The gray color of a cat is considered a sign of its high origin. Pedigree representatives of the cat family have a uniform silver coat with a bluish undertone. These cats are symbols of well-being and harmony. Their color is compared to heavenly and watery shades. Owners of gray cats believe that they bring good luck to the home.
This color can be found in several cat breeds. Gray fur is recognized as one of the characteristics of the breed, and sometimes it is the main difference between one type of cat and another. What cat breeds have this unique and important trait?
Gray cat breeds
Gray color can be found in several breeds. These include:
- Persian cats;
- Angora cats;
- Russian Blues;
- Carthusian breed;
- Nibelung cats;
- Representatives of the Korat breed;
- British blues.
All these beautiful creatures can have a color from dark gray to ashen. Gray hair in a cat is not just an accident. This is the significant genetic pattern for which the original gene is responsible.
The most beautiful gray and smoky rocks
The gray or smoky color of a cat's coat is a symbol of thoroughbred and nobility.
Under the sun, cats' fur coats can be blue or charcoal gray, and at dusk they can have a silver and platinum color.
British shorthair cat
The appearance of the British shorthair from Foggy Albion amazes with its beauty at first sight. The average weight of cats is from 4 to 6 kg. Sometimes there are representatives of the British up to 8 kg in weight. A large physique does not prevent cats from being dexterous and graceful.
British shorthair cat
The pet's fur is soft to the touch and appearance, similar to plush fabric. The deep gray color was passed on to the British cats from their ancestor - the Persian. Eye color varies from yellow to red-orange.
The temperament of British cats is Nordic. They are calm, balanced and patient.
Otherwise, the British are excellent nannies, steadfastly enduring the games of small children. Representatives of this breed are attached to their owners, but do not show excessive intrusiveness.
Most often, handsome British Shorthairs are bred for home keeping. Pets easily get along with other household members and brothers.
Persian
Representatives of Persian cats are radically different from their gray counterparts. The appearance of pets cannot help but make you fall in love with yourself. The majority of the bodies are medium to large. The weight of cats reaches 8 kg, but on average 5-6. Kitties are a little smaller – 3-4 kg. The structure of the head and the shape of the muzzle divides Persians into 2 types. Classic - the nose is shortened, but wide and has an upturned position. Extreme - the muzzle is flat, slightly depressed, and the nose is snub-nosed and small.
Persian
The coat can be short or long. It is soft to the touch and shiny in appearance. The eyes are round and the color varies in a wide range of blue and orange tones.
The character of Persian cats is willful, but without malice. They are adapted only for living at home; they cannot stay in the wild for long. They get along well with children and are moderately playful. They get along well with other animals only if they are of the same age. They quickly become attached to the owner, choosing only one family member. They need attention, affection and care. By temperament they are not aggressive, not loud.
Persians are bred exclusively for keeping in an apartment or house. Despite their independence in behavior, they need comfort and coziness.
Russian Blue with green eyes
Representatives of the Russian Blue are highly valued both in Russia and abroad. The appearance of the pet is beautiful and graceful. The build is light, weight does not exceed 4-7 kg. The wool has a deep gray color with a blue tint. The length of the pile is small, but it covers the body with a dense layer and feels soft and elastic to the touch.
They get along well with other family members and children. Russian Blues are wary of strangers and do not like large crowds of people. Sometimes they can be stubborn.
Russian blue cat
The Russian Blue's eye color is predominantly green. It may change over time and the shade becomes close to gray.
Russian Blue cats are bred for indoor use, despite the fact that they enjoy spending time outside.
The cat breed is widespread on all continents.
Scottish fold
The Scottish Fold breed translated into Russian means Scottish Fold. This moment is their distinguishing feature of appearance. The physique of the pets is moderately muscular and strong. Weight varies from 4 to 6 kg. The coat is predominantly short and feels soft and plush to the touch.
