and are sometimes called 'Tiger Cats.' They come in both short and long-haired varieties.

8. Cow Cat

The Cow Cat, named for its black and white markings resembling a cow, is a common domestic cat breed in China. They are relatively abundant and, due to their mixed lineage, are not very expensive, making them popular family pets.

9. Black Cat (Xuan Cat)

The Xuan Cat, historically considered a spiritual cat capable of warding off evil, has faced misconceptions due to depictions in modern media as bringers of bad luck. However, these superstitions are gradually disappearing, and Xuan Cats are now increasingly welcomed into homes as beloved pets. Their mysterious beauty and unique charm make them a compelling choice for cat lovers.

10. Clouded Leopard Cat

The Clouded Leopard Cat, a subspecies of the marbled cat, is distinguished by its marbled coat pattern. They are more elongated compared to domestic cats and display a variety of colors from dark gray to light yellowish-gray to reddish-brown. Their striking appearance makes them a captivating species, but unfortunately, they are also threatened by over-hunting due to their beautiful fur, resulting in their protected status.Bonus resource:Pet Knowledge