At first glance, a cat of this breed is no different in appearance and unpretentiousness from ordinary outbred domestic ones. However, upon closer acquaintance, the pet’s character (combining, at the same time, independence and love), its thinking and devotion to the owner will reveal the true breed of the cat from the first minutes.
Thoroughbred ancestors and the painstaking work of felinologists to develop a new breed made it possible to clearly determine the phenotype of the Australian Mist. The standard (reference representatives) of the breed are cats with the following characteristics:
- the body is strong, muscular, with a wide chest;
- paws – strong, but neat, proportional, with small toes;
- head – wedge-shaped, wide, with a flat forehead, proportional nose, wide chin, slightly sagging cheeks;
- eyes – large, almond-shaped, close-set, green or yellowish in color;
- neck – wide, muscular, of medium length;
- ears are medium in size, set wide apart, tips rounded;
- tail – movable, proportional, tapered to the tip.
The body structure of the representatives of the breed is proportional, there are no prominent parts.
The short coat of Australian Smoky cats is distinguished by density, softness, and the presence of down. The fur does not fit tightly. The back is colored more expressively, the belly is of a lighter tone.
The color of the Australian Mist consists of:
- main color;
- contrasting pattern;
- haze formed by incomplete dyeing of hairs (ticking).
Representatives of the breed receive full color and contrast at 2 years of age. Mists' coats are not prone to shedding.
Colors allowed according to the standard:
- blue;
- gold;
- caramel;
- brown;
- lilac;
- peach;
- chocolate.
The average weight of an Australian Smoky cat is 4 kg, and that of a male cat is 6 kg.
Interesting Facts
As a breed, the Australian Smoky cat has existed for a short time, but interesting facts about it have already appeared:
- Until 1998, the animals were known as the "spotted myst", but then they were renamed the Australian myst.
- The colors of the coat finally acquire brightness only by the time the cat turns 2 years old. Until this time, the Australian Smoke's coat may be quite pale.
- The word “mist” translated from English means “fog” and best characterizes the unusual color of cats.
Character traits
The breeders set out to breed an animal with a calm character, with whom a person would feel comfortable living. And it worked. Mists are absolutely problem-free. The mind helps the cat find something to do in any environment, so he can easily tolerate loneliness. The pet will not be offended if the owner leaves, and upon his return he will happily greet him. When the owner is busy with something, the cat will simply lie next to him and look at him, thus sharing the interests of the person. For a pet, this is communication and interaction. In the company of guests, the Australian smoky cat behaves with dignity: calm, reserved, friendly, and allows itself to be cuddled.
It should be noted that the character of representatives of this breed is docile and soft. Without being intrusive, they happily go to their knees if the owner calls. The pet will easily adapt to the routine of any person: he will be able to fall asleep and wake up together with the owner. Has a moderate degree of activity and playfulness.
With age, Australian cats become calmer, adore their owners, have a positive attitude towards children, and will never let their claws out because they are kind and patient. In addition, they get along well with other animals. They love to play with the ball and catch up. Having found some interesting object, they will move it to a secluded place.
The Australian cat can purr pleasantly and melodiously. But he rarely uses this ability, since it is easier for him to attract attention to himself with a touch or a gaze. Mist is ideal for busy people who spend a lot of time at work. The accommodating, flexible and friendly nature of this breed has no boundaries. These are excellent companions, equally attached to all family members.
Australian Mist or Australian Smoky Cat
The Australian mist or smoky cat rightfully bears the “Made in Australia” label. The fact is that it was first bred on this continent. These are beautiful, smart, playful cats with a very gentle character.
This is one of the few cat breeds that will suit any type of person. For example, families with children or teenagers, as they tolerate handling well and rarely get scratched.
They are easy to train to use a leash, rides in the car, or just walks down the street. Smart, they understand what their owner wants from them, and they also get along well with other pets.
Content Features
Australian Mists are classic domestic cats and real homebodies. They live comfortably even in a small apartment. They are not very active, so walking outside is not necessary. Although, if the owners wish, cats can be trained to a leash and occasionally taken out into the fresh air.
Kittens are usually litter box trained at an early age, so future owners should not have any problems. Animals quickly remember where the toilet is, a place to sleep and feed. For cats, you can buy a high scratching post. The pet will be able to play independently and at the same time sharpen its overgrown claws.