At the same time, they do not have the habit of being too annoying with their attention. They are neat and clean. They easily find a common language with children and show patience with their games. They get along quickly and efficiently with dogs and other domestic animals.
Genetic properties of gray cats
In gray pets, the dominant black gene B is diluted with a light gene. The ratio of these two genes determines the color of the breed in general, and the animal in particular. In all gray representatives of the cat family, the black gene is not replaced, but is harmoniously supplemented with a light one. Under these circumstances, the location of all pigments changes and the color is distributed unevenly.
Professionals advise distinguishing between smoky specimens and pure gray animals. In smoky cats, the roots of the coat are always white, while in gray cats they are endowed with a strong dark pigment.
Carthusian cat
The nature and character of gray representatives
Males and cats of gray color are real dark cardinals among their kind. They are balanced, calm and dignified. They do not accept familiarity and prolonged active play. These animals forgive humans a lot, but only when they feel the love and care of their owner. If gray cats decide to take revenge, they “plan” it carefully and carry out vengeful actions with a time delay.
Nibelung
Gray breeds are suitable for those who value comfort and a measured life. Gray cats rarely play with children. They like to observe rather than participate. And with their behavior they resemble aristocrats.
Many breeders note the high intelligence of gray cats. Such animals love to be leaders, but they rule softly; if necessary, they prefer to retreat in order to maintain their own calm. Breeds with ash and steel tones will appeal to bachelors, elderly people, and those who lead a measured lifestyle.
Persian cat
This is one of the most popular and recognizable breeds. It was developed in the 16th century and quickly spread throughout the world. Of course, those Persians were very different from those we see now. But in those distant times the breed was just beginning to take shape. German and British breeders worked on its development.
Modern Persians have a massive body with a wide back and powerful chest. Under the large body there are thick short legs. The large round head with strong jaws has an upturned nose and rather small, widely set ears. The entire body of Persians is covered with long, luxurious hair. As for the color, it can be anything. The most common species are blue, red, tortoiseshell, cream and black. The first representative of this gray cat breed was registered in 1887. Since then, such animals have been actively used in breeding, and they have gained immense popularity.
Gray kitten in the house: adaptation period
Have you decided to get a purebred gray kitten? Then you should learn about how to prepare your home for his arrival. After all, a new family for any animal is very stressful. And its manifestations must be minimized. After purchasing, you need to ask the breeders for something with the animal’s native scent. It must be placed in the bed where the kitten will sleep. Familiar vibes will calm the little creature, he will be less afraid of the new environment.
All household chemicals, poisonous flowers, dangerous objects, wires, cosmetics, as well as valuables should be placed higher up. Otherwise, if the inquisitive gray kitten gets to them first, disaster may occur.
For a gray cat you need to prepare various accessories: scratching post, tray, bowls, toys. The sleeping place for the gray breed is chosen in a quiet and closed corner. Because many representatives of the gray color have a strong tendency towards solitude.
British blue
In families with children, these cats occupy a “middle” position in the hierarchy. They will not play excitingly with children for hours. And in case of any attempts to encroach on their borders, they retreat to a place inaccessible to others.
Representatives of gray cat breeds have a special weakness for their owners. They can form a strong empathic bond with their owners. And this union will last for many years. But if a gray cat does not accept someone, then, unfortunately, this is forever. Therefore, raising a gray kitten must be approached consciously. Punishments should be alternated evenly with rewards. And in some cases you will have to give in to your beloved pet.
Breeds of gray cats experience some difficulties when living in the same territory with other animals. These creatures get along well with other cats. But it’s difficult to tolerate dogs in your home.
Adult gray cats become attached to their owners with all their souls and rarely agree to change their owner. Therefore, they should be taken into the family as very young kittens.
Persian cat
Caring for breeds with gray coats
Owners of gray breeds should take care of their pets' diet in such a way that it contains a minimum amount of iodine. From an overabundance of this substance, gray wool begins to cast brown. And this circumstance may serve as a basis for culling the cat. Such an animal will not be allowed to participate in competitions.
