javanese
Curious, intelligent, talkative, playful
Overview
Origin
Canada
Life Span
12-16 years
Height
10"-14"
Weight
6-10 pounds
Group
Medium-sized long-haired
Price
$1,000-$1,500
History
You might think that the Javanese cat comes from the island of Java, but the truth is a bit less intriguing. While this breed does get its name from that lovely Pacific island, its origins are domestic in nature, and there really isn’t any mystery surrounding its family story.
The Javanese cat is a color variation on the Balinese cat, which in turn is the long-haired variety of Siamese. Javanese cat breeders create pairings that focus on producing kittens with red, tortoiseshell, lynx, and cream points.
The Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) is the only breed registry that makes the distinction between Balinese and Javanese cats. This lovely breed was granted official recognition in 1987.
Care
Nutrition
The Javanese cat has no special nutritional needs, however it's best to offer a high quality, high-protein diet that lists real meat or fish as the primary ingredient. Like many other Oriental cat breeds, Javanese can have long life spans. Feeding a food designed for the appropriate lifestage can help ensure good health throughout the years.
Grooming
The Javanese cat has a silky, long coat but as there is no undercoat to form mats, it does not require daily care. Brushing just once or twice per week will help this kitty maintain its stunning good looks.
Exercise
As natural athletes, Javanese cats don't require much encouragement to play. Simply set them up for success, and they are likely to do the rest – perhaps with a little bit of help from you. These cats love to play fetch, they adore feathered wands, and chasing laser beams is a favorite pastime.
Health
Most Javanese cats are very healthy, however genetic issues do occasionally arise including crossed eyes, arthritis, deafness, and hip dysplasia. Responsible breeders typically test to ensure that parents are healthy, however there is never a 100% guarantee that all individuals will be free from disease.
Breed Standard
Body
The body is sleek, muscular, and athletic, with an elegant, refined appearance.
Head
The head should display a long, tapering wedge. It should be of medium size, and in good proportion to the body. The wedge shape should extend from the nose to the tips of the ears and should form a triangle without a break at the whiskers. Male cats may display some jowls.
Eyes
The eyes should be almond shaped and of a medium-size. They should slant toward the nose creating harmonious lines with the ears and the wedge shape of the head.
Ears
The Javanese cat should have very large ears with wide bases and the distinct points.
Color
CFA defines 24 different Javanese cat colors in addition to the four recognized Balinese colors. Nose leather and paw pad colors should complement the coat color.
Coat
The coat is medium long, with just one layer of soft fur. The Javanese cat's coat is unique as it lies very close to the body while developing a distinctive plume on the tail.
Tail
The Javanese cat’s tail should be long and slim, tapering to a fine point. It should display elegant plumage.
Legs & Paws
The legs should be long and slim, with the hind legs slightly longer than the front legs. The paws should be small, dainty ovals.