Description of appearance and physique
Burmilla cat - long-haired and short-haired cats
The smoky mist looks little different from the domestic cats familiar to people. The size of the Australian Mist cat is smaller than the size of a cat of the same breed. The weight of an average cat reaches 5 kg, males weigh up to 7 kg. The animals' bodies are muscular, slender, and proportional. Thin paws of medium length with small round phalanges have a characteristic color of dark stripes. The front legs of mysts are slightly shorter than the hind legs.
The powerful, fluffy, medium-length tail tapers at the tip. The soft, silky coat is thick and short, and does not lie tightly to the body. The head is rounded, the muzzle is obtuse-angled and wedge-shaped. The nose is wide, straight, short. There is a bend on the bridge of the nose, and a convex line on the forehead. Wide ears tilt forward. The iris of large, round, widely spaced eyes is colored in shades of green: from light to dark.
Smoky Australian cat with a characteristic green iris
Color
The main distinctive features of the color of the Australian Mist are: a) the main background, b) a dark pattern or so-called haze, c) sepia, which is formed due to the alternation of light and dark hairs of the background color. These can be clearly seen in the photo. Mists come in chocolate, brown, gold, lilac, caramel and peach colors. Interestingly, at birth, kittens look a little paler and have a reddish tint to their cheeks, ears and nose. Only by the age of two years do these cats fully develop their unique color. It is during this period that you should focus on such color parameters as:
- Rich coat color, but at the same time warm shades.
- The upper part of the animal's body is slightly darker than the lower part.
- It is curious that even with light color, adult cats still have a reddish tint on their cheeks, nose and ears.
- The spotted and marbled pattern, although it looks pale and slightly blurred, as if smoky, is still different from the rest against the main background.
- The spots can have any shape and size, and are located symmetrically on the back, sides and stomach.
- The marble pattern is characterized by dark symmetrical spots, in which there are small light inclusions.
Character and temperament
The Australian Mist has a good-natured and easy-going disposition. A sociable and patient cat does not show aggression towards strangers and does not impose its company on anyone. Although the pet needs the owner's attention, it easily tolerates loneliness and finds something to do in the absence of its owners.
Breed and children
The Australian Smoky Cat will be a great friend for a child. She will play with the children until they themselves get bored with this activity. Well, if the animal’s patience runs out earlier, the Australian Mist will not release its claws, but will simply leave.
Breed and other animals
This peaceful and sociable cat does not have a developed hunting instinct and easily makes contact. The non-conflict nature of the Australian Mist allows him to easily get along under the same roof with various pets, including dogs, birds and ornamental rodents.
Character
The goal of the breeders was to create a domestic cat for family keeping that did not require much trouble. The Australian Mist is very affectionate, loving, and attached to his owners. It is suitable for both young and old owners, including families with children of any age.
Having inherited the good disposition of the Burmese breed, the cat gets along well with other pets and gets along with dogs. Easily meets strangers.
The Australian mystic is intelligent and quick-witted. He is easy to train and easily remembers simple commands. He quickly gets used to walking on a leash and does not need long walks. Enjoys traveling in a car.
Australian Mist cats do well in city apartments, even small ones. By nature, cats are homebodies; some individuals live their entire lives without leaving the house. Some breeders believe that it is better not to let the Australian Smoky cat go outside at all. Animals become stressed by unfamiliar objects and car noise, which reduces their life expectancy. Obviously, this is due to the recommendations of Australian colleagues; animal walking is limited in Australia.
Smoky cat kittens are active and playful. With age, the character of the animal changes. The pet becomes calm, balanced, and prone to laziness. The cat does not need physical activity and freedom; he feels comfortable in a confined space.
The Australian Mist considers himself a member of the family and loves to be close to his owner and watch him. While the owner is busy, the cat will wait patiently, spend time half asleep or playing cat games. The cat subtly senses the mood of the owner: when he is not in the mood, he becomes invisible.
The Australian Mist is especially gentle with small children. He patiently puts up with children's pranks and can look after the child. The cat will never allow itself to let out its claws, scratch or bite the baby. When his patience runs out, he simply gets up and leaves.
Despite their love for their owners, mysts easily tolerate loneliness. When the owner goes to work, the animal sleeps most of the day. It is difficult to perceive a change in familiar surroundings. When leaving for a long time, it is better not to give the cat to friends for a while, but ask them to visit the pet occasionally.