The fur of such cats also fades in the sun. The color can also deteriorate due to high humidity in the room. Also, each breed has its own care requirements.
The Russian Blue cat does not require special care. It only needs to be bathed once every six months, but it should be combed more often. But here, once a week is enough. Gray cat hairs do not tolerate rough combs; it is better to choose a soft brush for combing.
Russian blue cat
The gray-haired Angora cat needs a bath every two to three months. Their coat is very long and should be brushed a couple of times a week to prevent clumps. Many representatives of this breed love water, so if you start getting used to water procedures from childhood, then there will be no problems in the future.
Gray Persians differ from other breeds in their more delicate health. You can bathe them every three weeks, but you will also have to carefully monitor the drying of the wool, otherwise the color will deteriorate.
British Blues are low maintenance. Frequent brushing is encouraged when keeping them. The “British” ones are washed twice a year. Otherwise, they are cared for in the same way as other cats.
The Carthusian or Charteuse cat has a thick and water-repellent undercoat. Because of it, the process of drying an animal turns into a real adventure. After bathing, Charteuses should be kept in a warm room for several days. And only then will their hairs dry completely.
The Korat is a breed especially revered in Thailand. These cats should not be bathed at all. If you still have to do this, you will need special shampoos and soft towels. Washing can cause bald spots on an elegant coat. And the wool itself will lose its protective properties.
Nibelung cats know how to keep their fur clean. If you bathe them frequently, the color of their coat will certainly deteriorate. Before bathing, the Nibelungen's ears are stuffed with cotton wool. The process itself is carried out only when obvious contamination occurs. The beauties are combed once a week.
All gray cats are naturally in good health. They rarely get sick and tolerate climate change and various changes in diet well. Their ears and eyes do not become overgrown with dirt and secretions. And gray wool, most often, is endowed with the ability to self-clean.
Scottish lop-eared
These animals are very similar to the British. They appeared due to a random mutation. The Scots have a small, powerful body with well-developed muscles and a broad chest. On the rounded head of these animals there are large eyes and ears curved forward and down. Their body is covered with thick, short and very soft hair. As for the color, it can be anything, including blue, red, lilac and chocolate.
Having figured out what breed a gray cat with unusual floppy ears is, you need to mention its character. Scots are very friendly and affectionate creatures that need constant attention. They quickly get used to their owners and do not require special care.
Cost of purebred gray cats
The price of purchasing a gray purebred kitten depends on its pedigree. Kittens from titled and eminent parents cost much more than ordinary representatives of the breed.
Let's take a closer look at the price of each breed:
- Persians. Kittens aged 1 to 4 months are estimated at 2000-3000 dollars. Adult representatives are much more expensive;
- Russian pigeon breed. These animals range in price from $1,200 and up;
- Angora cats. The cost of kittens of this breed can reach up to 600-700 dollars;
- Carthusian cats. These cats are valued by the international community at 500-1200 euros. Cats are much more expensive than cats;
- Nibelung. These kittens can be purchased for $1,000;
- British blue cats. The cost of one kitten can be $500 or more;
- Korat cats. The price of a rare breed starts at $500.
Kittens without documents are much cheaper than those whose pedigree is confirmed. Often, transporting an animal of an exclusive breed is estimated at the same cost as the cat itself. Famous and large nurseries charge higher prices than smaller businesses. Some gray kittens can be purchased second-hand through advertisements on the Internet.
British shorthair smoky cat
This is perhaps one of the most famous and beloved breeds in the post-Soviet space. It was officially registered in the 19th century by the British. British cats were presented .
British shorthair cat
Breed Features
In most cases, these are strong and robust cats. They grow to medium or large sizes. The maximum weight of the “British” is 8 kg (males) and 5 kg (females). Cats of this breed grow up to 5 years old.
Table 2. Distinctive features of the British Shorthair cat.