How to choose the right kitten
It is better to buy Australian Mist from a specialized nursery. This is the only way to be sure that the animal will have all the necessary documents. You also need to pay attention to the appearance and behavior of the kids.
Healthy Australian Mist kittens have clear skin, clear eyes, soft bellies and an excellent appetite. They do not show fear or aggression and actively play among themselves.
Kitten care
Caring for a little Australian Mist is no more difficult than caring for any other kitten. Before picking up a pet from the breeder, purchase for it:
- bed or house;
- bowls for food and water;
- tray and filler;
- toys;
- carrying bag;
- scratching post;
- hygienic cosmetics;
- grooming tools.
After moving to a new home, the Australian Smoky kitten is given time to adapt and is immediately shown places where it can eat, sleep and relieve itself.
Tips for purchasing a kitten
You should buy mist from a trusted and reliable seller, preferably from a professional who specializes in breeding cats of this breed. This will give certain guarantees and will not allow you to buy a half-breed.
Animals purchased from the nursery are well-groomed, vaccinated and accustomed to proper feeding and litter box. In Russia, the purebred Australian Mist breed is rare, and its price is very high. When purchasing, you must make sure that you have a pedigree and vaccination .
Owners should remember that if the Australian Mist is surrounded by care and love, there is no doubt that a faithful and true friend will settle in the house.
Character of the Australian Mist
The individual characteristics of the breed make the cat completely domestic. He feels great indoors and doesn't really want to go outside. Tolerant, friendly, does not show aggression. He tolerates being squeezed by small children, asks to be held, and loves attention to himself. The kitten of the Australian Mist breed is active, but over time the temperament fades somewhat. An adult cat is a calm, important person. The only drawback of the Australian Mist breed is its excessive attachment to its owner. The cat experiences loneliness hard, gets bored, and rejoices in every possible way at the sight of its beloved owner. The kitten becomes more and more attached to children.
Representatives of the Australian Mist breed are a child’s best friend. No matter what games children play with them, cats do not show their claws, do not scratch, or bite. They get along well with other pets. Australian mist is an ideal option for a large family with children, for too busy people.
Care and maintenance
The Australian Mist is an unpretentious cat that easily adapts to different conditions. You can keep this breed even in a small city apartment. And caring for the Australian Smoky cat comes down to balanced feeding and hygiene.
Hygiene procedures
In order for the Australian mist to look aesthetically pleasing, he is taught simple manipulations from an early age:
- A cat's claws are worn down naturally, but if necessary, they can be carefully shortened with a nail clipper.
- The Australian Smoky cat's teeth are brushed weekly with a special brush containing a small amount of toothpaste that does not foam. Thanks to this, the bridge will not develop stone or other dental problems.
- The ears and eyes of a cat of this breed are periodically inspected for unusual discharge and wiped with a moistened cotton pad or a clean cloth soaked in boiled water.
Grooming
The Australian Smoky cat's short coat does not require frequent washing. They bathe the mist 2-3 times a year. Bath procedures are carried out in a warm room, away from drafts. To wash pets, use high-quality shampoo for short-haired cats.
Brush representatives of the breed once a week using a rubber brush or gloves with silicone growths. During the molting period, the procedure is carried out more often.
Tray
The Australian Smoky cat is extremely clean and quickly learns to go to the toilet in one place. Since it is a medium-sized breed, it is better to purchase a deep or closed tray for it. There are no special requirements for the filler. The main thing is that it fulfills its functions.
In the 80s In the last century, the world learned about the appearance of a new breed of cats - Australian Mists. These rare and expensive animals were obtained as a result of painstaking selection work. Representatives of the breed harmoniously combine beauty, grace, cheerfulness, sociability and devotion.
Origin story of the Australian myst
The founder of the new cat breed was Australian resident Gertrude Strayed. She set out to breed animals that would meet several parameters: they were loyal to their owners, loved to play with small children, did not require complex care, were able to live without a person for some time, and were beautiful and graceful. The breeding program included animals of the Abyssinian and Burmese breeds, as well as outbred short-haired domestic cats. The work to develop a new breed lasted for 10 years. During this time, parents were carefully selected for mating, successful and unsuccessful crossing attempts were analyzed, and the results were recorded (descriptions of the resulting colors, characters, growth rates and maturation of the offspring). As a result, Gertrude Strayd developed a breed that was originally called the Spotted Mist. Cats were distinguished by their endurance, good health and elegant beauty. Their short fur had a smoky "patina" and was covered in spots reminiscent of leopard prints. Over time, among the representatives of the breed, individuals with a marbled color appeared, so they decided to rename the breed and assigned the official name Australian Mist. In many sources of information on cat care, the new breed is often called the Australian Smoky. Officially, the history of the origin of the breed dates back to 1986, when the first offspring of spotted kittens were obtained. But only since 2009, representatives of the breed began to appear at European exhibitions. They did not take part in competitions, but gained a lot of fans. Now the main breeding work is carried out in Australia, but several nurseries located on other continents have been trained and received a license to breed Australian cats.
Description of appearance
The appearance of purebred smoky cats must correspond to the breed standard: - medium size; - graceful body; - rounded chest; - muscular neck; - well-developed, strong paws with small, neat pads; - the front legs are much shorter than the hind legs; - long and movable tail is well furred; - rectangular body.
Mists do not look massive, but create the impression of light and graceful animals. The weight of adults varies from 4 to 7 kg, with females growing smaller than males.
Head and body
The Australian Mists' triangular head resembles an upside-down pear. The ears are moderately large and wide at the base and have a slight forward slope. Features of the breed include large, almond-shaped, wide-set eyes. Their color can be bright blue, light blue or deep green. Dark brown, amber or bright yellow eyes are disqualifying.
Coat and color
The shiny and short fur of Australian cats is unevenly colored. From their Abyssinian ancestors they received a characteristic smoky shade of coat, which formed the basis of the official name of the breed. Representatives of the breed can have different types of colors: - chocolate; - lilac; - brown; - caramel; - gold; - peach; - blue; - faun.
Round spots of different sizes or a marble pattern are symmetrically located throughout the body. The coat on the lower part of the body is several tones lighter than the color of the back. The coloring of kittens may look pale, but by the age of 2 years, when the pet is fully formed, it will become more saturated. Smoky cats have a loose, downy undercoat that almost completely sheds in the warmer months.
Cat character
Australian Mists are loyal to their owner and his family members. They will follow on his heels and participate in all matters. Being close to a person is the greatest joy for representatives of the breed. You can safely leave cats with a smoky color to play with small children and not worry about their safety: the animal will not release its claws unnecessarily, and will not scratch or bite the child.
The character and behavior of mystics can be described in a few words: - calm; - balanced; - devotees; - smart; - affectionate; - cheerful; - friendly; - sociable, but not intrusive; - patient; - independent.
These qualities make Australian cats good companions for both single people and large families. If the house already has cats or dogs of non-aggressive breeds, an exotic pet will get along well with them.
Maintenance and care of the Australian Mist
Australian Smoke cats are easy to care for. The animals are highly clean, and their short fur hardly sheds or gets dirty. To remove dead hairs, your pet needs to be combed periodically, but you won’t have to do this more than 1-2 times a week. Your four-legged friend should be taught to use water procedures from childhood: wash his paws after each walk and bathe him as needed with a special shampoo for cats. Shorthaired Mists are easy to care for and rarely cause allergies in their owners. They are able to do without a person for some time, but prolonged loneliness can cause suffering and depression in the pet. People who work outside the home from morning to evening need to think carefully before getting a smoky kitten. The area of the home where the four-legged friend will live does not matter much: he will find entertainment in both a spacious house and a small apartment. The lack of free space can be compensated for by regular walks or active games. Animals should only be taken outside on a leash or in a harness, otherwise in excitement they can run far away or climb a tall tree. As soon as a kitten appears in the house, you need to purchase a scratching post and several different toys. Australian cats quickly become accustomed to the litter box, which makes them problem-free in terms of hygiene.
Feeding
The nutrition of misters should include natural products and dry food. Kittens need to be accustomed to different foods from the age of 2-3 months: when feeding, add chicken meat, lean beef, boiled boneless fish, cottage cheese, kefir, and offal to cereal porridges with milk. These same products should be given to adult cats, adding a small amount of dry food to natural food. It is recommended to feed small kittens three times a day, and from the age of 12 months switch to two meals a day. It is better to coordinate the diet and feeding regime with a veterinarian or breeder. He will assess the physical development and health of your four-legged friend and give advice on the daily food consumption rate.
Health
The Australian smoky cat is the envy of other members of the cat family. Animals of this breed have good immunity and good health.