Character
You don’t need to be fooled by the cat’s cute “face.” His character and external data are absolute opposites. They are independent and proud, these are real aristocrats. They do not tolerate familiarity, they love their owner very much, although they experience separation from him quite easily. They love to play with children and are friends with other pets. They do not tolerate strangers and prefer to wait out their presence in the house in a quiet and secluded place. And, no matter how the guest tries to gain his trust, his aristocratic nature will never break. On the contrary, a persistent person risks being bitten.
"Brits" are friends with other pets
Care and health
British cats are quite healthy. Only occasionally they are bothered by gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and heart disease. Therefore, veterinarians recommend performing an ultrasound of the heart at least once a year in order to prevent serious illnesses. The “British” are also susceptible to claw fungus and hemophilia (excessive bleeding after surgery and injury). The maximum lifespan of British smokes is 15 years.
Attention! The “British” cat is recognized as the longest-living cat. The famous Poppy is listed in the Guinness Book of Records for having lived for...25 years! Kitty died in 2015.
"British" dogs require special care. If you don’t comb out their fur every day, then you are guaranteed to have a mess in the house in the form of clumps all over the furniture upholstery and carpets. Therefore, do not be lazy, especially during the molting period. Otherwise, a clean “British” will lick himself so intensively and often that his intestines will be clogged with hairs. Cleaning eyes and ears, as well as trimming claws, are standard procedures for the “British”.
British shorthair kittens
Important! Under no circumstances should you feed your British cat fish, dairy products or fatty meats.
How to feed a British cat correctly?
Gray cats and mysticism
Gray purebred cats are luckier than black ones. They are symbols of Lady Luck. Even the most superstitious people are not afraid to start them. After all, if a gray cat crossed your path, then you will certainly be lucky that day. The statement that all cats are gray in the dark arose due to the play of light and shadow at dusk. This saying also has another meaning. And it applies to ladies of Balzac's age.
Each cat color has not only a biological, but also a magical meaning. In the Nordic countries, these cats are considered sacred to the Scandinavian goddess Freya. It is customary to give gray cats to newlyweds as a sign of fidelity, peace and love.
Her character played a significant role in shaping the image of the gray cat. Among all the felines, it is the gray ones that have special pretentious and respectable manners. These cats are also characterized by increased resistance to stress and balance.
Gray cats have always been sung by poets and musicians. Many literary works, poems and poems have been written about them. Gray cats are living talismans that can get along with the Brownie and keep the house from misfortunes. Some owners of gray breeds really consider their pets to be guardian angels, protecting their sleep and warning them of troubles in advance.
The breeds of gray cats are much more diverse than described above. Almost every existing standard has hints of a gray tint. American Curls and Scottish Folds also have it. There are also outbred cats in the world who have unparalleled silver fur. And their character is very similar to the traits of various breeds of gray cats. Probably, the color gray leaves its genetic imprint on all cats without exception.
Gray cats and male cats are great individualists. They belong to that category of cats that are always on their own minds and love independence. But because of their delicate color, purebred cats are rarely allowed out for walks. And they have to adapt to life in city apartments and cottages. The adaptation period for such animals is much easier, because their Nordic temperament helps them.
British Shorthair
These animals will certainly interest those who want to learn about the breeds of gray cats. England is considered their homeland. It was there that serious work was carried out to create this breed. Among their ancestors are Persians and ordinary London cats that lived in city parks. In 1898, the British were recognized as a separate breed. The official standard was approved even later.
Outwardly, the British give the impression of massive and clumsy animals. The average weight of an adult is from 4 to 8 kilograms. But sometimes there are cats whose weight reaches 12 kg. These are powerful, muscular animals with a wide chest, short thick neck and heavy paws. On a rounded head with weighty cheeks and an interesting line of the mouth there are large golden eyes. The Briton's massive body is covered with thick short fur. The most common color of this breed is considered gray. But the standard allows other options.