Diseases and life expectancy
The Australian Mist is a long-lived cat. The average life expectancy is 15-18 years, but some individuals were able to live 25 years, maintaining a lively mind and intelligence until their last days. With proper care, they practically do not get sick. They do not have characteristic diseases that arise from gene mutations and are inherited. The only threat to the health of pets is the tendency to obesity. From the age of 2, smoky cats become less active and lose interest in outdoor games and long walks. To prevent excess weight gain and the development of associated pathologies (diabetes, heart disease), you need to control the portion size and not exceed the recommended amount. Problems with infection by parasites and helminths will not arise if you regularly take your pet to the veterinarian and carry out routine vaccinations. Problems with possible poisoning are not terrible, since Australians do not approach food that is stale or unusual for them.
How much does Australian mist cost?
To buy a purebred kitten, you will have to travel to Australia, Great Britain, the USA or European countries where they breed the Australian Mist cat breed. In Russia and neighboring countries there are no nurseries licensed to breed smoky beauties yet. Any offers from private individuals should be taken as an attempt at fraud.
Choice of kitten and price
The starting price of Australian cats starts from 27-54 thousand rubles. The price depends on the gender, color and class of the kitten (pet, breed, show). In Western countries, the demand for animals of this breed is quite high, despite the fact that buying a spotted or marbled mist is not a cheap pleasure.
What should you pay attention to?
When purchasing a purebred animal, you must require a registration card, which serves as an analogue of a cat's passport (pedigree). The card must indicate: - nickname; - Date of Birth; - floor; - color; — names, titles and pedigree numbers of the kitten’s parents; — contact details of the nursery or breeder; - deviations from the standard (almost all animals have defects, but they are not a defect).
Kittens that are under 10-12 months old cannot have a pedigree. If the breeder provides a ready-made cat passport, this should alert you and make you refuse to purchase. Along with the registration card, the breeder must issue a veterinary book in which all vaccinations are recorded. Even if everything is in order with the documents, you need to carefully examine the animal (eyes, nose, ears). Lethargy, aggression, discharge from the eyes or nose, accumulations of wax in the ears, bald spots on the fur - these signs indicate that the animal’s health is not all right. It is not worth adopting such a kitten, because not everyone is able to see the suffering of a pet and invest money in long-term and expensive treatment.
Conclusions about the breed
Australian smoky cats are still a rarity in the homes of our compatriots, which is explained by the relatively recent emergence of the breed and the lack of certified nurseries in Russia. This affectionate, calm and devoted animal has mystical beauty and an easy-going character. Smoky cats of Australian origin are completely devoid of aggression, so they can be kept in families with small children and other pets.
Character and psychology of the breed
Mist is a wonderful companion for domestic, family people who cannot spend whole days at home, but want to have a devoted pet. A cat of this breed is very attached to household members and shows unlimited amounts of affection and tenderness to everyone who reciprocates her feelings. Perfectly complements an elderly couple, a family with children, pets and just single people.
Owners of the breed note that the cat loves to spend time on the shoulders of the owner
This is a smart, well-developed cat who communicates well, understands and even carries out small commands from his owner. Mists love walks, are happy to be on a leash and travel in public transport.
Australian breeders are attached to the opinion that it will be better if the mist is kept only at home, since street noise has a negative impact on the psychological health of the animal. This is dictated by the fact that in Australia the free range of animals is strictly prohibited. The future owner can follow this rule and this is also the best option for the pet, since by their nature mysts are homebodies. Or you can provide a safe walk in a quiet, deserted place and allow the animal to fully enjoy nature and active games in the fresh air.
Mists love walks, but it is better to walk in a quiet place
In this case, it is worth mentioning that mysts are extremely playful, especially at a young age. As they get older, they inherit rigor and restraint, can easily remain alone and will find entertainment in a confined space.
In the absence of the owner or family members, it will be enough to leave toys for the mist - he will find entertainment for himself
The Mist cat is very attached to its owner. The owners note that the cat is present almost every minute, but at the same time he is absolutely unobtrusive. He follows his owner like a gray smoke and waits patiently until all business is completed and he can become the object of care and games. The mist is especially patient with children: such a pet can even look after children and will never bite or scratch a baby. Having lost patience in extreme cases, the animal will simply leave the premises and find a more suitable place.
Mist is a sociable pet, he gets along well with his own kind and other pets
Finally, the most distinctive character trait of the mystic is that he easily perceives loneliness. He will faithfully wait for his owner from a business trip or work, and will spend most of the wait in his sleep.
Health and nutrition
The diet of the main cat must include premium dry food, but this is not enough, since cats of this breed love to eat tasty food and the pet will quickly get tired of meat pads. It will be ideal if dry food is mixed into the meat broth - this is useful for the digestion of the mist and will not allow the development of urolithiasis in later life. The change of food is carried out very carefully, as pets have a tendency to diarrhea, which goes away within two days.
Mists have taste preferences and love to eat, so don’t forget to dilute your pet’s diet with healthy and natural food
From natural foods add to the diet:
- Boiled chicken or beef
- Lean fish once a week
- Dairy products
Cats of this breed gain weight very quickly, so from childhood they are taught a balanced and proper diet. Feeding occurs 2 times a day, and the volume of food is calculated at approximately 80 kcal per 1 kg of weight. Kittens are fed 3 times a day with a mixture of milk porridge and minced chicken.
Health rarely fails the Mist, but they are prone to obesity and a sedentary lifestyle
In general, the Australian Mist has excellent health, but has a tendency to become obese. For this reason, the long-term health of the animal is maintained by a proper diet, which eliminates the premature development of diseases and complications in the form of urolithiasis, heart problems and endocrine system disorders. The lifespan of the Australian Mist is 15-17 years, but in some cases the animals live up to 20 and 25 years.
Feeding the cat
The Australian Mist has an excellent appetite and eats both dry and natural food equally well. Each of these types of food has its own advantages, and the owner independently decides what to feed his pet.
Complete diet
When feeding an Australian Smoky cat with natural food, the menu is designed so that animal protein sources predominate in it. It could be chicken breast, veal, turkey or rabbit.
The mist is also given:
- offal;
- sea fish;
- eggs;
- porridge cooked in water;
- vegetables;
- dairy products.
The Australian Smoky cat must not be given fresh milk, pork, chocolate or any leftover food from the owner's table.
When feeding dry food, premium or super-premium products are selected for your pet, which do not contain dyes, soy or other dubious additives. The Australian Smoky cat is best suited for:
- Arden Grange;
- Hills;
- Royal Canin;
- Acana.
Feeding frequency
An Australian Smoky kitten eats more often than adult representatives of the breed. Therefore, the frequency of feeding depends on the age of the animal:
- up to 4 months – 6 times a day;
- 4-5 months – 5 times a day;
- 5-9 months – 4 times a day;
- 9-12 months – 3 times a day.
From the age of one year, the Australian Mist is transferred to a double feeding regimen.
Vitamins and minerals
A smoky cat that eats natural food may experience micronutrient deficiencies. To make up for this deficiency, the mist is given special fertilizers 2 times a year. But in order not to harm the pet, before introducing vitamin and mineral supplements into the diet, the animal is shown to a veterinarian.
History of the origin of the breed
The Australian Smoke cat is an amazing breed. From the name it is immediately clear where it came from. The Australian Smoky was bred in Australia, in the city of Sydney in the early 80s of the last century. This breed was born thanks to many years of crossing Abyssinians with Burmese and domestic shorthair cats. The goal of the breeders was to create a cat with a fit physique and light skeleton like the Burmese, but with a spotted “wild” color similar to a leopard. For this purpose, a special selection program was even developed, and crossing was carried out for five years - since 1975. The first name of this breed was Spotted Smoky, and it was only in 1998 that they began to call it the Australian Smoky. The founder of the breed is considered to be Australian Trudy Strid. Thanks to her efforts, the Australian Smoky cat gained recognition as an independent breed. This breed is small in number even today, and is not very popular outside Australia. If you want to have this beauty at home, you will have to fork out a lot of money.
Health and nutrition
She treats food selectively and will never eat anything she doesn’t like. Changes in diet are painful. If your pet is on industrial food, then you should give preference to mixtures of at least premium class for animals with sensitive digestion (preferably super premium and holistic).
At the same time, he will never refuse a delicacy in the form of chicken breast or quality pate.
The breed is not prone to hereditary and chronic diseases. But the love of tasty food can lead to excess weight gain and obesity with age. Therefore, the main thing for this pet is a complete and balanced diet.
In addition, do not forget about regular deworming, treatment for external parasites and annual vaccination against known feline infections and rabies.
Education and physical activity
The smoky cat is endowed with high intelligence and good memory. An intelligent and smart animal is easy to train. The pet quickly learns the rules of behavior in the house and is able to perform simple tricks.
On a note. Before starting to play with something, the Australian Smoky will look questioningly at the owner, as if asking permission.
Representatives of this breed do not require mandatory walks and physical activity. Therefore, they do not need to build bulky gaming complexes. For a smoky cat, it is much more important to equip a small, comfortable house and buy a stuffed animal or a ball of medium diameter.
Psychological picture
Australian smoky cats are one of the friendliest breeds known to modern felinology. They are sociable, almost not touchy and very patient. These cats are trusting and are very curious about new people in the house. They are easygoing, have a good disposition and love to play with their owners. They love to get involved in the games of small children, they can steal their little owner’s favorite toy, but they will never scratch the baby. In general, these cats very rarely show their claws; they have a balanced character and are not inclined to show aggression either towards people or towards other pets. Australian mystics are lovers of staying at home and sleeping in a cozy place. If the owner has left for a long time, they will tolerate this fact well; they are self-sufficient, although they become attached to people.
Vaccinations and antiparasitic treatment
Although the Australian Mist has good health and good heredity, he is not immune to viral diseases. To protect a smoky cat from panleukopenia, calcivirosis and rhinotracheitis, it must be vaccinated with a complex drug. The first vaccination is given to the animal at the age of 7-8 weeks. At 11-12 weeks it is repeated, but with an anti-rabies component. Subsequently, the Australian Mist is vaccinated annually.
To prevent the cat from being bothered by parasites, it is regularly treated for fleas and helminths. Antihelminthic tablets are given to Mist 2 times a year with mandatory repetition after 10-14 days. Protect your smoky cat from fleas with drops, shampoos or anti-parasitic collars.
Pros and cons of the breed
Like any other cat breed, the Australian Mist has both positive and negative traits.
| Advantages | Flaws |
| No genetic diseases | Fear of water and dislike of bath procedures |
| Good tolerance of loneliness | Rarity of the breed |
| Friendly and communicative character |
The Australian Mist is an attractive cat with an unusual color and easy-going disposition. A sociable and playful disposition, combined with high adaptability and the ability to remain calmly alone, make him an ideal option for busy city dwellers dreaming of a pet.
Care
Australian Mist cats are able to take care of themselves. Short hair does not cause much difficulty. It does not crumple, does not crumble. It is enough to go over it with a comb once a week. Bathing should be done as needed. It is enough to do this once a month. The kitten gets accustomed to the litter box quickly. The Australian Mist cat is a caring mother. She takes care of the beauty of her children herself. He can spend hours licking their fur and teaching them to be clean. There is a minimum of effort on the part of the owner. Occasionally clean the ears, remove dirt from the eyes that the cat could not cope with on his own.
Story
In 1975, breeder Gertrude Stride from Sydney (Australia) began breeding the first local cat breed. Her goal was to obtain pets that combine the characteristics of the breeds:
- Burmansky - in terms of appearance and love;
- Abyssinian - independence and intelligence;
- Siamese - because of the shape of the eyes and gaze;
- Ordinary domestic cats - with excellent endurance, excellent health, ease of care, short hair.
As a result of many years of selection work, Gertrude managed to get the desired cat of spotted (and then marbled) color.
In 1986, the breed was officially registered and allowed to participate in exhibitions.
A little history of the breed
In the mid-50s of the 20th century, breeders on every continent began to develop new breeds of cats. Australia also decided to participate in this process. Truda Strayed outlined the standard for the future breed in 1977, and then tried to implement her project. To get the desired appearance, she crossed Abyssinian, Burmese and barn cats.
The genes of the Burmese breed, in her opinion, should have provided a variety of colors, the desired physique and a loving nature. The Abyssinian cat was needed because it has dark and light stripes arranged alternately, and also for its cheerful character. The yard cats were supposed to add a pattern to the fur pattern.
The success of such selection became noticeable only ten years later. When there were a sufficient number of animals of the experimental breed, they began to be crossed with each other. In 1986, the Australian Smoky cat breed or the Australian Spotted Mist, which has a smoky color with spots of different shades, was registered within Australia. And in 1998, the World Cat Organization gave the breed international registration, and with it recognition at the world level. The breed was renamed "Australian Mist".
